Working non-profit has its ups and downs... I mean, the pay isn't that great, but you can really be listened to. I think the only real down is the pay, but times when you get a little glimpse into how you can really make a difference you realize money might make the world go round, but spinning too fast can make you dizzy.
I don't think people realize in Garden Grove how much Boys & Girls Clubs really make a difference. I didn't know until I started with the organization. No, we aren't just a "swim and gym." We have a pre-school, 5 before school programs, 15 afterschool programs (10 which are completely free and each serve over 100 kids a day), sports leagues, leadership groups like tourch club and keystone for jr. high and high school kids, summer programs, truancy reduction center, family youth and outreach counseling, opening up a children's health center next door where there is dental and health care provided through partnerships with CHOC & Healthy Smiles, and family literacy programs. Ok, I know that was a whole lot to read, but we really do reach from 18 months to 18 years and even the family as a whole. The PD and school district love us. I just don't know how to get our brand out into our community more.
I got seriously teary eyed when I was listening to our grant writers. They are constantly looking for us to expand. We serve 43 schools, and growing all the time. I don't really know where I'm going with this, but if you play golf, come to our golf tournament. I'll get off my soap box for now.
Posted by tricia at February 10, 2005 01:27 PMyay! i can actually read now without my eyeballs bleeding!!!
Posted by: joanna at February 10, 2005 11:19 PM