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Mentors play a pivotal role in shaping the lives of our youth for great futures. When it comes to leaving a positive impact, 2023 Joseph Dulin Staff of the Year, Alan Adams, is a prime example of what a mentor should be. The Childcare Director of our H. Fletcher Brown Club, Alan recognizes the importance of empowering and encouraging the members who walk into the Club each day.
“I enjoy watching the kids grow and learn. The process of them developing the skills to tie their shoe, work on a project or speak in public is great to be a part of” Alan says. At the Club, members learn the critical skills they’ll need for success. Mentors like Alan provide members with the tools they need for success, both in small milestones and major life-lessons. From the moment youth join the Club in Kindergarten until their high school graduation, staff are by their side to foster growth and resilience every step of the way.
Reflecting on his own journey, Alan credits his biggest mentors – his father and Mr. George- with teaching him the value of genuine connections. “We talked about Lebron James and I was able to connect with him about how we both liked basketball”. Alan implements this genuine approach with his Club kids today, making sure to discuss the interests and topics that are important to them. He knows that by creating a mutual trust, his Club kids know they can come to him for advice. Making sure our youth have a trusted adult at the Club ensures they always have someone in their corner who prioritizes their well-being and success.
For Alan, the best part of being a mentor is the ability to be there for significant moments in the lives of Club members. “I’ll have kids come up to me and say ‘Mr.Alan, this was the best day ever’ after field trips or Club events like our Christmas party. I feel special that I got to be a part of that day with them.” These core memories are one of the many reasons that being a Club member is so special. Mentors like Alan create moments for youth to foster friendships, experience new opportunities and establish a sense of community.
Mentors at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware like Alan offer more than just guidance, they also establish a foundation for a great future. Through their dedication Club kids gain trusted role models who believe in their potential and empower them to thrive. We’re thankful for Alan and the impact he has on the members at our H. Fletcher Brown Club, who because of his work, will go on to do great things!
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