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Boys and Girls Club of America President, CEO visits Keesler

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  • 81st Force Support Squadron
KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  New President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Jim Clark, visited the Keesler Youth Programs Oct. 9. While touring traditional Boys & Girls Clubs along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Mr. Clark wanted to see a military club to gain understanding of any issues and strengthen the national organization's support for military youth and families.

Youth center staff, 81st Force Support Squadron leadership, parents and Keesler's "Youth of the Year" winner, Kevin Baker, greeted Mr. Clark and took him on a short tour of the center.

"We had the opportunity to highlight some of the amazing work happening within military Youth Programs, our state and also to show our support of his new appointment," said Ann Smith, youth programs director.

Keesler Youth Programs, as well as Air Force and other military services youth programs, have been affiliated with Boys & Girls Clubs for more than 20 years. "Our military clubs are fortunate to benefit from B&GCA's youth development programs, staff training, special events for youth and some funding," said Smith. Many youth programs offered at Keesler are based on B&GCA resources; programs such as "Power Hour" for homework assistance, "Keystone" and "Torch Clubs" teaching leadership, fine arts and national photography contests and a fitness, health and nutrition program.

Boys and Girls Clubs of America is the nation's largest youth development organization with a primary focus on creating great futures for young people. Accompanying Mr. Clark were Joe Ethier, regional service director, Southeast Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and Lorraine E. Orr, senior vice president, Field Services Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

The Air Force is working to maintain and strengthen the partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America at every level into the future.
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