Mental Health + Expression

Learning Lost + Empowerment

On the fifth and final episode of The Magic Within, we address the pressing issue of learning loss among youth and explore how Boys & Girls Club is actively part of the solution. Shawsville Middle School Principal Brandon Keith joins us to discuss the impact of disrupted education and the importance of after-school support. Club CEO Rebekah Meadows shares about the innovative programs implemented by the organization to bridge the learning gap. Hear a heartwarming success story from Club parent Rebekah Walthall about how Boys & Girls Club has partnered with her to foster a love for learning in her son Joey, empowering him to reach his fullest potential. Catch up with Montgomery County High School Club member and Club Youth of the Year, Ashton, to hear about the magical moments she has experienced as a Club member and how she is empowered to finish high school strong. Get ready to unlock the power of knowledge together! ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Acceptance + Inclusion

On episode 4, we are embarking on a powerful exploration of the crucial topic of acceptance and how Boys & Girls Club is a driving force in creating more inclusive communities. Hear from CEO Rebekah Meadows and Director of Operations, Calvin Curry, as well as Tori Ratliff-Ives who courageously shares with us about her own personal battle growing up feeling different and how she now serves as a mentor to local young people. Through inspiring stories and uplifting experiences from one Club family, discover how the Club fosters inclusion and empowers local youth to thrive and make their mark on the world. On this episode, we celebrate diversity, unity, and the transformative impact of the Club's initiatives in fostering a sense of belonging for all members.  ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

"Love Beyond Bounds"

A poem written and produced for Empathy Project by Bryan Hancock for Nicolas Lee & the Lee Family ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Violence + Safety

On this third episode of "The Magic Within" we confront the pressing issue of violence in our community. Hear from Brandi Lazare, Community Engagement Specialist with Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office, and Boys & Girls Clubs of Southwest Virginia’s Director of Operations Calvin Curry as we explore how the Club plays a vital role in being part of the solution. Chris Roberts and Bryan Hancock talk about The Empathy Project, a community initiative that has been shared with Club kids to help them understand and relate to peers dealing with adversity. Mackenzie Chitwood of Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare shares insights through data about the obstacles youth face and her personal experience engaging with Club kids. Through these stories, we uncover the transformative work being done at the Club to create a safe community and empower our youth to choose paths of peace and positivity. Let's jump in! ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Mental Health + Expression

On episode 2 we're exploring the vital topic of youth mental health. Hear stories about the powerful impact, nurturing environments, community support, and programs that foster expression have on young minds. Join us as we chat with Decca Knight, club mentor Bryan Hancock, and staff and kids from the club. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.