Boys & Girls Clubs of America Empowers Teens to Rise Up, Inspiring Hope and Optimism During Virtual Teen Conference July 22
Press Release
ATLANTA, GA. (July 7, 2021) – Boys & Girls Clubs of America, a pioneer in understanding youth and leading important conversations that allow teens to reach their full potential, today invites teens nationwide to register for its second annual virtual National Keystone Conference happening July 22-23 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. EST.
In partnership with Aaron’s, this year’s Keystone Conference will host nearly 1,200 teen leaders from across the nation to come together to lift up their voices and grow stronger in the face of challenges or adversity. Spotlighting this year’s theme, “Rise Up: We Won’t Be Stopped!”, the session aims to empower youth with hope and excitement about their future and the possibilities that lie ahead. The session will also include special guest appearances from influential voices like Michael Phelps, Marsai Martin and Simple Plan, and will engage teens through activities like Keystone Awards, interactive games and much more.
Teens will have the opportunity to discover new passions, voice their concerns and take action through various breakout sessions held throughout the two days. Breakout sessions include interactive activities such as fitness classes and cooking, along with education-driven courses on mental health and wellness and navigating challenges from the pandemic.
“After a time unlike any other, our teens are facing unique challenges in their lives,” said Jim Clark, president and CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of America. “As life gradually returns to new norms, we’re focused on providing teens with the tools and skill building opportunities to feel empowered in every area of their lives, from mental health and wellness to racial equity, to building the skills they need to succeed after high school. Thanks to our trusted partnership with Aaron’s, thousands of teens nationwide will have the opportunity to discover their own purpose, unlock their potential and become a changemaker by sharing their conference takeaways to impact their local communities.”
Since its renewal of a three-year, $5 million national partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Keystone program in 2018, Aaron’s has helped teens develop key character and leadership skills to enact positive change in their communities and shape their own futures.
“Aaron’s is proud to partner with Boys & Girls Clubs of America to bring this year’s Keystone Conference to teens worldwide,” said Douglas Lindsay, CEO of The Aaron’s Company. “Despite the challenges of the past year, we want to remind teens to be confident in who they are and recognize their power in enacting change and creating a successful future. We’re honored to support Boys & Girls Clubs of America in its mission to help young people build a path to a great future and are grateful for this opportunity to connect with our nation’s teens.”
All teens, regardless if they are Boys & Girls Clubs members or not, are invited and encouraged to register for this year’s virtual event here, now through July 9.
To learn more about Keystone and the Aaron’s partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, please click here.
About Boys & Girls Clubs of America
For 160 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA.org) has provided a safe place for kids and teens to learn and grow. Clubs offer caring adult mentors, fun and friendship, and high-impact youth development programs on a daily basis during critical non-school hours. Boys & Girls Clubs programming promotes academic success, good character and leadership, and healthy lifestyles. More than 4,700 Clubs serve over 4.6 million young people through Club membership and community outreach. Clubs are located in cities, towns, public housing and on Native lands throughout the country, and serve military families in BGCA-affiliated Youth Centers on U.S. military installations worldwide. National headquarters are located in Atlanta. Learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of America on Facebook and Twitter.
About The Aaron’s Company
Headquartered in Atlanta, The Aaron’s Company, Inc. (NYSE: AAN) is a leading omnichannel provider of lease-to-own and purchase solutions. Aaron’s engages in direct-to-consumer sales and lease ownership of furniture, home appliances, consumer electronics and accessories through its approximately 1,300 company-operated and franchised stores in 47 states and Canada, as well as its e-commerce platform, Aarons.com. For more information, visit Aarons.com or investor.aarons.com.
Media Contacts
Eliza Lynch
Boys & Girls Clubs of America
203-522-7010
elynch@bgca.org
