News

Growing Leaders from Within

This summer, something pretty incredible is happening across our Bemidji and Blackduck branches.

A record 11 Club Teens are serving as Youth Staff, making this the largest group of youth employees we’ve ever had at one time. Between the ages of 14 and 17, these young leaders are working 4–5 hours each day in a variety of roles, including Youth Development Professionals, front desk support, and snack and lunch assistance.

Even more exciting, seven of these teens are working at the Club for the very first time, while four have returned for another summer – choosing to continue investing in the place that has invested in them.

These opportunities are made possible through funding from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and the American Connection Corps Learning Grant (ACLG), supporting one of the Club’s four key program areas: Life & Workforce Readiness.

Through these positions, Teens are gaining valuable workplace experience while building leadership, communication, responsibility, and confidence that will serve them long after summer ends.

Perhaps the most meaningful part is that these aren’t just employees – they’re current Club kids giving back to the next generation. They’re mentoring younger members, creating positive experiences, and becoming role models for the kids who look up to them each day.

When asked about their experience, here’s what a few had to say:

“My position is a Youth Development Professional in the Mights area where I help watch and support the kids. Whether they’re having a hard day or need guidance with a project, I’m there wherever I’m needed. This is my first year here, and I LOVE working with the kids. It’s been a great experience, and the staff are so nice!”

– Iris, 14 (Future plans: Teacher or Medical Field)

“This is my first year working as a Youth Development Professional at the Blackduck Branch. I’ve enjoyed working with the kids this summer, and my favorite part is doing arts and crafts with them – they’re so creative!”

– Isabel, 17 (Future plans: Dental Hygienist)

“I’ve been a Youth Staff member for two years, working with the Juniors. I help keep the kids safe while making sure they’re having fun. My favorite part is playing games with them in the gym, especially basketball, three-step, and kickball.”

–  Ryan, 15

Watching these young people grow from Club members into mentors is one of the greatest reminders of what the Boys & Girls Club is all about. Today’s Club kids are becoming tomorrow’s leaders – and we couldn’t be prouder.

Club Garden Update: High Tunnel, Cultural Ceremony, Native Garden, and more!

There’s been plenty of growth happening in and around the Boys & Girls Club garden this year—and we’re not just talking about the vegetables!

High Tunnel Restored

Honoring Tradition

From Seed to Harvest

Growing a Native Landscape

Boys & Girls Club Volunteers Nominated for Someone Special Volunteer Recognition

The Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area is proud to recognize two outstanding volunteer nominations for the 36th Annual Someone Special Volunteer Program, hosted by the United Way of the Bemidji Area in partnership with Ken K. Thompson Jewelry, The Bemidji Pioneer, and Paul Bunyan Broadcasting.

The Someone Special Volunteer Program honors individuals who have made significant contributions to our community through their time, talents, and dedication to serving others. This year, the Club was honored to nominate Erin and Jared Morrill and Jennifer Parker for their exceptional volunteer service.

Erin & Jared Morrill

Safety is a top priority at the Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area, and Erin and Jared Morrill have played important roles in helping create safe, welcoming spaces for local youth.

Erin serves as Vice Chair of the Club’s Board of Directors and leads the Program and Safety Committee. Through regular safety walk-throughs at all three Club locations, she helps ensure that Club members have secure environments where they can learn, grow, and thrive.

Jared serves on the Facilities Committee, contributing countless hours toward facility improvements and ongoing storm recovery efforts at the Clubhouse. He is also known by many Club kids for joining in on a favorite activity – dodgeball.

Together, Erin and Jared support the Club through fundraising events such as the Annual Gala and the Blackduck Bonanza while lending their expertise, leadership, and hands-on support throughout the year. Their commitment helps ensure that Club kids have safe places to have fun, build relationships, and reach their full potential.

Jennifer Parker

Since the opening of the Blackduck Branch in Fall 2024, Jennifer Parker has been a dedicated advocate and supporter of the Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area.

As a member of the Blackduck Advisory Committee, Jennifer has helped guide and strengthen the Club’s presence in the Blackduck community. She has been instrumental in supporting fundraising efforts, including the Blackduck Golf Scramble and Blackduck Bonanza, assisting with sponsorships, auction items, event logistics, and planning.

Beyond her volunteer efforts, Jennifer regularly shares her knowledge, insights, and connections as a passionate community champion. Her dedication has helped the Blackduck Branch grow and thrive, ensuring local youth have access to safe, supportive opportunities after school and during the summer.

The Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area is grateful for the generosity, leadership, and commitment of Erin, Jared, and Jennifer. Their service exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism and demonstrates the powerful impact that dedicated community members can have on the lives of young people.

Congratulations to all of this year’s Someone Special Volunteer nominees, and thank you for helping create great futures for the youth of our community.

Connected to the Club for More Than a Decade

When Becca recently posed for her senior photos at the Boys & Girls Club, it wasn’t just a unique backdrop—it was a place filled with memories, friendships, and experiences that helped shape who she is today.

A member since 2015, Becca spent much of her childhood at the Club. From participating in programs and making lifelong friendships to exploring new opportunities and building confidence, the Club became a second home.

“The people are the best thing about the Club,” Becca once shared. Even then, her connection to the Club community was clear. Her bedtime prayers often included her “Club family,” a reflection of the meaningful relationships she built with staff and fellow members.

One of the most challenging chapters of Becca’s Club journey came during the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many young people, she faced disruptions to school, activities, and daily routines. During a time when many children felt isolated and uncertain, the Club provided stability, connection, and support. Becca eagerly returned when programs reopened, grateful to once again be surrounded by the people who had become such an important part of her life. The challenges of those years helped strengthen her resilience and taught her how to persevere through uncertainty while staying connected to the people who cared about her.

Over the years, Becca embraced many opportunities through the Club. She was a finalist in the National Fine Arts competition, enjoyed outdoor adventures like turkey hunting, and found encouragement from staff who helped her grow socially and personally. As her mother, Jari, once shared, Club staff provided support, guidance, and opportunities that made a lasting impact on Becca’s life.

As she got older, Becca’s relationship with the Club evolved. She became a youth employee, giving back to the next generation of Club kids and helping create the same welcoming environment she once enjoyed as a member.

Now, as she prepares to graduate with the Class of 2027, it feels fitting that some of her senior photos were taken inside the Club walls. Those photos capture more than a milestone—they tell the story of a young woman whose journey has been deeply connected to the Club for more than a decade.

From Club member to youth employee, from navigating the challenges of a global pandemic to preparing for her next chapter, Becca’s story is a testament to growth, perseverance, and the lasting impact of a caring community.

We are incredibly proud of Becca and grateful to have been part of her story. We can’t wait to see where her future takes her next.

is. Even on tough days, he would stop in, spend time talking with staff, and leave feeling happier and supported. Watching him grow into the young man he is today has been such a privilege for our team.

Johnny loves aloe plants, enjoys snacking on Nutty Buddy bars, and has a passion for origami — even hoping to sell some of his creations someday! He currently works at McDonald’s and dreams of traveling to National Parks one day with his plants along for the adventure.

Johnny also has a huge respect for first responders, including firefighters, EMTs, and police officers. To help celebrate his graduation, we invited an EMT vehicle and a police officer to visit the Club on Tuesday. It was a special surprise and a meaningful way to recognize someone who has shown so much appreciation for those who serve our community.

Johnny, we are so proud of you and all you have accomplished. Congratulations on your graduation — we can’t wait to see where life takes you next!

SHOUT OUT to our Facilities Committee!

First Ever Powwow at the Clubhouse

On April 14th, the Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area opened its doors for something truly special – our very first Powwow. What began as an idea years ago came to life through the dedication of a passionate planning committee made up of Club families, community members, and partners from the Bemidji School District. With the support of individuals like Pat Haugen, Anne Aitken, Patty Bugg, Jacquelyn Cabarrubia, Kelly Fagerstrom, Monica Thul, and J.W. Smith Elementary Principal Bruce Goodwin – alongside our incredible Club staff – this event became a meaningful celebration of culture, connection, and community.

We are deeply grateful to the BSU Council of Indian Students for stepping in to volunteer, to Wes Jourdain of RC Sound for providing audio support, and to Keveon Kingbird for guiding the evening as our host MC. Drum groups from the Boys & Girls Club of Deer River, Boys & Girls Club of Cass Lake, and Boys & Girls Club of Red Lake – along with participants from Ponemah – brought the heartbeat of the Powwow to life.

While gloomy weather brought us indoors, it didn’t dampen the spirit of the evening. Nearly 300 attendees filled our gym as Grand Entry began, followed by intertribal dancing that welcomed everyone – especially our young people – into the circle. Laughter and excitement carried through the night during spot dances and a crowd-favorite potato dance, while a delicious frybread taco meal from RedBear’s Frybread brought everyone together around the table. We’re also thankful to the Bemidji High School A/V Club for capturing these special moments – we look forward to sharing those photos as well!

It was an evening rooted in tradition, joy, and togetherness – and a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together. We are so proud to have hosted our first Powwow and look forward to continuing this meaningful tradition for years to come.

To view more photos of this event, visit our 2026 BGCBA Powwow album on Facebook HERE or click the button below! We will be adding to it as we receive them from our volunteers.

Behind the Scenes: Stepping into the Portal

Just one month in, The Portal – the Club’s new e-gaming and technology space – is already buzzing with energy. Nearly every day, the room is filled with curious, creative Club members eager to explore something new.

Leading the way is Andrew Fairbanks, who joined the team at the start of the year as the Club’s E-Gaming & Technology Specialist. From day one, Andrew has focused on making The Portal more than just a place to play – it’s a space to learn, create, and connect.

Behind the scenes, programming is thoughtfully designed to introduce kids to new digital skills in a fun and approachable way. Club members have started exploring content creation through indie games—learning the basics of recording and commentary while discovering games created by small, independent developers. Others have jumped into design through a playful t-shirt creation game, blending graphics and slogans into friendly competitions.

“I want kids to see that gaming can be more than just playing – it can be creating, designing, and even building skills for the future,” Andrew shared.

The Portal also makes space for important conversations. About once a week, Andrew leads activities focused on digital citizenship – helping Club members learn how to safely navigate the online world and recognize potential risks.

And the learning doesn’t stop there. A growing group of students has already shown interest in computer programming, with hands-on workshops in the works for the coming weeks.

What makes The Portal even more special is how it came to life. This wasn’t just built for Club members—it was built with them. Tweens and Teens helped assemble furniture, choose the room’s name, and even build the computers themselves! The result is a space that truly belongs to them.

With support from Paul Bunyan Communications powered by GigaZone, the room was transformed with an immersive wall wrap that brings the “Portal” concept to life—making it feel like stepping into another world.

This project was funded in part by the After-School Community Learning Grant. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, spaces like this are possible. The Portal is more than a room—it’s a launching point for creativity, confidence, and future opportunities.

Olivia G. – 2026 Youth of the Year

INTRO

“Hello, Olivia!” staff would say as I walked through those BIG glass doors of the Boys & Girls Club. I was in first grade.

At that age, the world felt comfortable and kind, filled with trust, love, and the belief that I could shape what happened next in my life.

At that time the Club was like my playground. The swings could launch me into outer space, and the slide was a portal to anywhere in the world. I felt joyful and carefree, allowed to explore and take risks. Back then, my imagination was in charge and because of that, I could be anything.

By third grade things changed. I was bullied at school, to everyone else, I was the bubbly, full-of-life child. But on the inside I felt scared and unsure. And little by little, I started to become less joyful and less carefree.

FAMILY

The biggest pressure on me was centered around my family. 

My biological father was struggling in life. The way he spoke and talked to people often raised many concerns and seemed really strange to me.

I didn’t understand why he did what he did at the time.

Then, as I got older, I started asking more questions. Eventually I learned the full story.

My biological dad has severe schizophrenia due to a carbon monoxide accident when he was eighteen and many other mental health problems caused from addictions and trauma.

When I finally understood, I felt powerless, broken, and defeated. 

Even at the Club, I felt as if the joyful, carefree playground was starting to rust.

Spending time with Talaya, playing games and talking about life really distracted me from the oncoming waves of the emotions of life.

CLUB

The Club is my safe haven. It gives me a space to process my emotions when things feel heavy.

My best friend Olivia, who I met through the Club. Is someone who helps me through thick and thin. She’s a really amazing listener, always there for me especially while I’m going through anything in life. She’s someone who conquered the heights of the playground with me.

Club staff were always there to help me when I was younger, bandaging up bumps and scratches. As life challenged me,

Talaya, a Club staff, was always there to help push me higher. Motivating me to try new things and go above and beyond in what I believe I can do. Making me feel as if I was never playing alone, I felt seen and heard.

The Club has been there for me since I was in first grade. It’s helped me overcome many challenges and created a space where I feel comfortable, stress free, and where I can be my most authentic self.

MY FUTURE

In the last two months, I lost my closest grandparent to cancer, my dog Buddy, and my mentor Talaya who moved to another state working at another Boys and Girls Club.

Tough moments have really shaped my life, they spark something inside of me that only comes from rock bottom, making me want to keep going. With this spark, I am planning on taking AP science classes in high school and all the medical classes I can take to graduate. After graduation I plan on going to college and then onto medical school.        

Ideally I want to be in the medical field to help those in need. Like my Boys and Girls Club did for me, I want to be a person who will make the playground safe and carefree for others.

The Club has shown me that it is incredibly important to take good care of the people in my life.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Little did I know that “Hey, Olivia!” When I walked into the big glass doors for the first time, it was the beginning of a great future. MY future. 

For me, it was the people at the Club who showed up for me, and that was what helped create my joyful, carefree playground.

Change is normal and if you’re scared, (pause) do it anyway.

They taught me something I didn’t understand at the time, that freedom lives in imagination, that I can be bubbly and have emotions, and that courage starts with believing anything is possible. 

Even as the world gets louder with pressures, expectations, challenges, and change.

I will always choose to remember that child on the swing, fearlessly reaching for the sky. But never forget the people at the Club who offered to push me higher and always believed I could accomplish anything. Making me believe in MY great future.

– Olivia G.

Lou Ann Knorr receives the Sue Engel Spirit of the Mission Award at the Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area Annual Gala

Bemidji, Minn. – The Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area recognized former board member Lou Ann Knorr with the Sue Engel Spirit of the Mission Award at its Annual Gala on February 20, 2026 at the SouthShore Hotel on Lake Bemidji.

The Spirit of the Mission — established in 2023 in memory of Engel, founding board member and first president — is awarded annually in recognition of an individual who demonstrates extraordinary volunteerism, passionate advocacy and promotion of the Club’s activities and mission, and meaningful financial support that advances its impact.

Knorr was a member of the Club board of directors from 2013 to 2022 and served as treasurer for eight of those years. She also chaired the Finance Committee and sat on the Executive Committee. She drew on her professional experience after retiring from Des Moines Community College, the largest community college system in Iowa, where she served 27 years in business education.

“Lou Ann is a strategic and compassionate leader, never taking for granted the contributions of others,” said Andrea Kent, Club executive director. “She helped lead the Club through financially difficult times and helped establish best practices that continue to serve the Club well today. The impact of her leadership has been far-reaching in serving youth and families, as well as Club staff, volunteers and donors.”

Knorr helped the Club transition from grant-based to donor-based funding and established the Club’s Endowment and Gift Acceptance policies. Then she and her husband, John Knorr, made the Club’s first stock donation to help train Club staff and ensure the process worked smoothly.

“She and John always went above and beyond the call of duty,” said Kent. “They cared about all of us at the Club.”

Knorr sat on the Boys & Girls Clubs Greater Midwest Area Council, supporting youth regionally. She was a key leader in the construction of the Club parking lot, better membership fee structures, updated bylaws, finance and human resources policies and resource development capacity.

She volunteered generously at Club events. The annual quilt festival, Harvest Dinner, annual Golf Championship, Gala and National Night Out.

In 2015 when the Club’s former Holidays by Hand festival lost its leader, Knorr assumed leadership, coordinating the event for the next two years.

Knorr is the daughter of Irene and the late Harding Vidden of Fertile, Minn. Her mother and three sisters attended the Gala to celebrate her achievements. Knorr and her husband reside in Puposky.

THE ISSUE AT HAND:

Bemidji Schools is considering the closure of J.W. Smith Elementary, which also houses a branch of our Boys & Girls Club afterschool activities as part of a 21st Century Community Learning Center funded by a grant by Minnesota Department of Education (MDE).

HOW DOES THIS AFFECT CLUB FAMILIES:

• Since opening the J.W. Smith Branch in Fall 2023, we have served 194 unique youth, an average of 70-80 per day.
• The Club uses the field, track, and playground at the elementary school for both Clubhouse and J.W. Smith Branch programs that benefit the entire community, like National Night Out, and year-round for Club activities.
• Tweens and teens are able to bus from the middle school and high school to J.W. Smith Elementary then walk to the Clubhouse.
• J.W. Smith Branch is located within walking distance of many Club families’ homes, therefore it would be an extra burden on the family not to have this proximity.
• Any and all of these children and teens could be negatively affected by the closure of J.W. Smith Elementary.

WHAT DOES THE CLUB DO AT J.W. SMITH:

MDE recognized the J.W. Smith Branch of the Boys & Girls Club as the best 21st Century Community Learning Center site they’ve seen in over 8 years, and says we are on track to have our grant renewed for three more years.

Club programs at J.W. Smith Branch, at no cost to families, focus on:

1. Reading supports
2. Math supports
3. Social, emotional, and behavioral supports
4. Accessible programming
5. Opportunities for a variety of enrichment
6. Food resources
7. Cultural programming

These are complementary to the Club’s key impact areas, offered at all sites: academic success, health & wellbeing, character & leadership, and workforce readiness. The Club program at J.W. Smith is successful because of the relationships with teachers, staff, and families to ensure youth are benefitting from a collective approach and belief in their ability to create great futures.

WHAT CAN YOU DO:

Contact the school board and superintendent to let them know that you are opposed to the closure of J.W. Smith Elementary and urge them to explore more solutions.

Please copy and paste this language, or write your own message:

I am a constituent in the Bemidji School District, and I am opposed to the closure of J.W. Smith Elementary. The closure would be detrimental to youth and families who rely on this neighborhood school to provide a sense of belonging and community. I value the partnership that has been carefully built with the Boys & Girls Club to provide afterschool activities at J.W. Smith Branch and we should continue to prioritize the intentional and impactful programs that benefit Club Kids. I urge the school board and superintendent to continue exploring other alternatives for a solution to the financial situation, one that does not include the closure of this critical neighborhood school and community resource.

Signed, your name and contact information

CONTACT:

Superintendent Jeremy Olson: dr_jeremy_olson@nullisd31.net

Todd Haugen: Todd_Haugen@nullisd31.net

Ann Long Voelkner: Ann_LongVoelkner@nullisd31.net

Jenny Frenzel: Jenny_Frenzel@nullisd31.net

Anna Manecke: Anna_Manecke@nullisd31.net

David Wall: Dave_Wall@nullisd31.net

Jack Aakhus: Jack_Aakhus@nullisd31.net

Olivia K. – 2026 Junior Youth of the Year

INTRO

Have you ever been watching a heated game, and noticed the way fans cheer for their teams?

The Boys and Girls Club has been cheering for me through everything.

At the beginning of my journey through the Boys and Girls Club I came for convenience. It was near my elementary school, and was open till my parents got off work. 

I was immediately surrounded by all of the nice staff and opportunities that were presented to me. I constantly asked for more time with friends.

CHALLENGES

But, in elementary school I had no idea that there would be another team that I would have to face. 

In third grade I was bullied by my own “friends”. I decided that I shouldn’t try to deal with this alone, so I asked for help. Staff helped me learn healthy ways to cope and stand up for myself. 

FAMILY

Fourth grade had many wins and very few losses…. or so I thought. I went overseas to see family with my dad. When we returned my father was different….  He had started to separate from us and started sleeping downstairs. 

The summer going into fifth grade my Grandpa had passed away. My dad started drinking and calling overseas often. This was a change in the game, a HUGE one.

Then sixth grade was when it all started to show on the outside. I felt like I was drowning. My mom and dad were unhappy together, which then led to the divorce. Middle school was difficult and the bullying began again. 

These things made me bitter and angry, but more than that, it made me sad. 

CLUB

At the Boys and Girls Club I always had a support system. The first teen/tween staff I met was Talaya. She never gave up on me. No matter what.

Just like my best friend Olivia G. who I met through the Boys and Girls Club. These two have been key players in the past few years and still continue to be.  

I spent all of middle school looking for answers, answers I never would have found without the help from the staff at Boys and Girls Club. 

This past summer I made a HUGE comeback. 

One day I saw a video of this blonde basketball player. Her name was Paige Bueckers. 

She made me realize that it is possible to succeed even though there will be hardships. 

With that, I decided to transfer from Trek North to Bemidji Middle School. I joined volleyball in early August and learned my love for sports. When volleyball ended I started to go back to Boys and Girls Club. 

At this time, I was contemplating if I should join basketball or not. And with support from my friends and staff they convinced me to play.

I finally feel like I belong, and I have a purpose. 

MY FUTURE/FINAL THOUGHTS

I participated in programs Triple Play and Career Launch that I really love sports. I want to be a physical therapist specifically for the Women’s National Basketball Association.

I want to be the reason that someone gets to return to the game they love.  

Just like how the club helped me and completely changed my life.

Though I never thought I’d be an underdog in my own life, the game isn’t over yet. The final buzzer hasn’t gone off yet. 

– Olivia K.

Congratulations to our incredible 2026 Local Youth of the Year and Junior Youth of the Year winners!

Olivia G. – 2026 Youth of the Year
Olivia K. – 2026 Junior Youth of the Year

We are so proud of you and all of our Finalists!

Each of our candidates showed immense courage by stepping forward, sharing their stories, and allowing their voices to be heard. That kind of bravery is no small thing. It’s like beginning a climb before you can see the summit. Every word shared, every moment of vulnerability, and every challenge faced along the way reflects strength, resilience, and heart.

We are especially excited that Olivia G. will be heading to the Minnesota State Capitol for the State Competition in March, carrying her story beyond our community to inspire others from across Minnesota. Her journey is a reminder that leadership isn’t about standing at the finish line, it’s about walking the path with purpose and lighting the way for others as you go.

To all of our candidates: you are proof that the future is bright, resilient, and full of heart. We are endlessly proud of you and can’t wait to see how each of you continues to grow and shine.

Please join us in celebrating all of our local competition finalists:

Michael Potter (Clubhouse) – Youth of the Year Finalist
Amarachi Ogugua (Clubhouse) – Junior Youth of the Year Finalist
Ellie Gordon (Blackduck) – Junior Youth of the Year Finalist

A special thank-you to our panel of judges:

Rose Brown, Dr. Thomas Dirth, Larry Kent, Alyssa Kruger, Janet Nelson, Steve Nelson and Karla Schumacher

From Weeds to Wildflowers: The Club’s Native Garden Takes Root

This summer, the Bemidji Clubhouse kicked off an exciting new project to transform two swales, or ditches, in our east parking lot into a vibrant native pollinator garden, funded through a generous grant from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

In partnership with Minnesota Native Landscaping and the Beltrami County Soil & Water Conservation District, we’re working to create a sustainable, healthy garden filled with native flowers that will attract important pollinators like bees and butterflies. Instead of quack grass and invasive weeds, the swales will be bursting with color and life!

Last August, a group of amazing Club volunteers and BSU nursing students laid black plastic over the swales to eliminate unwanted vegetation without the use of herbicides. Next spring, the plastic will be removed, the soil tilled, and a diverse mix of native wildflowers will be planted.

We can’t wait to see the Club in full bloom!

Andrea Kent inducted to Greater Midwest Area Council Boys & Girls Club Hall of Fame

BEMIDJI – Andrea Kent, Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area, has been inducted into the Greater Midwest Area Council Boys & Girls Club Hall of Fame in recognition for her tireless efforts in support of local youth.

The honor is reserved for individuals whose high achievements have made a mark on their local Club and have shaped and inspired regional Clubs in Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota.

Kent joined the Boys & Girls Club in 2009 and became Executive Director in 2012. In her nearly 15 years of service, Kent has always been a strong believer in the mission of the Club and an advocate for Boys & Girls Clubs locally and nationally.

“Her passion for the mission and the children of our community is infectious, and we are grateful for her every day.”

“Andrea is the driving force pushing our Club forward into the future,” shared Dan Nynas, chair of the Club’s Board of Directors. “Her passion for the mission and the children of our community is infectious, and we are grateful for her every day.”

Under Kent’s leadership, the organization has expanded from one site to three, making it possible for the Club to serve more youth, families, and communities. In 2023, the Boys & Girls Club opened a second site in partnership with Bemidji Schools at J.W. Smith Elementary. In 2024, after hearing about the city’s need for child care, a Blackduck Branch was opened.

“I see this not as a job, but as a calling,” Kent said while accepting the honor. “It’s a great honor to serve alongside such an incredible, talented, and dedicated team who believe that collectively we can make a real difference in the lives of our children, teens, families, and our Bemidji and Blackduck communities.”

The Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area now serves nearly 500 youth annually. In 2024, it had 492 members across its three sites, and served 25,784 free, healthy snacks and meals to youth.

Kent shared that she could not have done the work she has without the support of the staff at Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area, its board of directors, or most importantly her parents, children, and husband.

“Absolutely, positively, I can’t do this important work with their love and support,” Kent said. “Thank you all for supporting and inspiring me. I’m humbled and honored.”

To make a gift in honor of Andrea Kent’s dedicated service as a recipient of this award, please click button below.

Statement on 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Funding Delay

There are two important issues happening at the federal level right now that affect Club funding.

1. There is $7B in funding that was already allocated to out-of-school programs like 21st Century Community Learning Centers that is currently being held for review. Note: This funding hold is not related to the “Big Beautiful Bill” – a tax bill recently passed.

2. The proposed budget from President Trump does not include funding for 21st Century Community Learning Centers.

Suggested script to use for Bemidji:

Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area to open Blackduck Branch in Fall 2024

BEMIDJI, Minn. — The Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area announced today it will open a Blackduck Branch of Club services in partnership with Blackduck Public School, co-locating within the school. The new branch will open at the start of the 2024 school year.

“This is an exciting time for us,” said Andrea Kent, Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area executive director. “A lot of people have been working over the past four years to bring together the leadership and funding to make this dream possible. We are grateful to the school leadership, United Way and the whole Blackduck community for welcoming us and partnering with us to serve Blackduck youth.”

The Blackduck Branch will serve up to 100 youth in grades K-8, operating all day Mondays when Blackduck school is not in session and after school Tuesday through Friday. Plans for a summer program will be announced in the spring of 2025.

“We are thrilled to see the expansion of the Boys & Girls Clubs into Blackduck,” said Denae Alamano, United Way of Bemidji Area executive director. “This is a crucial step in addressing some of the most critical needs in the Blackduck community. United Way is proud to support this endeavor and thankful for the generous support of Blackduck residents to support their youth.”

The new branch is made possible by a grant from the Minnesota Department of Education, which will fund approximately 60 percent of the operations for the first two years. Additional programming support will be secured through individual and business donations, special events, membership fees, ongoing support from the United Way and grants.

Discussions about expanding Club services to Blackduck began in 2020 when United Way expanded its Backpack Buddies program to Blackduck to address childhood and teen food insecurity and established a mobile food pantry. At that time, community members also expressed the need for high-quality, consistent after-school programming. And United Way approached the Boys & Girls Club to explore possibilities.

Through the Minnesota Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs, which represents Clubs across the state, discussions began about how to better meet the needs of youth, especially in rural Minnesota. The Alliance began advocating to the state legislature for funds to help expand and establish new youth programs in new neighborhoods and new communities. The first funds were secured in the summer of 2023. After extensive local organizing between the Blackduck School District and community members, Blackduck was awarded a grant to fund a Club expansion in 2024.

“Blackduck School is looking forward to sharing our space with the Boys and Girls Club to provide our community with an excellent opportunity for our youth,” said Peter Bahr, Blackduck Dean of Students. “I look forward to seeing the possibilities they will offer and provide to our students.”

Club programming features three priority areas: Academic, Health, and Leadership with wrap-around programs focusing on social & emotional skills, art, STEM, prevention, mentoring and more.

The Club anticipates serving up to 100 students, in a 1 staff to 15 youth ratio, in grades K-8.

ENROLLMENT

Student who wish to enroll must complete a membership application (one per student).

Application materials will be released in May 2024 and be available in the Blackduck school elementary and high school offices and also at www.bgcbemidji.org.

Students must be registered to attend, complete all membership paperwork and attend a mandatory, in-person orientation with their parent and/or guardian. No drop-in attendance will be available. In the event the Club reaches membership capacity, the Club will begin a waiting list.

Financial aid will be available, on a limited basis, for those qualifying families. For interested families of Blackduck students, text @BGCBduck to 81010 to receive Remind updates.

EMPLOYMENT

Both full-time and part-time employment opportunities will be available and are posted on Indeed.com and at www.bgcbemidji.org.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteers are critical to the launch of the Blackduck Branch in September. Anyone interested in helping guide and market the new Club branch should contact Lori Lundberg at lori@nullnorthwoodslumber.com or Andrea Kent, BGCBA Executive Director at andrea.kent@nullbgcbemidji.org

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The Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area serves more than 300 youth, ages 6-18, with after-school and summer programs, plus teen nights. Nutritious snacks are served after-school, as well as lunch, M-F, in the summer. For a nominal fee, kids find a fun and safe place to build academic success, healthy lifestyles and good character & citizenship. The Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area is located at 1600 Minnesota Avenue. For more information, see bgcbemidji.org or call (218) 444-4171.

Boys & Girls Club to expand services at J.W. Smith Elementary this fall

The Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area will expand its services through the operation of a school-based site at J.W. Smith Elementary School as a 21st Century Community Learning Center.

Students in grades K-3 who attend J.W. Smith will have the opportunity to attend after-school programs on site that are coordinated by the Boys & Girls Club. The Club will continue to serve youth and teens in grades 1-12 at their Clubhouse located at 1600 Minnesota Ave. NW after school and during the summer.

The school-based site, one of three 21st Century Community Learning Centers operated by the Club and Bemidji Area Schools, will open on September 5 in partnership with Kids & Company and fully on September 25. “We are thrilled to collaborate with our school district to serve those students who need us most. We have dreamed of expanding our Club services to another site in our community, and are excited to realize that dream this fall,” shares Andrea Kent, Boys & Girls Club executive director.

The site at J.W. Smith will be operated with support of the grant received by the Club and school district, which supports operations for the next three school years. The Club provides after-school programs focused on academic success, healthy lifestyles, and good character development.

For more information, contact Morgan Morgenstern, Unit Director, Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area at morgan.morgenstern@nullbgcbemidji.org or 218-444-4171 ext. 112.

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Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area provides after-school and summer programs annually to more than 260 youth, ages 6-18, plus teen nights year-round. Nutritious snacks are served after-school as well as lunch, M-F, in the summer. For a nominal fee, kids find a fun and safe place to build academic success, healthy lifestyles and good character & citizenship. The Boys & Girls Club of the Bemidji Area is located at 1600 Minnesota Avenue. For more information, see bgcbemidji.org or call (218) 444-4171.