Samantha R., a remarkable 7th-grade student from Soledad, has been part of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County’s South County programming since elementary school. Her journey with BGCMC is a testament to the power of encouragement, support, and a safe space for personal growth. During her 6th-grade year, Samantha participated in the SMART Moves: Emotional Wellness program. At the time, she often entered the space feeling sad, sometimes in tears, and was hesitant to engage with staff during check-ins. Her shyness made it difficult for her to open up, and she rarely felt comfortable sharing her thoughts.
Fast forward to this fall, Samantha—now a 7th grader at Main Street Middle School—was walking down the hallway when BGCMC staff recognized her and invited her to join the SMART Girls program. This time, she eagerly accepted. Week after week, Samantha transformed before their eyes, becoming a regular participant who actively volunteered and engaged with staff. Her confidence blossomed, and she found her voice among her peers. Samantha shared, “I like being here. I feel safe without any of the girls judging me.” This heartfelt statement deeply moved the BGCMC South County team, who had the privilege of witnessing her incredible growth over the past two years. Samantha’s story is a shining example of how a supportive environment can empower young individuals to overcome challenges and embrace their potential.