Boys & Girls Clubs of Porter County kicked off its annual fundraising campaign, “It Just Takes One”, by putting the spotlight on just how much impact one person has made. Chuck Leer, retiring President of Boys & Girls Clubs of Porter County, was honored with a “roast” at the kick off. Longtime friends and colleagues paused to toast Leer’s 41-year career with the organization, and 37 years in Porter County in which he led growth and outreach from 543 members to nearly 5,000 annually and from one club to four with an additional nine Kidstop sites. Roasters recognized Leer’s commitment to the youth of Porter County and his exceptional stewardship and analytical skills, while they poked fun at his golf game and his “squeaky clean” character.
John Miller, National Vice President of Organizational and Executive Development for Boys & Girls Clubs of America, was on hand to present Leer with the National Service to Youth Award in honor of his commitment to the Boys & Girls Clubs movement.
“Chuck Leer’s dedication to the movement of the Boys and Girls Club has inspired us to continue to find ways to reach more youth and provide them great programming in a safe environment,” said Tim Rice, Vice Chair of Boys & Girls Clubs of Porter County’s Board of Directors. “We are so very thankful for his many years of leadership!”
Boys & Girls Clubs of Porter County raised over $42,000 at the “It Just Takes One” kick-off. The 2013 goal is to raise $183,000 for the Clubs’ annual operating expenses necessary to provide the high-quality youth development programs such as Club Tech, Power Hour and Smart Moves, tutoring and athletics to nearly 5,000 children and their families throughout Porter County. The Allen Family Fund and an anonymous donor are matching contributions to the “It Just Takes One” campaign dollar for dollar up to $15,000. To make a contribution to the “It Just Takes One” campaign, please contact Dawn Duty at 219-464-7282 x 226 or visit www.bgcpoco.org.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Porter County has been opening doors to GREAT FUTURES for Porter County’s youth since 1971. The Clubs provide high quality programs for nearly 5,000 boys and girls in the areas of character and leadership development, educational enhancement, career preparation, health and life skills, the arts and sports, fitness and recreation.
For more information on membership, volunteer opportunities or to make a tax deductible donation to Boys & Girls Clubs of Porter County, please contact your local Club, call (219) 464-7282 or visit www.bgcpoco.org. Great Futures Start HERE.