SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) – Kenyatta Callaway, the program director of the Syracuse Boy’s and Girl’s Club, wishes people can come to the center to see first-hand how young people’s education and relationships are enhanced. As Callaway calls it, a place for the youth to belong.
Many people think the Boy’s and Girl’s Club is just a place for children to hangout after school, but it shapes minds through programs that offer real life experiences and opportunities. For example, the Money Matters program teaches young adults from ages 13-18 how to set up personal checking accounts, create budgets, and how to start a small business.
The Boy’s and Girl’s Club offers specific help for young girls and boys to find guidance and mentorship. The program for young ladies is Smart Girls, teaching the girls problem solving skills and confidence. The program Passport to Manhood teaches young boys how to educate themselves on ways to be successful educationally and socially.
“Two of the key programs is our Smart Girls. And the other one has our passports and man. Those are two separate programs that at that time, we let the kids separate and to help build on the skills of coming into your womanhood or your manhood. So we give them some time to actually talk to someone.” Callaway said.
Callaway talks about how the club and its programs have not only helped young people but also their families. Many families, especially after COVID, needed a place to get help with their mental health. The clubs provide services to these families to have resources, like counseling for their emotional and mental state. The clubs make sure parents are always involved with the activities and learning what their child is doing and where they are.
” So one of the biggest things we’re looking to do over the school year is to make sure that we talking to people about our mental health as well as saying who we can get involved with in partnership with it.” Callaway said.
The club has the resources for youth and families to experience a better education, success, and have a safe space within the community. Callaway encourages people to be open to visit the multiple Boy’s and Girl’s club centers and see what services they can provide.
“I would say to any parent or child is to visit, visit your local centers, visitor because the Boys and Girls Club is just one center, we have multiple centers in the city and see what they have to offer. And you won’t know until you go in and visit.” Callaway said.
The Syracuse Boy’s and Girl’s club gives young people a sense of meaning, education, and knowledge on how to better themselves for their own lives and careers.
Derricka Settles, NCC News
