Through Charles' Eyes: The Magic of Summer at the Boys & Girls Club

Posted 7/2/26 Holly Bly

One of my favorite parts of my job is sitting down with Club kids and simply asking them about their day.

This week I had the chance to chat with Charles, who will be starting kindergarten this fall. Charles is spending the week in our cooking program, where he and his friends have been learning new recipes, trying new foods, and building confidence in the kitchen.

When I asked him what his favorite thing they'd made so far was, he didn't hesitate:

"Eating the cupcake!"

It was such a perfect reminder that sometimes the smallest moments create the biggest memories.

Charles also shared that one of his favorite places at the Club is the Learning Center, where he loves spending time on the computers. Like so many of our Club kids, he enjoys having opportunities to learn, play, and explore in ways that make each day exciting.

When I asked what he wished other people knew about the Boys & Girls Club, his answer was simple:

"The field trips. Definitely the field trips"

To Charles, the adventures, new experiences, and time spent exploring the community are what make the Club special. Those trips aren't just fun days away from the building; they’re opportunities to build friendships, discover new places, and create memories that last long after summer ends.

Finally, I asked him what he would like to say to the people who help make the Club possible.

Like many kindergarteners, his answer wandered before eventually ending with a heartfelt "please." It may have been just one word, but we know what he meant. Thank you.

And maybe that's the best reminder of all.

Our donors don't just fund programs. They make it possible for children like Charles to spend their summers learning new skills, trying new experiences, making friends, and simply getting to be kids.

Every cupcake baked, every field trip taken, every afternoon spent learning and laughing is made possible because our community believes in investing in local youth.

Thank you for giving kids like Charles a place where they can learn, grow, and create memories that will stay with them long after summer is over.