Inspiring Kids: Best Moments of 2024 from Boys & Girls Club Kids
This year, more than 5,400 Boys & Girls Clubs opened doors of opportunity to young people across the nation and on U.S. military installations worldwide.
With Clubs serving over 3 million kids and teens each year — that’s a whole lot of meaningful moments with mentors, slam dunks on the basketball court, glitter-filled arts and crafts projects, college scholarship and career networking experiences for teens, and more.
We’ve rounded up some of the stand-out moments this year and the inspiring kid stories that made 2024 extra special. Take a look!
Riya’s Take on Emotions Informs Summer Blockbuster “Inside Out 2″
16-year-old Riya from Boys & Girls Clubs of South Puget Sound got tapped by her Club mentor Achiya Clemons for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: to be part of a group of young women providing consultation for Pixar’s animated film “Inside Out 2.”
The movie spotlights the transition from childhood to teenage years, and who better to inform the feelings, thoughts and experiences of growing up than teen girls? In 2024, Riya attended the world premiere of the popular movie, walking the red carpet with actress and Oscar nominee June Squibb, who voiced the role of Nostalgia, a new character Riya pitched and helped bring to life.
Double Play: Pearle Returns to World Series to Sing National Anthem
19-year-old Pearle Peterson is living the dream, twice! After rocking the World Series stage last year with her incredible rendition of the national anthem, Pearle was asked back by Major League Baseball for an encore performance during Game 2 this year.
From singing in her high school auditorium to the biggest baseball stage in the world, it’s been a wild ride for this talented teen. In fact, Pearle says the experience has changed her life — making her decide to pursue a career in music. Thanks to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Olympic Peninsula, Pearle found a supportive community that helped her develop her talents and believe in herself.
From Fear to Fame: Ayden’s Book Makes a Splash
Imagine overcoming your biggest fear and turning it into a book that inspires others. That’s exactly what nine-year-old Ayden from Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern North Carolina did.
His book, “Hair Wash Day,” is a heartwarming tale about conquering fear and embracing self-love. Ayden’s story has resonated with kids everywhere. He’s even become a local celebrity, signing books at events and working on his next book inspired by his summer adventures at the Boys & Girls Club.
Nico Named National Youth of the Year
In September, Nico, an inspiring teen from Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida, earned the title of Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s National Youth of the Year! Surrounded by celebrity alumni like Denzel Washington and Alex Rodriguez, Nico’s hard work and dedication to his Boys & Girls Club and community were honored on a national stage.
He also earned a college scholarship, a brand-new Toyota and some truly incredible experiences, including being featured in an upcoming Kohl’s marketing campaign and delivering the game ball at the World Series.
As National Youth of the Year, Nico will represent millions of Club kids across the country, inspiring them to reach for the stars. Thank you to our partners Toyota, Kohl’s and MLB for empowering young leaders like Nico.
The Sky is the Limit: Teen Aviator Jill is Awarded a $34K Scholarship
This summer, 17-year-old Jill was handed one very big check to help fund her dreams. In early 2024, we shared Jill’s inspiring story as a teen aviator. Jill was just eight years old when a Boys & Girls Clubs of Volusia/Flagler Counties field trip sparked her love of aviation. Now, she’s earned her pilot’s license before her driver’s license.
When our national partner Allegiant saw this story, it was a match made in the clouds — they awarded Jill a scholarship to aeronautical university and paired her with a female mentor in the aviation field. It’s a great example of how Clubs support the ambitions and dreams of their young people, and our national partners do, too.
Eli Sparks a Friendly Rivalry with Basketball Superstar Caitlin Clark
In a tough year for his family, 7-year-old Eli made an unlikely and star-studded friendship. After Eli’s family lost their home in a house fire, basketball superstar Caitlin Clark joined efforts to help the family rebuild — and to hone some basketball skills in the making.
Eli challenged Caitlin on the local basketball court and she blocked his shot (savage!), before inviting his family to her next Indiana Fever game. There, Clark greeted her pint-size rival with a big hug. Eli’s dad Dusten is a big fan of their local Boys & Girls Club of Boone County, saying, “The Club has loved on our family through the good times and bad.”
These are just a few of the incredible moments Boys & Girls Club kids experienced in 2024. Thank you to Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s national partners, donors and advocates for your commitment to the great futures of America’s youth.
Give the Life-Changing Gift of Boys & Girls Clubs
It’s often one simple thing that can change everything for a child. One caring mentor who’s there through every up and down. One experience that opens doors to great futures. One moment. All it takes is one, all it takes is you. This holiday season, your gift to Boys & Girls Clubs of America can be the one thing that changes everything for a child. Please consider donating today.
