Empowering Youth Through Holistic Opportunities
In the bustling heart of Arlington, Texas, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County are serving as beacons of hope, transforming the lives of local youth one child at a time. With a rich history spanning over six decades, this dynamic organization has become a pillar of the community, providing a safe haven and a wealth of resources to families in need.
The Arlington branches of the Boys & Girls Clubs have expanded significantly in recent years, now offering a comprehensive suite of programs that cater to the diverse needs of the city’s children. From homework assistance and nutritious meals to character-building activities and college readiness workshops, these clubs are truly leveling the playing field for young people, ensuring they have the tools and support they need to thrive.
“When you’re a single mom, any help that you can get in that area is such a tremendous blessing,” reflects Darla Peznell, a former club member whose youngest son attended the Arlington program in the mid-2000s. Peznell, who was working multiple jobs to put herself through college at the time, recalls the invaluable assistance the club provided in terms of afterschool care, homework help, and consistent meals.
Today, the Arlington clubs continue to be a lifeline for families, serving over 8,190 children in 2023 alone. Daphne Barlow Stigliano, the president and CEO of the Greater Tarrant County organization, emphasizes the club’s commitment to filling the gaps in the community, ensuring that no child is left behind.
Fostering Academic Success and Holistic Development
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County take a multifaceted approach to supporting the children they serve. Their after-school programs not only provide a safe and nurturing environment but also focus on academic enrichment, physical activity, and personal growth.
“It’s the fact that we’re keeping your mind engaged and that we’re putting you through the structures of these activities,” explains Barlow Stigliano. The club’s curriculum is designed to complement the school day, with a balance of structured learning and recreational pursuits that keep children stimulated and engaged.
One of the key areas of focus is literacy development, particularly in the critical early grades. “Children are most susceptible to learning loss during the summer months, and our summer programs help keep their minds active and engaged,” Barlow Stigliano notes. By maintaining a consistent routine and incorporating educational elements into their activities, the clubs ensure that students continue to progress in their learning, even when school is not in session.
The clubs also place a strong emphasis on character development, social-emotional learning, and workforce readiness. Through workshops, mentorship programs, and hands-on experiences, children are empowered to develop essential life skills, build self-confidence, and explore potential career paths.
“Children are the future. They’re the reasons we gather to help support their endeavors,” says Peznell, who now leads the Ladies’ Auxiliary of Arlington, a long-standing fundraising organization that has contributed over $15 million to the local Boys & Girls Clubs since 1960.
Removing Barriers and Ensuring Accessibility
One of the hallmarks of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County is their unwavering commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. The organization recognizes that many of the families they serve face significant financial and logistical challenges, and they work tirelessly to remove these barriers.
The annual membership fee for the clubs is just $100, and this fee is waived for families in need. This ensures that all children, regardless of their economic background, have the opportunity to participate in the club’s enriching programs.
“When people come to Arlington, they look at our entertainment district, and they see the beautiful stadiums. But what they don’t see is we are equally, if not more so, impoverished,” Peznell observes. “They don’t see what these kids go through every day. Some of them, their parents, work more than one job and go to school.”
The clubs’ comprehensive services extend beyond the after-school hours, with programs that provide nutritious meals and snacks to sustain children throughout the day. This crucial support helps alleviate the burden on families who may struggle to ensure their children have access to consistent, healthy food.
Furthermore, the clubs’ strategic placement within the community, with three campuses across the city and partnerships with 22 Arlington ISD schools, ensures that children can easily access these vital resources, regardless of their location or transportation needs.
Building a Brighter Future, One Child at a Time
The impact of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County is undeniable, as evidenced by the stories of individuals like Darla Peznell, whose family was profoundly supported by the organization during a challenging time.
“When people come to Arlington, they look at our entertainment district, and they see the beautiful stadiums. But what they don’t see is we are equally, if not more so, impoverished,” Peznell observes. “They don’t see what these kids go through every day. Some of them, their parents, work more than one job and go to school.”
Peznell’s own journey is a testament to the transformative power of the clubs. After receiving the support she needed as a single mother, she went on to achieve remarkable success, including chairing the Arlington Chamber of Commerce’s Women’s Alliance and co-founding the Trending Women community group. Now, she actively gives back to the organization that once lifted her up, leading the Ladies’ Auxiliary of Arlington and advocating for the club’s continued growth and impact.
“Children are the future. They’re the reasons we gather to help support their endeavors,” Peznell affirms. “We want to level the playing field for them, we want to give them the tools they need to be successful, and whatever that looks like for a child individually or as a group, that’s what we’re about.”
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County are not just providing a safe haven for Arlington’s youth; they are equipping them with the resources, skills, and confidence they need to thrive. By addressing the unique challenges faced by families in the community and offering a comprehensive suite of programs, the organization is ensuring that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
As the clubs continue to expand and evolve, their impact will only continue to grow, transforming the lives of generations to come and solidifying their place as a true beacon of hope in the heart of Arlington.
