By Joey Johnston
Jason Jenkins, chief of staff for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Tampa Bay, praised the organization’s long-term partnership with the Sports Club of Tampa Bay as he spoke during the Sports Club’s season-kickoff meeting on Aug. 20 at the Palma Ceia Country Club.
“We can stand here and talk about programs and partnerships, but nothing proves success like results,’’ Jenkins said. “And our results are clear. Exactly 100-percent of our club seniors graduate (high school) on time, compared to only 86-percent in the Tampa Bay area. We serve more than 400,000 healthy meals and snacks, making sure that no child is hungry while they’re mastering skills in their development. Exactly 99-percent of our club members have not been arrested or involved in the court system, showing the power of positive engagement.
“Members of your own Sports Club of Tampa Bay Hall of Fame is proof that this formula works. Eighteen inductees grew up in our clubs, worked at our clubs or coached in our programs. They learned teamwork, discipline, leadership and the Boys and Girls Club way, carrying it into every arena they entered. That’s why we know this partnership works. That’s why we know it matters. Because when you combine the discipline of sports with the support of a caring community, you get futures worth celebrating.’’
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Tampa Bay have historically been the top beneficiary of the Sports Club of Tampa Bay’s charitable efforts. Jenkins received a $20,000 check from Sports Club vice president Kelly Lastra. The Boys and Girls Clubs have received more than $500,000 over the years from the Sports Club.
“That’s a half-million dollars invested directly into the lives of kids right here in our community,’’ Jenkins said. “That’s buses to practice, that’s uniforms and equipment, that’s scholarships and tournaments, and that’s referees. That’s kids who stayed off the street because they had a team to be dedicated to. I happen to be one of those kids, so that’s very important to us.
“That kind of impact doesn’t happen overnight. It takes consistent, committed partners like the Sports Club who believe in the power to change lives.’’
Next Meeting, Sept. 10, 6 p.m. — Please join us to hear from Tampa Bay Lightning founder Phil Esposito and former team vice president Henry Paul as they discuss how the franchise got off the ground during its inaugural season in 1992-93.
