After school is a big focus
receives the same benefits and program opportunities.
“Each child gets a full meal, gets opportunities for homework help, tutoring opportunities from staff, field trip opportunities, character building courses, and much more,” Sams said.
The Boys & Girls Club primarily focuses on six different programs: sports and recreation, education and career development, the arts, health and wellness, and character and leadership.
A myriad of programs exist in each category and are available for the mass of members.
The sports and recreation program is designed to teach youth good habits about exercise and nutrition while allowing them to have fun. This include positive use of leisure time, stress management skills, appreciation for the environment, and social skills.
The education and career category is designed to teach youth proficiency in education disciplines of their choice. Members are taught to set goals, explore careers, and embrace technology all for the goal of preparing for employment.
The arts program is centered around developing youth mentally, creatively, and culturally through knowledge and appreciation of visual arts, crafts, performing arts, and writing.
Health and Wellness has the goal of developing good habits in club members by helping them to set personal goals that will in turn help them become healthy, self-sufficient adults.
The character and leadership program is perhaps one of the most prominent programs. Youth are made empowered to help the community abroad, sustain meaningful relationships with others, develop positive self-image, participate in the democratic process, and learn the power of respecting one’s own and others cultures.
“Our numbers have really been increasing lately,” Sams said. “There’s an average of about 150 kids here. I try to hire educated women and men to help with the various programs, and I’ve got about eight staff right now including a part-time bus driver. We’re always looking for volunteers — those wanting to help can call.”
The Boys & Girls Club of Cedartown can be reached at 770-749-0869.