2009 National Award Winner for Program Excellence
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale (BGCS) Virginia G. Piper Branch received the prestigious Honor Award for Overall Program Excellence which is presented to a Club that has conducted the best overall program, as determined by entries submitted in each of the five core program areas. One of the organization's main programming objectives is to empower youth to support and influence their Club and community. Some of the different programs that provide varied and unique opportunities for their members include:
Club University - challenges members to earn honorary BGCA degrees in each of the five core program areas. Members strive to become well-rounded and complete programs in each area to receive their diplomas.
Around the World- visit other branches devoted to different countries and learn about their culture, customs and history.
MethSMART- prevention and awareness program specific to the dangers of meth use.
Diversity Day - brings all members together to participate in activities devoted to understanding and tolerating people of diverse cultures.
Lunchtime Intramurals - staff serves as "noon-aides" at local elementary schools and conduct physical fitness activities during lunch hours.
Additionally, the Piper Branch received the Merit Award for Program Excellence in Character and Leadership Programming for its "Young Patriots" program which highlights democracy and civic involvement. Merit Awards for Program Excellence are presented for outstanding programs developed and implemented in Boys & Girls Clubs across the country.
Hannah
Hannah smiles shyly and hides behind her bouncy, blonde curls when she talks. First and foremost, Hannah says she is an artist. "I like the art room here at the Club," she says. "My friends and I do projects like sand art, and we can even make maracas." Hannah takes the Advanced Art class from Joseph Wolves Kill at the Club and already, at age 8, can sketch and shadow very well with the skills she has developed in his class.
Another class she has had the opportunity to attend at the Hartley & Ruth Barker Branch is Music, where she's learned to play three songs on the recorder. Hannah is also very proud of all the homework she gets done while at the Club. "It's easier to do my homework here because you can raise your hand and get help," she says. "I don't know everything at home."
Hannah says she has learned a lot at the Hartley & Ruth Barker Branch in her two years as a Club member. "The staff members at the club also give me good advice, like always try my best."