Aaron and Tiffany

Aaron and Tiffany have every reason in the world to be hopeful for their future. A regular at Boys & Girls Clubs of Harford County, a United Way-funded partner, Tiffany is certain she will grow up to be either a lawyer, musician or singer. Aaron says he’ll be a lawyer too, a statement that is preceded with a playful shove and eye roll from his older sister. “He’s always trying to be like me,” says Tiffany, who isn’t aware of the weight of her words.

The fact is, being like Tiffany would be pretty great. Because the Boys & Girls Clubs are part of her everyday life, Tiffany is learning valuable life skills and being exposed to new and exciting opportunities. Rules of conduct, work ethic, social skills and healthy lifestyle choices are but a few of the wonderful things she’s taking away from her experience.

Miss Cheryl, who is a daily presence there, runs a pretty tight ship, and no one knows this more than these kids. Miss Cheryl is their grandmother and guardian, and became involved as a volunteer at Boys & Girls Clubs of Harford County three years ago. She was looking for healthy opportunities to provide to her kids and became such a fixture, that she eventually became part of the staff.

Randy Acosta, Executive Director of Boys & Girls Clubs of Harford County, has an affinity for the club he grew up in and now manages. “The great thing about our membership is that it provides what we call the BUIC model. B: Have they achieved a sense of belonging? U: Have they achieved a sense of usefulness? I: Is there involvement? And C: Have they achieved a sense of confidence? That’s why our little green card is so important for every child in Harford County. You’re a kid only one time, and we take that very seriously.”

Boys and Girls Clubs of Harford County has four branches across Harford County and is managed by Randy Acosta, Executive Director.

This story represents one of so many that happen at Boys and Girls Clubs of Harford County, which is one of more than 100 partners of UWCM.