Education Matters | Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties

By Christine Isaac | October 2024

Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties (BGCSDC) President/CEO Bill Sadlo describes the organization’s approach to impact as follows: “We’ve enhanced our program to be even more responsive to the opportunities and challenges that local youth face today, which will support their resiliency and lifelong success.” 

Since 1970, BGCDCS has been committed to nothing less than success—being within reach of every young person entering its doors. All members are on track to graduate high school and are equipped with plans for their futures while demonstrating good character, citizenship, and a healthy lifestyle. 

As back-to-school season gets underway, Sadlo explains how BGCSDC is poised to make significant strides, investing in the future and education of youth across Sarasota and DeSoto Counties. The approach aligns with a broader national strategy guided by Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s “Future Ready” blueprint, emphasizing collective impact.

“This Future Ready framework centers onpositive outcomes in four key areas: Health and Wellness, Character and Leadership, Academic Success, and Life & Workforce Readiness.”

Launching a new behavioral health program in May 2024 was one significant step forward in the health and wellness category. 

“Addressing mental health remains a top priority,” Sadlo says. “We understand that youth can be successful if they have access to caring professionals and comprehensive wellness programs. This innovative new program ensures we support and empower youth and their families to improve their quality of life.” 

BGCSDC hired a team of Master of Social Work (MSW) who provide counseling, support, and advocacy services to the youth and families served, promoting the social, emotional, and mental well-being of youth and creating a safe and supportive environment within all six of the organization’s Club locations. 

The BGCSDC 2023 impact report makes his point, citing the organization’s youth-led initiative of planning and hosting a full-day Mental Health Summit at the Club, with nearly 70 teens attending and engaging with mental health professionals in workshops and panel discussions. 

“We are enhancing the Club experience, ensuring we meet the needs of our youth. By expanding our reach and capacity for impact, we aim to address unmet needs within our communities. We are committed to ensuring our impact grows alongside our initiatives.”

Establishing new roles such as Enrichment Director and Academic Director are examples of how BGCSDC, gives tangible enhancements to their program models.

Academic success is a primary organizational focus, and he reiterates that literacy and STEAM education are cornerstones of BGCSDC’s strategy. 

“With a multi-pronged approach, we provide comprehensive academic support that sets up members for life-long success.” 

What might future successes look like exactly? Like 275 Club members, ages six through twelve, participating in STEAM activities with partners like Mote Marine, Van Wezel, and Project Nature Bridge. Also in 2023, 37 Club members were awarded college scholarships by local donors, 186 teens participated in vocation training programs at their Clubs, 71 Club teens served as full voting members on local Boards of Directors, and eight teens traveled to Washington, D.C. for National Youth Advocacy Days to advocate for their Clubs. Or, as Ashley V., a Club member, explains:

“. . .the Boys &Girls Club (is) more than just an after-school haven; it has become my second home, shaped my character, and provided opportunities for personal and academic growth.” 

A recipient of the Club’s Steven and Marjolaine Townsend Scholarship, she describes herself as a shy Ecuadorian immigrant, and BGCSDCs have been instrumental in fostering her confidence and sense of belonging. 

“I felt connected to my community and proud of my Hispanic identity. I now (can) achieve my dream of becoming a doctor. . .The Club has helped me and my parents’ ‘American Dream’ become a reality.”

Such an impactful statement makes it easy to agree with Sadlo, who stresses the need for BGCSDC facilities and resources that match our community’s growth and needs. The daily bustle and flow throughout each of the facilities is significant. Some of 2023’s highlights include 3,348 registered members served, 97,125 snacks and meals provided, 361 free water safety lessons given, and 700+ new toys, hot meals, and gameplay time supplied at one of four holiday parties.  In addition to the grand opening of the organization’s Louis and Gloria Flanzer Boys & Girls Club in Arcadia, BGCSDC has capital projects at Clubs in North Port and Newtown. 

Equally noteworthy is what BGCSDC gives its southwest communities in return: 3,646 service hours at partner nonprofits – the equivalent of $115,000.

“Our goal is clear as we continue,” Sadlo states. “We want to drive collective impact through innovation and strategic investments. Focusing on these core areas positions BGCSDC to shape a great future for our youth and communities.” 

A great future is well underway, with 98% of Club members earning on-time grade advancement and 100% either improving or maintaining their academic performance during the Summer Program.

With its current slate of award-winning programs, BGCSDC is strategically building programs and partnerships to be even more “responsive, impactful, and innovative.” Sadlo shares these meaningful quotes from Club member Isaiah B. and his mother.

“I used to get into trouble because I would get upset. When I (joined BGCSDC), they said I needed to learn to handle my feelings. My mom met with the Club Director and made a plan. Then the staff worked with me every day . . . My Club helped me learn how to deal with my feelings. Now, I know what to do with my feelings, and I don’t get in trouble at school or my Club.”

“[Isaiah] is an only child with enough energy for all of us. (The Club is) a place where he can play and get that energy out positively. The Boys & Girls Club helps fill in the spots I’m missing as the only parent.” 

 BGCSDC has much to be proud of, including the integrity with which it is run. It has boasted a top fiscally responsible four-star rating from Charity Navigator for nine years. (Charity Navigator is the top third-party nonprofit evaluator, and four-star ratings are only awarded to the most effective and transparent agencies). It’s no wonder the community is willing to invest in its mission. Individual donations ($4,056,341 in 2023) comprise roughly 50% of the organization’s annual budget. A yearly Boys & Girls Club membership empowers youth to succeed in school, become leaders, and live healthy, productive lives. With access to award-winning programs and devoted youth development professionals, our community’s future leaders are safe at BGCSDC to grow into their full potential. While the families served pay a nominal Club membership fee, the actual cost for BGCSDC to serve one child for one year is $2,500. 

“Our supporters and partners enable us to continue investing in more ways to ensure Club members have top-notch tools, resources, and mentors,” said Sadlo. “Thanks to the generosity of a local couple, those eager to join our efforts in supporting our mission can have their gift of a $2,500 Club membership matched, dollar for dollar. Together, we can ensure more youth have the year-round support they need to succeed.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota and Desoto Counties, visit bgcsdc.org or call 941-366-3911.