2025
Your Impact You helped a quiet girl become a confident leader.
When she joined the Boys & Girls Club two years ago, Timya rarely spoke. “She was quiet – very quiet,” Club Director Zuhail Nieves says. It took a while, but the kid with the captivating smile started mingling with other members, sharing laughs and taking part in Club activities. “She started opening up and making friends,” Nieves says. Today, Timya, 14, is a Club leader and a good student. As a member of the Torch Club, a leadership group, she helps plan community events as well as field trips. In addition, she helps younger children read and complete projects at the Club, which has more than 90 members. She loves coming to the Club every day. “I feel good, I feel happy because there are people here I can socialize with, people I can talk to and do all sorts of fun things and activities with them instead of being by myself,” Timya says. She admits it took some determination to break out of her shell. “I was just thinking one day, well, I can try (the Club) out,” Timya says. “So I signed up, and now I’m here. I’m glad I’m here.” Timya developed a strong interest in science, technology, engineering and math skills, commonly known as STEM. She is particularly fond of engineering techniques and “building stuff.” Timya says she is glad she took a chance on the Club. “I do feel way happier here,” she says. “I love it.” None of this would have been possible without you. Because of you, Timya has found a safe place to belong, supportive friendships, and opportunities to grow at the Club. Thank you for making stories like hers possible.
Because of you, kids can rely on the Clubs.
By the Numbers:
I continue to be inspired by the impact Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio is making in the lives of young people.
1,020
Like many organizations, 2025 brought both challenges and opportunities for Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio. As demand for our programs grew and funding pressures persisted, we relied on the strength of our community more than ever. Because of supporters like you, we were able to continue showing up for young people — providing safe spaces, caring mentors and meaningful opportunities that help them learn, grow, and thrive. In this report, you’ll see the difference your generosity makes in stories like Timya’s and in the outcomes our members are achieving every day. These moments of confidence, connection and growth happen because you choose to invest your time and resources in young people and their futures. Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio would not be possible without you. We are deeply grateful for your belief in our kids and our mission. Thank you.
Allen Smith, Ed.D. CEO
Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Ohio 4111 Pearl Ave., Lorain, Ohio 44055
www.bgcneo.org
BGCNEO in 2025
youth walked through our doors daily
153,055
free meals served at our Clubs
85%
of teens have defined career goals
57%
of members grew in reading and math
Return on Investment
Every dollar invested in Boys & Girls Clubs generates $12.25 in economic and social impact for Ohio communities, according to a study by Ohio University’s Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Service.
Volunteer Spotlight In 2025, 768 volunteers contributed more than 3,346 hours helping create safe, welcoming spaces where kids can learn and grow. We partnered with 50 unique groups, including 26 who returned from 2024. This generosity represents an estimated $112,059 in community impact, based on national volunteer value data. You are making a lasting difference for the young people we serve. Thank you.