New Slidell Boys & Girls Club Advisory Council Looks to Build a Stronger Future for Local Youth

New Slidell Boys & Girls Club Advisory Council Looks to Build a Stronger Future for Local Youth

The Slidell Boys & Girls Club is entering a new chapter with a newly formed Parish Advisory Council focused on strengthening the local club, increasing community involvement and creating more opportunities for the more than 100 children it serves.

The council brings together local business owners, professionals and community members who will work alongside Boys & Girls Clubs leadership to identify needs at the Slidell facility, raise local support and make the community more aware of the programs available to area children.

Pictured from left to right are Tommy Brunell, Scott Esteve, Ira Pitfield, Tom Abney, Angel Nelson and Gregory Johnson.

Dawn Abney Glorioso and Fefe Abney are also members of the council but were not pictured.

Angel Nelson serves as director.

A Renewed Focus on Slidell

One of the council’s priorities will be ensuring the Slidell community has a greater voice in the future of its local Boys & Girls Club.

During an organizational meeting, Boys & Girls Clubs leadership discussed the importance of financial transparency and rebuilding community trust following challenges under previous leadership.

A major point of discussion was what happens to money raised locally.

Leadership confirmed that funds raised specifically for the Slidell club are designated for Slidell and separately tracked within the organization’s financial system. Financial information will also be presented to the advisory council during its regular meetings so members can see how money is being raised and spent.

The chair of the Slidell advisory council will also have representation on the organization’s corporate board, providing the local club with a voice within the larger organization.

Immediate Needs at the Slidell Club

The council already has several areas it hopes to address.

The Slidell facility is in need of repairs and improvements, including work involving its air-conditioning system. Community support has already helped address some needs, including a donated replacement front door.

The council hopes to develop relationships with local businesses, contractors and organizations willing to contribute services, materials or financial support toward improving the facility.

Leadership is also exploring grant opportunities that could provide significant funding for future renovations.

Supporting More Than 100 Local Children

The Slidell club currently serves more than 100 children and provides programs designed to give them a safe and positive environment outside of school.

Food will be another important area of focus.

Children participating in the club receive dinner and a snack each day, and the council discussed ways to strengthen the food program and help cover gaps between seasonal programs.

The group also wants to bring more members of the Slidell community directly into the club.

Local professionals, business owners and community leaders could be invited to speak with children about their careers, experiences and opportunities available to them as they grow older.

Bringing More Attention to the Club

Despite the work being done inside the facility, many residents may not realize how many children the Slidell Boys & Girls Club serves or the programs it provides.

The new council hopes to change that.

Increasing public awareness, highlighting the accomplishments of local children and showing the community where help is needed will be a significant part of the council’s work moving forward.

Members also discussed developing an annual fundraising event and building stronger partnerships with local businesses, churches, civic organizations and community leaders.

All advisory council members and volunteers will undergo annual background checks.

The council plans to meet monthly as it begins identifying projects and developing fundraising and community outreach efforts.

The overall goal is simple: bring more people together to support the Slidell Boys & Girls Club and make sure local children have a safe place, positive influences and opportunities to succeed.

There is plenty of work ahead, but there is also a renewed sense of energy surrounding the Slidell club.

And this is just the beginning.