Building Champions: How Boys & Girls Clubs Are Shaping Sarasota and DeSoto’s Future All-Stars

A great community is like a championship team, where every individual plays their part and is dedicated to the success and well-being of both the unit and its members. Just as teammates support each other and work toward a common goal, a strong community thrives when its people are united and committed to lifting one another up.

For more than 50 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties has been building our community’s future championship team. Thousands of kids and teens, ages 6 to 18, rely on the Club to access essential resources that help them reach their full potential. It’s more than just an organization—its where local youth transform into something extraordinary.

All summer long the “team” at Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties has been training to ensure this new academic year is a slam dunk.

With their academic coaches and wellness professionals,   Club members sharpened their math skills, boosted their science knowledge, and reached their wellness goals like champions. Guided by their leadership coach, they also learned to speak up and lead with confidence, just like a captain on the field. As a result, 100% of Club members either maintained or improved their academic performance during the summer.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties fuels the brains, muscles and hearts of children in our community.  The children that will grow to be vital contributors to the continued success of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties.

Your support will ensure thousands of Club members have whatever it takes to succeed. 

You are the key player that takes us from good to great. 

Please help us empower our Club members. From athletes to mathletes, help us help them achieve their full potential this 2024-2025 back-to-school season.

Here are five ways to be an MVP for local youth.

SEASON TICKET HOLDER - $2500 – supports one Club member for the entire year including both school-year and summer seasons.

Brain Booster - $1000 enhances academic training for the youth with daily homework help and instruction.

Mindful MVP - $500 – promotes positive mental wellness with free access to embedded mental health professionals.

Leadership All-Star - $250 – levels up our community’s future leaders through the development of positive character and leadership skills.

Active Advocate - $100 – champions physical fitness through guidance on nutrition, daily activity, and the importance of play.