East Boston: Recognizing Two Key Team Members

By Bro. Bob Metell, SDB

(East Boston, MA – April 2) – The success of any ministry, program, or event starts with the dedicated people who work diligently behind the scenes. This week, I would like to highlight two dedicated individuals who provide funding and support to the Boys and Girls Club: my good friend, Jimmy, the Club’s business manager, and Anita, the marketing and public relations director.

I’ve had the pleasure of knowing and working with Jimmy for many years. Jimmy is always available to the staff and Club members. Unlike other business managers I have worked with, Jimmy takes the time to mingle and spend time with the staff and Club members.

Like many of the staff members, Jimmy grew up in the Club; he knows many of the members’ families. He is a semi-retired local businessman who could spend his time playing golf or basketball, but prefers to be with the youngsters and oversee the Club's finances.

Anita works behind the scenes, where she writes grants and plans, and organizes fundraising events, as well as promotes the Club in the community. My first job in the Club was to serve as a grant writer and development director; therefore, I know the difficulties of finding grants and donors. It is an important task and often overlooked because it is mainly done behind the scenes. Like Jimmy, she also enjoys spending time with the Club members.

As I hiked in the mist and drizzle this past weekend, I spotted blossoms on the wild cherry and crabapple trees, and seals in Boston Harbor, all reminders that spring is the season of new growth and life. With that in mind, I began thinking about the many youngsters who come to us in need of something to hope for. Let us be a beacon of hope for the many young people who live in a state of fear and despair.