The Boys and Girls Club in Hilton Head Wants to be Known for Their Community Impact
In Hilton Head, it has been said that the Boys and Girls Club is the island’s best-kept secret; a statement that the club’s director Ryan Wise is keen to dispel. Founded on the principles of academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles, this club plays a treasured role in the lives of local students.
A Safe and Stimulating Environment for Children
During the school year, children deposited at the coastal haven can anticipate a fun-filled and secure environment from 2:45 to 6 o’clock daily. A substantial portion of these students, keen on sharing quality time with their peers or seizing experiences not readily available at home, voluntarily enlist for club activities.
Ryan Wise, the club’s director, is adamant on creating an opportunity for every kid and is eager to share this message with the community. ‘’We don’t want to be a secret,” he voices, ”Instead, we want to be an accessible opportunity for every child’’.
Varied Programs to Nourish Interests
The Boys and Girls Club, or BGC, initiates structure around its founding principles, allotting daily periods for students to immerse themselves in these ideals. After a meal and obligatory homework time, the kids can elect an activity aligning with their interests.
The numerous clubs include a drama room encouraging public speaking and self-expression skills, a pond for the exploration of fishing techniques, as well as a sports field buzzing daily with soccer activities. Dedicated spaces for sports and recreation, reading, and technology skills, among others, ensure all interests are catered for.
Specialized Programs for Personal Development
The BGC exhibits a keen interest in the long-term growth and personal development of all its members. Special programs, such as “Passport To Manhood,” aimed at boys aged 8-12 years and “Smart Girls,” for girls, are also available. Ryan Wise clarifies that embeddings such programs into the club’s initiatives shatters the stigma that BGC is a fallback for families without other options.
Geared Towards Community Involvement
Wise explains, “We’re a resource for the community regardless of income or opportunity,” we do things here that can benefit all kids and we’re a safe place where parents can trust their kids are learning and growing.” And true to this, the club encourages its attendees to be a part of community initiatives. This is evident in their recent back-to-school drive, supplying not just their members but also non-members within the community with essential school items.
Concentrating on Teen and Older Kids Engagement
Ensuring that teens and older kids have an engaging and educational place to spend their time is also a critical goal of the club’s ongoing initiatives. Recent activities include a visit to the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina and the chance to volunteer at the RBC Heritage PGA event.
To become part of this enriching initiative, the Hilton Head Boys and Girls club is still accepting members for the 2024-25 school year. For more information, visit and tour the campus for a first-hand experience of the opportunities they provide. To schedule a tour or find out more, visit bgchiltonhead.org.
