Jeff Rea's Story:
My involvement with the Boys and Girls Club began nearly a decade ago in Mishawaka. At the time Mishawaka Schools were considering introducing The Club at a local school in need of an afterschool program to help kids. The Club was introduced at Battell Elementary School and the transformation began almost instantly. Over the years I had a chance to look in on the progress, occasionally disguised in an Easter Bunny Costume or a Santa Suit. (In those days, for some reason they thought I was perfect for that Santa Suit.) I was a frequent special guest at Thanksgiving and Christmas meals at the Battell School site, pitching in to scoop mash potatoes and green beans when necessary. (That was a tough sell for some reason, and I guess they thought if anyone could “sell” them, I could.) I participated often in interviewing candidates for youth of the year and was a frequent competitor in Great Big Kid activities. Each experience introduced me to some wonderful young people and some dedicated and committed leaders, working hard to make a difference each and every day.
When offered the opportunity to participate in the Great Big Kid Contest this year, I couldn’t pass it up. I’ve seen first-hand the difference The Club makes, and I know the dollars raised in this “friendly” competition are needed and will be put to great use here in our community. In addition, this opportunity has introduced me to an incredible young man in Tashawn, and we’ve had a great time getting ready for the competition. Tashawn has a bright future ahead of him, and I know he is going to accomplish some great things! The Boys and Girls Club has been an important influence in Tashawn’s life and now Tashawn has become an important role model for other kids at The Club. Tashawn and I would be honored to have you vote!
