2019 Annual Report

1

MARATHON IS PROUD TO SUPPORT
STEM programs
for the
BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS of Skagit County
From engineers to pipefitters, chemists to accountants, IT specialists to welders,
Marathon’s success relies on our ability to recruit and retain employees with
exceptional STEM-related skills. As an employer constantly seeking out top-talent
and as a socially responsible corporate citizen, supporting STEM education-related
programs is the cornerstone of Marathon’s community investment strategy.
We are proud to collaborate with the Boys & Girls Club of Skagit County on the
establishment of the Marathon STEM Academy, and further its mission to enable all
young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
2

Friends,
Hello! I am very honored to be your Board
Chair for 2020 and 2021. We are moving
forward in exciting ways and I look forward
to being a part of that. This organization has
grown and blossomed into something our
community should be truly proud of. We
had some challenges last year, but I know
we have been able to work through them
and come out as a stronger organization
overall because of it.
I joined the Board after being a supporter and participating through the Gala
Committee. I attended the 2015 Gala and could see how much our community
loved our Clubs, and how much the children we support truly need the Clubs
in their lives. It was direct conversations with the Club kids running the games
and volunteering their own time at the Gala that hooked me as a Club supporter
for life. Seeing the caliber of staff that we are fortunate enough to have, only
reinforced that. I joined the board at the beginning of 2016, and I have loved
seeing the growth of the organization over this time and am thankful for the
board members that I serve with.
It has been a privilege to have Holly Shannon as our Board Chair for the last
two years. So many great things have been accomplished in that time, and I
look forward to continuing that momentum through my own term. Great progress
has been made toward “Opportunity 2021,” our Strategic Plan, and Holly
has been a great leader to ensure progress continues. Thank you, Holly, for all
of the time and talent you have given our organization and our youth.
Our accomplishments in the last year are truly amazing. We have been able
to open new Clubs in Burlington, and see continued improvement in all of our
sites. The impact of these Clubs in their communities is exactly what our mission
is all about. The section in this report on our Concrete site, now through its
first full year, is a perfect example of this. We are making deliberate movement
in our mission: To enable all young people, especially those who need us most,
to reach their full potential, as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
All of that progress is made because we have supporters like you that believe in
us. I want to thank YOU for believing in our organization, and for your continued
support and interest in the Clubs. We would not accomplish the things we do
without the volunteers, staff, and community supporters that we are so fortunate
to have. I am truly honored to serve as your Board Chair for the next two years
and look forward to all that we can accomplish together.
Respectfully,
Tina Asp
2020 Board Chair
Image360
BOARD OF
DIRECTORS
President
TINA ASP
Image360
President-Elect
ROB MARTIN
Retired - Chinook Enterprises
Vice President-Historical
MIKE GUBRUD
Mike Gubrud Farmers Insurance Agency
Treasurer
ERIC JOHNSON
Stiles Law
Secretary
BRIAN SONEDA
Retired - Library Services / Government
Past President
HOLLY SHANNON
Carson Law Group
Members
DR. CARL BRUNER
MVSD Superintendent
PAT BARRETT
Barrett Financial, LTD
KRISTEN KELTZ
Hotel Services Group, LLC
MARK NILSON
Retired, Education
SARAH CRIST
Shell Puget Sound Refinery
MACKENZIE REIDER
Janicki Industries
BILL OVERBY
Skagit Valley College
MIKE DYBERG
Dyberg Aviation
MARK LAWRENCE
Simply Yards Landscaping
DAN MILFRED
Pacific Woodtech
Board Emerita
ANNETTE BOOTH
Booth Insurance/Allstate Insurance Co.
3

Dear Club Friends and Family,
Kids say the darnedest things. We all
know that. After 15 years, one would think
I wouldn’t be surprised anymore, but it
always happens.
The printing & mailing of
this report was donated
by K&H Integrated Print
Solutions.
THANK YOU
TO OUR MANY
SUPPORTERS!!!
Boxes and Bears
Brian & Sara Fish
Mark & Julie Wenzel
Holland America Line, Inc
Boots Bar and Grill
Peoples Bank
Larry & Susan Forsythe
Fred Buckenmeyer
Charlie & Ute Collins
Bob Harpeng
Domino’s Pizza Sedro Woolley
Baird Foundation, Inc
Erica Littlewood
Mary Perry
Lakeside Industries
Angela Speer
H.D. & Dona Cowan
Brian Balopoulos
Kimberlee M Ray
InFaith Community Foundation
Chris & Heidi Parker
Von & Elizabeth Kuehn
Dianna Bodin
North Coast Credit Union
Arlyn Livingston
Liza Bott
Judy & Ed Hjort
JJ Pawn
Strandberg Custom Homes & Design
Tom & Cathy LaCroix
Stacey Salyer
James Jensen
Gretchen Eide
Duane & Lynn Henson
Nicholas Stowe & Carolyn Moulton
Mark & Deanna Collins
Kevin Jones
Recently, our Concrete Club hosted a
Congressional Visit from Representative
Suzan DelBene (D-1WA). During a
conversation with our teens, she asked
about their favorite experiences since the
Club opened in October 2018, just over a
year prior. All of them were quick to point to field trips and external learning
opportunities. What caught me truly off-guard was the answer from Lane,
one of Concrete’s first Junior Youth of the Year finalists—his favorite ‘field
trip’ was going to the Great Futures Gala in November. When prompted by
the Congresswoman as to why, his answer filled my heart with joy and my
throat with laughter.
For Lane, it was all overwhelming at first. There were nearly as many people
at the event as the number of individuals that live in his town. To have
them all in one room was intimidating. He said he warmed to it, though. He
was helping people to understand the games, giving out tickets to winners,
and sometimes ‘helping’ people to make sure they won. He saw how many
people were there to support the Boys & Girls Clubs, and realized people
cared about making sure more kids could get the help they needed, as he
did with math. The tutoring and homework help at the Club helped improve
his grades and abilities to the point that he was able to take high school
math as an 8th grader, and join HS band, which is very important to him.
It was the final part of his answer that really made me laugh. He was really
impressed by the number of millionaires and billionaires living in Skagit
County, giving all that money to the Clubs. He didn’t know that many people
existed, let alone in his community. While we certainly have guests that
attend our event that may fall into the millionaire category, we’re pretty sure
we don’t have any billionaires, yet.
Most of our supporters would probably consider themselves middle class, a
fact that was shared with Lane and his friends, and confirmed by the Congresswoman.
That opened up a further conversation about the importance
of being involved and giving back to the community, and another seed was
planted. Lane is passionate about aviation, and I have no doubt when he
finds a career in the skies, that someday he will be attending a Gala and
will think back on his time in Clubs with fondness, as he supports a new
generation reaching for their own Great Future, Whatever It Takes.
Yours in service,
Ron McHenry
CEO/Executive Director
4

IN THIS REPORT
LETTER FROM OUR 2020 BOARD CHAIR ...3
BOARD OF DIRECTORS ...3
LETTER FROM OUR CEO ...4
THANK YOU SUPPORTERS ...4-7, 14, 17-19, 23, 25, 28, 37-38
LETTER FROM OUR 2019 BOARD CHAIR ...6
REPRESENTATIVES VISIT CLUBS ...8-11
TEEN VOICES ...12-14
BY THE NUMBERS: 2019 REGULAR ATTENDANCE ...15
PUTTING IT ALL INTO PRACTICE ...16-18
NEW LEADERSHIP IN BURLINGTON ...20-23
SAFETY: PRIORITY NUMBER ONE ...24-25
A CASE FOR CLUBS ...26-28
BY THE NUMBERS: 2019 YEAR-END FINANCIALS...30-31
GREAT FUTURES GALA: A SLAM DUNK! ...32-33
BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: ROB MARTIN ...34-35
YOUTH OF THE YEAR ...36-38
Photography in the 2019 Annual Report was contributed by Sarah Arquitt, Cloud 9 Photography,
Sattva Photography, and Tammy Findlay.
LeVisage Wellness Center & Spa
Bob’s Burgers & Brew
John Rentschler
All About Hearing
Boyd & Ginny Bode
Kohl’s
Stiles Law Inc., P.S.
Donald & Colleen Slack
Roger & Kerri Helgeson
Crawford Garage Doors
Michael & Debbie Headrick
Homer & Rosette Dawson
Randy Geoghegan
Jonn & Anne Lunsford
Warren & Linda Walz
Rallye Auto Sales, Inc.
Lisa TenEyck
Alyeska Design, LLC
Edco, Inc.
Jeremie Serrato
Dennis Parent
Andrew Mayer
Kristin Schmidt
Alaska Airlines
Patrick Dougher
Kerry & Kimberly Dean
Andrew Flores
Geoffrey & Rise Hirsch
Skagit Valley Marine Corps League-Detach.
1043
Avalon Golf Links
Ellen Kaiser
Christine Youngquist
Eric & Emily Schuh
Rite Aid Foundation KidCents
Jill & Daniel Boudreau
Entertainment News NW
Sharon Wright
James & Julia Moores
Alex Cobb
Albert & Sue Berger
Darrell & Kitty Mintz
Bernadette Halliday
Central Moving & Storage
Ken & Jenni Morrison
Claude & Marilyn Flagg
Peggy Stowe
Jordan & Kimberly Joy Mellich
Boundary Bay Brewing Co.
Brayer Insurance
Pat Hammond
Corion Landscape
Barb & Casey Thompson
Michael & Kelsey Stannert
Kendall & Nancy Gentry
LaDonna Krautkremer & Dennis Cullen
Carol Herbert
Matthew Boespflug
Jennifer Berdine
Ryan Pflueger
Kaptein’s Ace Hardware
John Silvia, III
Roland and Ramie King
Monica Craig
Coconut Kenny’s
Mary Ryan
Justin & Katey Von Hagel
Swinomish Casino & Lodge
continued on page... 6
5

Dr. Teak Martin
Chuckanut Brewery
Whitney Eskes
Tara Dowd & Steven Nelson
Frank Marzec
Germaine Kornegay
Christ the King Church - Anacortes
Brad Windler
Sue Matto
Safeway
Mike & Barb Matheson
Marc & Judy Ambers
Liz & Steve Stout
Island Hospital
Mike & Dana Webb
Paula Brownrigg
Jitterbug Coffee
Tony & Tina Asp
Nancy Andrich
Amy & Eugene Hong
B.J. Larson
Stephanie Cufley
Vicki Stasch
Heritage Bank
Alex Harmon
Sharon Beach
Ann Thompson
Corey Lux
City of Anacortes
Frances Hansen
Mike & Suzanne Casey
Dick Sanders
Donald Bienvenue & Carol Scherer
Pola Kelley
Chuck & Renee Roozekrans
Ian & Michelle Fee
Terje & Jessica Culp
Rachael Ward Sparwasser
Carl & Yulia Garrison
Gabriela Flores
Hampton Inn & Suites
Pat Grenfell
Dan Milfred
Aslan Brewing Co.
Erwin Stroosma & Kathy O’Connell-Stoosma
Anne & Jack Middleton
Jason & Bobbilyn Hogge
Jessie Edwards
T Ray’s
Michelle Eaton
Tom Griffin & Lani Donohue
Wallace & Associates
Ed Perry
Ipolitas Dunaravich
Michelle Worley
Hugh & Stacy Pierce
Farmers Equipment
Anacortes Rotary Club
Michael & Jennifer Harlan
TruckVault, Inc.
Susie Bell
John Forsyth
Amazon Smile
Carol Scanes
Kathleen & Jim Payant
Jennifer Hickman
Scott and Venise Dills
Mike & Laura Taylor
Tony Smith
Dear Friends,
Having just finished up my second year as Board Chair, I have reflected
upon my term and all that our organization has accomplished. I was honored
to serve alongside my amazing fellow board members, our fantastic
and tireless staff, our wonderful volunteers, and community partnerships.
Through a combined effort of all, we added two Club sites in Concrete and
then two more sites in Burlington. These additional sites allow us to provide
much needed opportunities to our youth, especially those who need it most.
In addition to expanding our reach, our organization took major strides
toward increasing safety, programming, staff training, and strengthening
our organization through board development and succession planning for
key roles in the organization. It is because of your continued and generous
support that we were able to accomplish all of these things. Thank you.
I was honored over the last year to participate in Youth of the Year judging
for the Sedro-Woolley Club, and as a guest speaker for Career Launch. I
also attended our state Youth of the Year Award Ceremony. Seeing firsthand
the impact our programs and staff have on our youth is the biggest
reward of all. I encourage all of you to attend our events, volunteer in our
Clubs, or take a Club tour so you can see the impact of your support on
our members.
Our new board chair, Tina Asp, is a true asset to our organization and
highly motivated to continue our mission and implement our strategic plan.
I look forward to my continued service on the board and working with Tina,
our fellow board members, our staff, volunteers, and community partners in
providing opportunities for our youth.
Respectfully yours,
Holly Shannon
2019 Board Chair
Carson Law Group
6

Save the Dates
JUNE
19th or 20th
Tickets at:
www.skagitclubs.org
Ruth Richardson
Debra Peterson
Erinn & Scott Welliver
Fred & Sharon Fisher
Jim & Mary Jermyn
Dean Snider
Kurt & Brittany Swanson
Debbie and Josh Wolfe
Evan & Heather Greenlaw
Brock & Jenny Veltri
Rhonda Tingley
Don & Gena McDermott
Chuck & Toni Ruhl
Burlington-Edison School District
Ferry Sreet Antique Mall
Marni Shockey
The Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue
Foundation, Inc.
Simply Yards Landscape & Design
Teresa Johnson
Bart & Patty Smith
Steve Leckenby
Kim & Shane Walley
Warren Gilbert
George & Suzanne Santino
Kristi Coy
Kevin & Debbie Anderson
Tina Shields
Mark Miller
Jim & Joanne Hallett
Dale & Susan Ragan
Brock & Katherine Stiles
Anthony & Kimberlee Smith
Jason and Valerie Locke
Josh & Stephanie Hoines
Northwest Linings & Geotextile Products, Inc.
Kevin and Ginger Harris
Lorenzo’s Mexican Restaurant
Tye & Jill Hodgin
Monte Petersen
Columbia Distributing
Helen Baumgartner
Benjamin & Crystal Eddy
Microsoft Matching Gifts Program
Barbara Dahlstedt
Erin Baker’s Wholesome Baked Goods
Kristine Cleaves-Wollan
Dustin & Dreabon Knowles
John & Denise Hanstad
Lynn Oliver
Envy Salon
Kyla Whiton
Ann Fran and Rich Sandeen
By Design Auto Group, Inc.
Wycoff Insurance
Anthony’s Restaurants
Frontier Ford
Brandmuscle
David & Mary Lynne Courtney
Marci & Matthew Fankhauser
Beta Sigma Phi
Diana Pearson
John & Mary Ferlin
Claudette Gubrud
Jerry & Elsie Annett
Peter & Laurel Browning
Bryan & Carol Harrison
continued on page... 14
7

REPRESENTATIVES
VISIT CLUBS
Not only are these visits an opportunity for our organization to give voice to our needs, it’s also meaningful
for our youth, who are eager to give tours of their Club and ask all their questions about government service.
Advocacy is a critical part of Club work.
Partnering with a broad and diverse base
of stakeholders is the key to sustaining
Club operations over time and deepening
the organization’s ties to
the community. Advocacy
focuses on increasing
public awareness and
support for the critical
work that Clubs do in
preparing our young
people to succeed. This
is most evident in planning
long-term projects or initiatives that require
community-wide support.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County has been
incredibly fortunate to celebrate strong support
from local, state, and federal representatives. This
plays out most clearly in special opportunities that
[S]trong ties to our representatives has
given a stronger voice to our youth, as
they comment on the experiences they
face, and their goals for the future.
we’re able to provide to our kids, specifically, targeted
academic mentoring interventions, great
food & nutrition access, and our six 21st Century
Community Learning Center Club sites in Mount
Vernon, Burlington, and
Concrete.
More generally, strong
ties to our representatives
has given a stronger
voice to our youth,
as they comment on the
experiences they face,
and their goals for the future. Workforce development
& skill training opportunities, mental health
challenges, and the opioid crisis continue to stand
at the forefront of these concerns—impacting
youth across Skagit County, from Concrete to Anacortes,
Mount Vernon to Sedro-Woolley. In every
continued on page... 10
8

Top left: Sen. Keith Wagoner eats lunch with Sedro-Woolley Club members. This page: Rep. Rick Larsen discusses Club operations with Clubs’ CEO
Ron McHenry & Sedro-Woolley Program Director Jamie Street while Club staff Desni Fonoimoana leads an art project with Club members. 2019
Youth of the Year, Kyla Whiton poses with Sen. Liz Lovelett at the Anacortes Club. A community forum with Rep. Rick Larsen. Rep. Carolyn Eslick
shares with a group of Concrete Club members.
9

representative visit, Club members speak to how
these challenges impact their personal situation.
It’s always exciting to bring the Club voice to
local, state, and national government—to bring
light to the lives and experiences of our kids. And
related to this work, strongly reviewing the legal
& administrative impacts that local, state, and
national initiatives have on Club operations, and
our ability to serve kids, is something that we’re
quick to address. As a complex organization, serving
a diverse youth & family population, we see a
charge to advocate strongly for the best laws. State
Days of Advocacy in Olympia, and National Days
of Advocacy in Washington, DC, gave a consistent
lens to this work.
Proud to support Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County
(360)757-2740 • steppingstonesgarden.com
The Clubs were fortunate to host
state representatives Keith Wagoner,
Liz Lovelett, and Carolyn Eslick
in their district Clubs, along with
national Rep. Rick Larsen in 2019.
The Clubs were fortunate to host state representatives
Keith Wagoner, Liz Lovelett, and Carolyn Eslick
in their district Clubs, along with national Rep.
Rick Larsen in 2019. These special visits in Anacortes,
Sedro-Woolley, and Concrete all provided
an opportunity to bring local partners together for
constructive conversations on not only the specific
challenges facing our youth, challenges for Club
operations, and how Clubs are making a difference,
but also general collaboration around community
health, and increased local opportunities.
We are appreciative of all the work our local, state,
and national representatives do in government, and
look forward to continued work in strongly advocating
for our kids, and the success of Clubs.
ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT
Promise Big. Deliver Bigger
for the kids of Skagit County
Chad Fisher Construction
cfisherconstruction.com | 360.757.0580
Proud To Support The
Boys & Girls Clubs of
Skagit County
11

A blustery day, just before embarking on a trip over the pass on their way to the Youth of the Year Retreat. From Left: Patrick Dougher (Sedro-Woolley
Teen Coordinator), Logan T., Olivia E., Paula B., Lauren A., Johanna G., Zoie S., and Kyla Whiton (2019 Youth of the Year & Anacortes Staff member).
TEEN VOICES
In the following excerpts taken from essays written for the Youth of the Year Program, Club teens offer a glimpse
into Club life, their struggles & their triumphs as they look ahead & make preparations for their GREAT Futures.
Zoie is 16 years old and has attended the
Mount Vernon Boys & Girls Club since she
was 6 years old. She has always been
very active with the Club, has participated
in the Youth of the Year program for the past two
years, and was recently named the Mount Vernon
Club’s Youth of the Year. Zoie can often be
seen helping the younger Club members by serving
snacks & leading games. She participates in
her Club’s Keystone program, a service program
where her group goes beyond the Club to help
others in need. This year they have been busy
putting together items for the Skagit Valley Herald
Christmas fund.
Right beside her is Zoie’s friend Johanna, who is also
a long-time attendee of the Club. Johanna has participated
in Youth of the Year program every year since
age 14, as well as the Junior program prior. Although
only one participant can ultimately be named Youth
of the Year, the girls do not view each other as competition.
They build each other up and support each
other whether it be triumph or hardship. Although
their backgrounds could be considered to be very
different, both struggled with feeling less-than and
being bullied during their school years.
“I was bullied growing up. They made fun of me for
everything and anything they could—my size, the
way I looked, the fact that I am a tomboy and dress
more masculine,” recalled Zoie.
“Since English wasn’t my first language, I struggled
with something that everyone else knew: basic
English. It didn’t matter that I was fluent in Spanish,
all I saw was that I was different from those
around me and it made certain things harder for
me. I still remember the embarrassment that I felt
every time I got called to go to ELL Speech Therapy,”
said Johanna.
12

Both girls began to find a safe refuge in the Club.
“At the Club, it was like all the negative stereotypes,
embarrassment, and thoughts about being an outcast
didn’t exist. The staff make sure you are included
with every activity, regardless of your background,”
said Johanna.
“The Boys and Girls
Club was my safe place
because of the way the
staff took the time to ask
me how I was doing and
cared enough to pick up
on the different faces I
make, depending on my
mood. At the Club, no
one was going to make
fun of me and I didn’t
have to be scared of being yelled at. When I was at
the Club, I could just be me,” added Zoie.
Logan, who has been a member of the Sedro-Woolley
Club for 6 years, volunteers at many of the
Club’s fundraising events. At the recent golf tournament,
he was quick to help guests by carrying
their golf clubs up to their carts. Logan is a regular
at the Sedro-Woolley Teen Center. The teen center
there is unique because they have their own
building separate from the younger kids. They take
pride and ownership of their space, which is why
volunteering to help with fundraisers is so important
to the teens there.
“When I walk up the steps and through the blue door
into the Sedro-Woolley Boys & Girls Club I can feel
the stress from the overwhelming weight of school
melt away. The Club has become like my treehouse.
A treehouse is a place where friends get together and
share with each other. Tell stories, tell jokes, or even
just hang out in their own space away from the glaring
eyes of the world,” explained Logan.
Patrick Dougher is the Teen Coordinator at the
Sedro-Woolley Club and has been working for Skagit
Clubs since 2005. This longevity has been incredibly
meaningful to Club members. Patrick is a trusted
mentor to many of these youth and a big part of why
they feel safe and accepted at the Club.
“At the Club, it was like all the negative
stereotypes, embarrassment, and thoughts
about being an outcast didn’t exist. The
staff make sure you are included with every
activity, regardless of your background,”
~Johanna, Mount Vernon Club member.
Paula, another Sedro-Woolley Club member is in her
third year of participating in Youth of the Year, and
was recently named the 2020 Skagit County Youth
of the Year. Patrick has been there to mentor her
through the process each year. “Although Patrick is
always making me laugh, he also helps me be proud
of who I am. Whenever
I have bad days,
because I got made fun
of or just felt sad, he was
there to talk to me and
make me laugh. Even
on days where he didn’t
know what I was going
through, he made my
day one hundred times
better than it had been.”
said Paula.
It is through the Youth of the Year program that Club
members develop their own personal voice. They
examine their struggles, set-backs, and challenges
they have overcome. They begin to look towards the
future and discover what they are passionate about.
“I have always been into art. From my kindergarten
finger paintings to my current works, which are
mostly sculptures and drawings, it’s been a part
of who I am. Later in life, I plan to pursue a career
in the arts. I’d like to own my own business and
I am thinking about being a graphic designer or
doing pottery. Being at the Club has shown me how
important it is for me to express my personality in
my daily life. I want to be able to incorporate that
into my career.” said Lauren, who frequents the
Sedro-Woolley Teen Center.
“As a middle child I didn’t always feel like I was heard,
but when I speak publicly I can finally show my voice.
Being the president of Keystone has shown me how
to be a good leader. Going on field trips to volunteer
has showed me I care about helping others.” said
Olivia. Olivia attends the Sedro-Woolley Club and is
in her second year of participating in the Youth of the
Year program. Last March, she was able to attend the
Washington State Youth of the Year Dinner where she
was able to hear youth speak from all over the state.
continued on page... 14
13

14
Robert Gruber
Virginia Smiley
Susan Wilson & Eric Hall
Monica & Scott Pavlovich
Mark Bentley
Douglas & Mary Lu McFadyen
Scott & Karen Terrell
Leading Edge Property Management
Erik & Debbie Pedersen
Andrea & Edward Fifield
Heath Henderson
Richard & Linda Nelson
Skagit Community Foundation
Bay Baby Produce
Thompson’s Greenhouse
Integrity Safety
Wendy Gray & Mac Madenwald
Jeff & Lori Maulin
The Truss Company
Timothy and Jen Absten
Jesse Ellenz
Mount Vernon School District #320
Frederick & Elaine Morton
Ivett Cano
Sara & Matthew Gill
Audrey Bouwens
Janie & Ken Van Liew
Mark Roe
Laurie Gere
Barrett Financial, Ltd.
Daniel & Charmie Dibble
Janicki Industries
David Ryberg & Joan Penney
Jack & Joan Hilde
Clinton & Kerri Carlton
Dale & Randi Freidig
Cookson Beecher & Dean Harrington
Chelsey & Tiffany Olsen
Judy McManus
Peter Johnson
Dwayne Lane’s North Cascade Ford
Charles Fine Jewelry
Marjorie Kilbreath
Showline Beagles
Bob’s Chowder Bar
The Skagit Casino & Resort
R.W. Baird
Janet Ebersole
Lou Ann Davis
Anne Perry
Mark & Nancy Crawford
Debbie Cassel
DaVita
Brandon & Carrie Williams
Shirlee Christensen
Alaska Marine Lines
Leroy and Marna Hanneman
Kari & Joe Doss
Jack & Carole Straathof
Tim Schofield
Michael & Susan Cann
Nancy Rytand-Carey & Michael Carey
Bill & Sophia Johansen
Eric & Terry-Jo Norman
Shesha Zavala
Stowe’s Shoes & Clothing
Astrid Aamot
Home Depot
continued on page... 17
Through the Junior Youth of the Year program, younger members get an
opportunity to practice writing speeches and speaking in front of large
audiences. Lane, who is 13 years old and in the 8th grade at Concrete Middle
School, is an ambassador for his Club. Last Fall, he spoke to a crowd
of almost 500 at the Great Futures Gala. He shared about the difficulty he
was having with math and how that limited his opportunities to participate
in extracurricular activities at the school. Since the Club opened a little over
a year ago, Lane has been attending regularly. He participated in the Concrete
Club’s first Youth of the Year program as a Junior participant.
“Boys & Girls Club has really helped me in
school. I was really struggling with math. I
couldn’t understand math at all. My mom &
dad heard about the Club that was just getting
started and I decided to go. Soon my grade
moved up from almost failing, to a B+.”
~Lane, Concrete Club member.
“Boys & Girls Club has really helped me in school. I was really struggling
with math. I couldn’t understand math at all. My mom & dad heard about
the Club that was just getting started and I decided to go. Soon my grade
moved up from almost failing, to a B+. Then I was able to move up to
advanced high school math and now I’m able to participate in band at the
school, which I’ve always wanted to do,” Lane shared.
Bella, another Junior Youth of the Year participant, is in fifth grade and is
a member of the Anacortes Club where Andrew Flores is the Club Director
and Kyla Whiton, who was named the 2019 Youth of the Year, teaches art.
“My favorite part about the art room was painting the mural. This is because
I can show my art skills. There’s no right or wrong way to express yourself
through art. Since I started coming to the Boys & Girls Club at the end of
last year, I have learned a lot. One thing I have learned is to have integrity.
I have made mistakes, and choices I probably shouldn’t have. I was able
to talk to Andrew and Kyla and own up to my mistakes. Like everyone, I
am not perfect. Boys & Girls Club has taught me to be the best ‘me’ I can
be,” shared Bella.
Club staff will tell you that it has been a pleasure to get to know these young
Club members that show so much potential and growth. As transformative
as the Youth of the Year program can be for Club members, it also has an
impact on staff and programming. Listening to their stories gives us insight
into the best ways that we can help and support our youth.
To learn more about the Youth of the Year program or how one can give support, visit skagitclubs.org
or contact our Director of Operations, Manny Smith at msmith@skagitclubs.org.

15

PUTTING IT ALL
INTO PRACTICE
Leadership Staff for Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County had the opportunity to travel to
participate in specialized trainings and professional development in 2019.
CLUB DIRECTORS ACADEMY
A
select
group of Club Directors were able to
attend Club Directors Academy, a training
provided by Boys & Girls Clubs of America
(BGCA), for a full week of learning designed
to help staff improve their practices as Club Directors.
The week was divided into 3 focus areas. First, The
Leadership Challenge
focused on five leadership
practices—modeling the
way, inspiring a shared
vision, challenging the
process, enabling others
to act, and encouraging
the heart. Next, Club
Directors focused on the
elements of a high-quality
Club experience, not only
for members but for staff
as well, specifically building a safe & positive environment,
establishing supportive relationships, creating
fun, offering opportunities, setting expectations, and
providing recognition. Lastly, each Club Director created
and shared their vision for their Clubs, as well as
specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timebound
(SMART) Goals.
“Even though I have been working for Boys
& Girls Clubs for eleven years, this was a
life-changing learning experience for me! I
learned strategies on how to be a better leader
for my Club and how to strengthen my team,”
~Christina Trader, Site Director Burlington-LU
Data was analyzed from all of the Skagit Clubs
in order to create a focus point for setting goals.
“Going through that process was interesting
because it showed me areas where we can grow
and improve,” said Andrew Flores, Club Director -
Anacortes. Staff development and support became
a main area of focus. “If Staff has the right kind of
support and tools, this will lead to a better Club
experience for our members.
This showed me a
whole different perspective,
helped me narrow
my focus, and gave me
the tools to help staff
progress as a team.”
“Even though I have been
working for Boys & Girls
Clubs for eleven years,
this was a life-changing
learning experience for me! I learned strategies
on how to be a better leader for my Club and how
to strengthen my team,” said Christina Trader, Site
Director for Burlington-Lucille Umbarger, who joined
the Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County after more
than a decade in Snohomish County.
16

Club Directors felt that the training was also very helpful because they
were able to network with other Club professionals from around the country
and hear what they have experienced. “It was great to experience the
diversity of the organization and it helped to give me a broad perspective
on how important our work really is,” said Flores.
“Working alongside my co-workers and fellow
directors and seeing that we shared the same
vision and goals for the organization was
unifying and strengthened our relationships.
It was a great feeling to know that we shared
the same trajectory and vision,”
~Angela Freeberg, Area Director - Mount Vernon.
ADVANCED LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
The Advanced Leadership Program is an innovative learning experience
that provides transformational growth for Boys & Girls Club leaders
and leadership teams and results in a proven impact on youth and
communities. This rigorous week-long training lead by BGCA facilitators
was an opportunity to analyze our Clubs’ data and identify organizational
needs. Attendees learned how to implement strategies to drive
and measure outcomes that will increase the positive impact on our
Club members and staff in our Skagit community.
Early on in the training, each participant was asked to write their own
vision for the future which set the tone for the team to be able to work
together, and identify areas of growth for the Clubs and determine how
to work towards their vision.
“Working alongside my co-workers and fellow directors and seeing
that we shared the same vision and goals for the organization was
unifying and strengthened our relationships. It was a great feeling to
know that we shared the same trajectory and vision,” said Angela
Freeberg, Area Director - Mount Vernon.
Day two was an intense day of action, digging in and bringing all of
their data together. It turned out to be a ton of data! After looking at
metrics for outcomes, program quality, experiences, and participation,
the team was able to celebrate successes as well as identify some
clear areas for improvement. “My experience at the Advanced Leadership
Program was both rewarding and involved a lot of hard work.
There were times when the amount of data and scope of the work
was overwhelming, but in a good way that pushed us to challenge
ourselves,” said Freeberg.
continued on page... 18
Arliss Abbott
Therese Rudzis
Kristina Swanson
Eric & Lynette Johnson
Docking Bay 93
Kinder Haus
Michael & Jamie Whiton
Darrel & Bernice Homan
Nancy & Joe Halton
Temcov Foundation
Kimberly & Robert Valencia
Glen & Susan McInelly
David & Dianna Cornelius
Keith Chaplin
Darren & Renata Maybruck
Dan & Cori Hyatt
Willie Adams
Keegan Kirkpatrick
Gerald & Bonnie Bowers
Josh & Aiden Axthelm
Heather Powell
Sedro-Woolley Police Benevolent Fund
Scott & Laura Breckenridge
Jason Easton
Kurt & Julie Kolmos
Janet Whalen
Ray & Carolyn Bloom
Chloe Crosson
Blade Chevrolet
Vince Oliver
Jack & Nancy Darnton
Mark Kim
Soroptimist International of Burlington
Julia De La Cerda
La Conner Seafood & Prime Rib House
Amanda & Josh Cecotti
Cap Sante Inn, LLC
Outback Steakhouse
Carter Haven Properties, LLC
Jennifer Durney
CWS Burlington LLC
Martha Rose
Anonymous
Michael Stark
Iris Carias
Dan & Debbie Boffey
Stephanie Thomas
Carl & Carmen Bruner
Erica & Jordan Carr
Annette Booth
Sara Holahan
Norm Nelson, Inc.
Samish Tyee
Michael & Andrea Rogers
Towne Foundation
Savi Bank
Kathy & Tim Randell
Mark & Gayle Nilson
James & Michele Tangaro
Cathy Petersen
Kiwanis - Anacortes Noon Club
Hugh & Wendy Kendrick
The Encore Shoppe
Ann Rasar
Village Books & Paper Dreams
Robert & Jeannette Papadakis
Levon Matson
Brian Hanrahan & Treva King
continued on page... 18
17

Leanne Shannon
Sherry Hill & Abby Jacobs
Cathy Grant
Justin & April Ward
Mary & Steven Hudson
Debra Jones
Kroger
Gordon Bruchner
Glenda Herrera
Stefani Castro
Jason Williams
Sherri Gutzmer
Keith Klingensmith
Michael Fredlund
Michael & Lisa Janicki
Alma Pineda
Jaime Michaelson & Michael Broyles
William Overby & Tee Davis-Overby
Erik Pineda
Sara Maloney
Cody & Ed Ellison
Skagit Regional Health
Vanguard Charitable Endowment Program
Nathan Allen
Forte Chocolates
Josh & Sarah Arquitt
Melissa White
Williams & Nulle, PLLC, CPAs
Bill & Janice Bailey
Paula Shafransky
Rob & Lisa Pate
Van’s Equipment Company
Craft Stove
Tom & Elizabeth Gregerson
Port of Skagit
Susan Duffy
Jim Davison
Ruth Mills
Jayme Street
Peter Swanson
Boeing
United Way of Skagit County
Ashbaugh Beal
Trustee of the Jerry H. Walton Foundation
Tamara Blunt
Bruce and Senora Farnham
Robert & Jesse Parsons
Janice Hill
Rich & Kristin Hartman
Travis LoGrande
Dominic Pettruzzelli
Christopher & Cassandra King
Darcy Swetnam
Lorenzo Velasco
Christine Tripp
John & Colleen McIntyre
Maggie Potter
Christopher Webb
Andrew Ferreira
Scott & Shari Ludden
Matthew and Stephanie Barrow
Mark & Jody Carabba
Marty & Kristi Martin
Donna Sitts
Dan & Lori Maul
IMAC, Inc
Doug & Gay Woods
Adam & April Jones
AJ Steen
“It was a non-stop process of critical thinking. I think
this experience was beneficial for our team in a lot
of ways, including having a dedicated time to work
with each other on specific elements of our operations
and looking at the big picture. I appreciated the
opportunity to be a part of this development process
and to further my own career development.”
~Andrew Flores, Club Director - Anacortes
Then it was time to get to work, defining goals and responsibilities so
that when the team returned they would be ready with a clear plan
of action. “It was a non-stop process of critical thinking. I think this
experience was beneficial for our team in a lot of ways, including having
a dedicated time to work with each other on specific elements of our
operations and looking at the big picture. I appreciated the opportunity
to be a part of this development process and to further my own career
development,” said Andrew Flores, who also attended the Club Directors
Academy and just completed his first year as the Anacortes Club Director.
The training also dedicates a considerable amount of time for feedback
& reflecting on that feedback. Team members were provided with suggestions
from co-workers on “Behaviors to do more of,” “less of,” and
“to continue,” through an anonymous and comprehensive 360-degree
feedback process. Attendees learn about personality types and behaviors
they commonly exhibit so that co-workers have a better understanding of
each other’s preferred mode of communication, work habits, and how to
work more effectively together.
“It was an honor to be able to meet other participants from other Boys
& Girls Clubs who share the same passion of the movement. ALP truly
helped us bring a stronger relationship together as leading professionals,”
said Brian Gustafson, Area Director - Concrete.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County aims to continue to invest in sending
leadership staff to training and professional development opportunities
like these whenever possible, while balancing budgetary concerns, recognizing
the value they bring in lifting up the organization as a whole. “As
part of our “Opportunity 2021” Strategic Plan, a key area is Strengthening
the Organization. Our Board of Directors and many community stakeholders
that participated in the focus groups that shaped the strategic
plan recognized the value of investing in these endeavors. It positively
impacts the experience of our Club members, and has demonstrated
value in employee retention rates and career satisfaction,” said Ron
McHenry, CEO for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County.
18

Brett & Eva Fox
Mary Johnson
Patrick & Jean Ward
Mike & Julie Anderson
Troy & Angie Wright
Land Title and Escrow Company of Skagit
& Island County
Matt Lehman
Gary & Claudean Talbert
Keith & Rebecca Short
Nate Wolfe
Jeff & Linda Hendricks Family Foundation
Quinn Livesey
Becky & John Taft
Caitlin & Sven Svendsen
Kenneth Osborn
Jim & Kim Grams
Marjorie Davis
Mike & Dawn Durham
Torolf & Anna Torgersen
Suzanne Radenkovic & Roger Kelley
Dustin & Gabby Small
Tod & Bonnie Lehecka
Ross & Susie Roberts
Windermere Foundation
Jimbo Bob
Peter Goldfarb
Karl & Karen Yost
David and Jessica Levine
Kelli Judnich
Danny Laine
Skagit Island San Juan School Retirees
Association
Skagit Transportation
Sheryl Carman
Bruce & Margaret Evertz
Holly Shannon & Josh Johnson
Best Buy Foundation
Cody Moore
Christ Episcopal Church
Ron & Jan Wesen
Portalis, LLC
Angler’s Coffee
Lisa Strandberg
Jeff & Val Holtgeerts
Pam & Bill Doddridge
Skagit Publishing
Betty Romtvedt
Robert & Rebecca Gates
Justin Walker
Dale & Elaine Gorsegner
Earnest Mayo
Sattva Photo
Sundarah Hammontree
Karl & Debra Pankaskie
Joanie & Steven Moe
Nick & Nicole De La Garza
Howard Huffstodt
CPI Plumbing & Heating
Karen Eckardt
Sandra Garofalo
Carol Lawson Insurance Agency, Inc.
Cloud 9 Photography & Design
Jim & Jana Hanson
Ron McHenry
John & Marie Erbstoeszer
Dick & Susan Straathof
Sarah Crist
Molly Gerhard
Sakura Restaurant
JoAnn Fain
Dave Oliveri
Morgan Hendricks
Don Bates
Dena Kindred
Joel & Jennifer Dean
Dennis & Mary Staberg
Tammy Belisle
Alison and Tim Motts
Larry Paise
Mel & Alice Takehara
Patty Vallejos
Carrie Odlin
Andrea & Eric VanPelt
Ronald & Jamie Mitchell
Julia & Eric Johnson
Julie & Steve Sager
Rick & Leslie Adelstein
Brian & Caroline Davis
Nestle Coffee Partners
Darrell & Elizabeth Heisler
Brianna Brooke
Bill & Diana Anderson
Brenden Jones
Soroptimist International of Anacortes
Lopez Island Creamery
Lydia Bridge
Tom & Debbie Jones
Brian & Keri Ronk
Erik Pedersen Group, Inc, PS
Tammie Sargent
Ian & Whitney Crawford
Tyler & Lauren Breum
Robert & Sonja Hild
Erik & Jennifer Crawford
Quantum Construction Inc.
Brian Gustafson
Tom Taylor
James Landy
Kara Gonzalez
Keith & Jeanette Love
Debra & Douglas Lancaster
Jack Dyer
Lowman House LLC
Jim & Kay Zielinski
Boyd Wells
BYK Construction, Inc
Smiley Insurance Services Corporation
Michelle Hurteau
Mary Cashetta
Brian & Kathy Wolfe
Sally Ryan
Sam Walker
Dennis Vincent
Carrie Wallace
Frank Wagner
Richard Olds
Tim Mikesell
Barbara Holmkvist
Elizabeth Oshiro
Melissa & Hugh Dougher
Holly Parkes
Roger & Mary Ann Mercer
Mike & Victorian Gubrud
Cameron Ostrom-Kelley
Uprising Seeds
Soroptimist International of Sedro-Woolley
Stefano Perruccio
Dana Andrich & Brian Tiland
Burlington-Edison Kiwanis
Robert Coffey, MD
Lee & Leslie Wilson
Nels Strandberg & Colleen Craig
Lin & Carla Tucker
William & Wendy Rabel
Jeff and Mackenzie Reider
Marshall and Susan Basham
John Piazza Jr. Construction & Remodeling
Samantha Stormont
Allen & Debby Malarchick
Bob & Marian Sadler
Dan & Laura Fisher
Bryan & Anne Jones
Paul Benz
The Drain Doctor
Jonna Zieber
Amy Oliver
Jim Eberhardt & Kaylene Farley
Debbie & Jim Macy
K&H Integrated Print Solutions
Bill & Gina Gillespie
John Roozen
Eleven Vexler & Richard Brocksmith
Jack Sather
Norm & Michelle LeBret
James & Kim Briscoe
Sam Summerhill
Reisner Distributor, Inc.
Cindy & Todd Anderson
Jeff Swensen
Aaron & Kathryn Starkovich
Erin Long & Michael White
Manny Nevarez
Kimberly Fair
Alice Bohnker Insurance
Anacortes Sunrisers Kiwanis
Mount Baker MG Car Club
Sol & Erin Kohlhaas
Kara Stamback
Bob & Nancy Tracy
Patrice Blakeway
Lori Clark
Sue Harrington
Marine View Cold Storage
Kati Shannon
Taylor Blodgett
James & Cathryn Griffith
Tony & Robin Pestarino
Joshua Anderson Insurance, Inc
Rick & Char Johnson
Whatcom Community Foundation
Les & Fay Huggins
Tim Smith
Jacob Hovik
Kurt & Suzan DelBene
Les Schwab Tire Centers
Tom & Rachael Day
Soroptimist International of Fidalgo Island
Mark & Sandy Hagen
continued on page... 23
19

Youth at the Burlington-Allen Club
are participating in Power Hour
where they get time to work on
missing or late assignments and
get specific tutoring on subjects
they need help with. Grades K-2
were working on math, and 3rd-5th
on reading, spelling, and writing.
Middle schoolers have homework
assignments each night that they
can complete during Club hours.

NEW LEADERSHIP IN
BURLINGTON
A new 21st Century Site opened at Allen in Burlington last November serving youth in grades K-8. Hired to
lead operations at there, Ian Grenden reflects on his introduction to Boys & Girls Clubs.
I
joined the Boys & Girls Clubs’ Staff at the very
end of October, a slight left turn following eight
years of working for different YMCA branches
with a bit of classroom teaching peppered in. On
my third day of work I attended the Great Futures
Gala, before I had even
spent a day with kids at
my Club site, or bought
a bed for my new apartment.
I was placed in
the midst of the final
rush to execute on days
and weeks and months
of preparation that had
started long before I
even thought to apply to
the Boys & Girls Clubs of
Skagit County.
I was introduced to coworker after coworker, directors,
coordinators, specialists, and attempted to
remember every name, job title, and Club location.
“You’ll be working with them regularly,” “You’ll
mostly only see him at meetings,” “She does your
job, but out in Concrete”—it was a lot of information
to take in!
by Ian Grenden, Allen Site Coordinator, Burlington
“Regardless of job title, background, site
location, or length of tenure we are always
working towards the same goals—to provide
safety and quality programming for youth
who need us most, to connect with our
community, and collaborate to be the best
team we can be.”
My first real exposure to my new coworkers and my
new world was a madly choreographed scramble,
all hands on deck bouncing off each other as they
strived to achieve the same goals: raising money
and awareness to increase the quality of care and
resources for our youth,
and demonstrating to the
wider community why
we are worth supporting.
My first thought was
how rare this must be;
Club Directors, volunteers,
Youth Development
Professionals,
Administrators, Site Coordinators,
and Spud Webb
were all in one place
working towards one
singular outcome. I scanned constantly, watching
it all happen. I looked for ways to be helpful;
I cleaned up spills, I transported auction items, I
greeted guests with a friendly smile. I wanted to
show that I was part of this team, even though I still
felt a little like a lost puppy.
22

In my few months with Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County, however, I
no longer feel lost like that first day, but part of a team. I run the newly
opened 21st Century Site at Allen Elementary, collaborating not only with
my own staff but with the classroom teachers, school administrators,
and my counterparts at other 21st Century and traditional Club sites.
Even though I am often on my own at Allen, I always have people to
reach out to. Regardless of job title, background, site location, or length
of tenure we are always working towards the same goals—to provide
safety and quality programming for youth who need us most, to connect
with our community, and collaborate to be the best team we can be.
Since I have begun Club operations at Allen, things are a bit different
than a traditional Club site in that we have a shorter period of Club time
together—yet we make the most of it. 21st Century sites operate within
the schools and the Allen Club serves youth in grades K-8 where activities
are split up appropriately by age and ability. Power Hour is dedicated
homework time where youth can catch up on missed assignments or
get in more practice on what their class is currently focused on. The rest
of the time is used for free choice programs where youth can choose to
take advantage of Triple Play and play games, create art, or challenge
themselves with a STEM project. Recently, we put together a STEM activity
called “Blobs in Bottle”, where kids made their own lava lamps!
In transferring from a life with the YMCA, I have not felt a big shift or
any organizational betrayal that some warned me about. As a young
summer camp counselor, I cared for and mentored youth. As a classroom
teacher, I taught youth. As an Outdoor Educator, I provided quality
programming and new experiences for youth. Everywhere I go I
have been introduced to new methods of empowering and encouraging
youth—each an asset to strengthen my skill set. I have met amazing
people who have dedicated their lives to doing what I have always
sought to do. I am thrilled to be a part of Clubs expanding to serve more
youth in Burlington. I have found a new home with Boys & Girls Clubs
Skagit County and I am grateful every day to be aligned with a team
and community that understands that we are here for the kids and we
are all in this together.
IS PROUD TO SUPPORT
Thomas Lebovsky & Jane Billinghurst
David Huynh
Michael & Jessica Good
Judd & Black Appliance
Kirk Hereford
Jerald Munson
Olive Garden
Emerson Nordmark & Kim Liebscher
Sound Events
Susan & James Fay
Darrell & Stephanie Hooper
Marcus Lum
Renee Sayatovic
Scott & Angie Rutherford
Brian & Elizabeth Soneda
Kelli & Daniel Segars
Carson Law Group, PS
Keith Magee
Pamela Mckeown
Brad & Kristen Tully
Drew Mason
Victoria H Morell
Sarah & Joel Ward
Jim Mead
Danielle Vincent
Shane & Amy Collins
Brad & Katy Worley
Lisa Long
Carolyn & Andrew Conner
Paul & Diane Cocke
Shirley Yap
Michael & Elizabeth Jackets
Colleen Smiley
Dan & Patsy Martin
Rick & Karen Pitt
Michael & Colleen McClure
Shell Puget Sound Refinery
Robert & Jane Hyde
Michael Roach
Philip Cohen & Debbie Amos
Kathy & Keith Thomson
Medina Foundation
Diane Eiesland
Mia DeLeon
Jeff McInnis
Cascade Pizza
Colin & Alisa Sands
Pacific Woodtech Corporation
Jamie & Adam Bird
Ben & Roxi Smith
Elizabeth Hanna
Jarrod Ball
Brian & Kristia Poppe
Willowbrook Manor
Costco
Jeff & Mary June Curtis
Georgia Coy
Sheila Countryman-Bean
Rodd & Aimee Frantz
Whidbey Coffee
Margy Pepper
David & Rhonda Heston
Terry Oliver
Isaac & Sarah Williams
Westminster Presbyterian Church
Rebecca & Steve Murray
Ken & Susan Johnson
Bret and Meggin Podnar
continued on page... 11
23

SAFETY:
PRIORITY NUMBER ONE!
Manny Smith, Director of Operations
Safety of our members and staff continue to be our top priority. In 2019, we worked hard to ensure that our
Clubs and staff were provided with additional tools and training to enhance our awareness, practices, and
preparedness across the organization. Here is a look at what we’ve been up to.
SEXUAL ABUSE PREVENTION
TRAINING
Being a safe place for kids is what we do. To do
this, we have to ensure that we fully prepare staff
with proper education and understanding of what
this means when working with kids. This past year,
a requirement for employment in any position with
the Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County is to complete
a 13 module Sexual Abuse Prevention training.
The curriculum, developed in partnership Boys
& Girls Clubs of America and Praesidium, covers
a wide range of topics including: How offenders
operate, How to recognize warning signs, How to
intervene, Mandatory Reporting Requirement, and
How to manage high-risk situations. This, in addition
to completing comprehensive annual background
checks, are just a couple of the measures
we take to protect our kids.
SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING
Emotional safety is just as important as physical
safety. For the last couple of years, Clubs have
been implementing Positive Action, a social-emotional
learning curriculum that teaches kids that
one way to improve self-esteem is through engaging
in positive actions. To further emphasize this,
we’ve added similar curriculum from Sanford Harmony.
We recognize that our kids live in an ever
changing world, and want to make sure they are
equipped as much as possible to achieve success.
CPR/FIRST AID
Thanks to our friends at Integrity Safety in Anacortes,
we were able to get nearly 100% of our
workforce trained and certified in CPR & First Aid.
This new partnership will enable us to keep our
staff members prepared through ongoing training
and certification renewals.
AUTOMATIC EXTERNAL
DEFIBRILLATOR
All of our Clubs were equipped with Automatic
External Defibrillators (AED). Thanks to the generosity
of Club supporters, we were able to install
this potential lifesaving equipment that is easily
accessible should the need arise.
24

PROGRAM & SAFETY COMMITTEE
Led by members of the Board of Directors, this committee conducts
regular reviews and on-site assessments of safety challenges and
needs. Together, the committee works diligently to ensure that we have
the information and resources needed to make improvements that will
better the Club experience for members in a safe way.
Every moment and interaction with a kid has the potential to shape
their future. We take this responsibility seriously, and want to make
sure that all kids who come to our Clubs have the opportunity to reach
their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens.
Safety is critical in ensuring that this happens.
Join The
Heritage Club
Your support through a planned gift will ensure
that future generations of our children will have
the opportunity to live successful lives in a safe,
positive and caring environment.
Joining The Heritage Club is easy! Simply communicate
your intentions by printing, signing and returning the
enrollment form available at
www.clubgift.org
or contact Ian Faley at
Consider including
your local Boys & Girls
Clubs in your estate
plans. This planning
might include a will,
charitable gift annuity,
a trust arrangement, a
real estate gift or a life
insurance policy.
ifaley@skagitclubs.org or 360-419-3723 x7.
Alaska USA Federal Credit Union
Baird & Associates Real Estate, Inc.
Allstate Foundation
Arty & Elinor Nakis
Right Way Plumbing, Heating, A/C Inc
Lyle & Kim Hildahl
Jason & Jill Hilde
Alex McKinlay
Katie Stamwitz
True Tone Audio
Mike & Pam Baron
Johnny Janicki
Cynthia Simonsen
Alexa Bush
Davis Busadre
Debbie & Darrell Cornelius
Bret Pugmire
Kiwanis Club of Mount Vernon
Rod & Karen Carter
Little Caesars Pizza
Phil & Tamera Brockman
Dan Berard
Wayne & Amy Barrett
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Coastal Farm & Ranch
Mark & Becky Tournie
Steven & Jan Massey
Douglas & Linda MacGregor
Krysta & Jacob Fast
Sarah Hanson
Kara & Justin Symonds
Trident Seafoods Corporation
Rodney Delseg
Concrete School District
Morris and Cheryl Nilson
Karin Wigen
Mary Linnell
Anne Kinney
Russell Edwards
David Flannery
Aztec Self Storage
Tracy Dugas
Jim & Carma DeGroot
Steven Sexton
Ruth Barefoot
Cascade Ear Nose and Throat
Duane & Nancy Clark
Arthur Solbakken
Banner Bank
Ray and Yvonne Vermillion
Jim and Marilee Boze
Carol Strandberg
Mike Dyberg & Connie Davis, MD
Mark & Roneih Nelson
Oasys
Fisher Construction Group
Troy & Sarah Hanson
Raymond Lacko
Albert & Penny Stubbs
Bryer Button
Tim & Cynthia Garrison
Matt Ray
Pat & Karl Essig
William Whittemore
Bob Neumann
Yvonne Bowman
Deb & Jason Brichta
Majestic Inn & Spa
continued on page... 28
25

A CASE FOR CLUBS
The unique positioning of our Clubs in Concrete offers measurable data that shows how Clubs transform lives.
Our Clubs have been doing great work in
communities for nearly 25 years, but in
opening services for the first time in Concrete,
a unique
opportunity was presented.
Instead of simply
working within the
constraints of resources
currently available, Club
leaders flipped the script
and looked at what was
truly just needed to
make a difference. This
could’ve easily gotten out of hand, but the staff
was responsible for developing the intervention so
as to not waste any taxpayer or donor resources.
However, it did allow for increased investments in
Even before the end of the first year, we knew
anecdotally that positive change was happening.
Club members and families reported better
grades, attendance at school increased, and
there were fewer behavioral challenges.
core elements believed to make a difference. These
could be easily replicable in other communities if
the intervention worked, once additional resources
were identified to do so.
As part of being a 21st
Century Community
Learning Center that
is federally-funded, an
external evaluator must
be engaged to look at
all components of the
program and execution,
and provide a report as
to effectiveness. There is a lot of information synthesized
during this process. At existing locations, some
data points are decently informative, but because
26

there’s no true control group, much of it seems like
an exercise to simply check off a reporting requirement.
In Concrete, because of the isolation and lack
of alternative services for students, a control group
is somewhat built-in. With greater confidence, we
could tie work with specific members to results like
never before.
Even before the end of the first year, we knew
anecdotally that positive change was happening.
Club members and families reported better grades,
attendance at school increased, and there were
fewer behavioral challenges. The School Superintendent,
Wayne Barrett, who was also in his first
year in Concrete, spoke with conviction at the
Boys & Girls Clubs’ Annual Breakfast in March. His
words of confidence, and narrative of what he’d
seen personally to date, confirmed that Clubs were
headed in the right direction.
In August, Club leadership received the first evaluation
report on the outcomes realized through the
initiative. Data sets that were examined included
parent surveys and interviews, teacher surveys
and interviews, state standardized test scores,
attendance patterns, discipline referrals, and more.
In all areas, improvements were made. With a
strong secondary focus of building participants
Social-Emotional Learning Skills, it was exciting to
see participant growth in “Child Learning to Interact
with Peers” and “Child Learning to Interact Posi-
tively with Adults.” This was further underlined by
reflective scores from parents on “Positive Impact
on My Child’s School Day Behavior.” Fewer disciplinary
referrals mean less time out of class for
students who already risk falling behind their peers.
With the opening of the Allen School program
in Burlington this year, the same methods
are being implemented, and additional
strategies are being tested to increase student
performance even more.
Scores on the Smarter Balance Assessment (SBA),
which Washington State uses to benchmark student
progress in Math and English/Language Arts (ELA)
showed significant gains across the Board. In Math
at the Elementary level, Washington State scores
increased by one point for all students, while Club
participants increased by 6, despite Concrete non-
Club participants decreasing by one point. In Elementary
ELA, Washington State scores again increased
by one point for all students. Non-Club participants
saw their scores increase as well, by 7 points. However,
once again, youth attending the Club posted
the highest gains, jumping 20 points in a single year.
At the secondary level, ELA scores for Club and
non-Club participants raised significantly, though
continued on page... 28
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Bianca Urbina
Roger and Julie Heim
Jeanne Wright
K Lee Johnson
Worthington Foundation
Farmstrong Brewing Company
Kimberlee Anderson
Diane Bergsma
Alex and Ingrid Thieman
Roger Peterson
Jennifer Wilson
Steve Perry
Ben & Frei Burton
Ray & Carol Larsen
Kellie & Steve Cargile
Keith & Rosemary Kaholokula
Emily Griffin
Jeremy & Jamie McCullough
Martha & Harold Clure
WA State Boys & Girls Clubs Assoc.
Peter & Tricia Cisneros
Mollie Janicki
Amanda Hubik
Bart & Holly Bunnell
Porterhouse Pub
James & Alice Bohnker
Amanda Sloan
Sam Chebeir
John & Rebecca Spurling
MOD Pizza
Megan Walker
Kathie Roll
Zak Van Winkle
Lisa Beitler
Jeff and Linda Frizzell
Michael Schweigert
Jennifer Benson
Ardis & Roberta Parker
Natalie Johnson
Randy Schillinger
Ed & Cheri Kaptein
Mike & Shelly Moser
Marathon Foundation, Inc.
Mt Baker Ski Area
Jack & Stephanie Hamilton
Jody Baker & Fritz Rud
Donald L. Fenton
Susanna Alway
Bryon and Shawna Mengle
Boys & Girls Clubs of America
Barbara Legas
Andrea Shick
John & Katy Janicki
Richard & Diane Merry
Brad Methner Insurance Agency
Apothecary Spa
Paul Carter
Jayne Branch & Lee Strick
Roger Family
SB Venture Group
K.C. & Angela Freeberg
Animal House Pet Grooming
Jason Solie
Scott & Brittany Holley
Tanya & Anthony Sanger
Stephen & Sharron Sauder
DreamChasers RV
Holly Swanson & Tammy Findlay
continued on page... 37
Club participants edged out just a slightly better gap. All students
closed to within two points of the Washington State average, which
is great for the community as a whole. Math at the secondary level
really jumped for Club participants—a 400% increase! While non-Club
participants saw just the slightest decrease, Club participants outperformed
their peers by six points.
At all Club locations, there is an emphasis in Academic Success, and
our members consistently do better than their peer groups. However,
the additional resources obtained through the 21st Century Community
Learning Center grant provided an obvious, and immediate, direct
return on investment greater than seen before. It is hoped that with this
information, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County can secure additional
resources for all Clubs, both privately and through public funds,
to replicate the intervention methods used in Concrete. This includes a
lower staff-to-child ratio, increased planning time for staff, additional
investments in advanced program development training, key specialist
positions, and most of all, better direct wrap-around supports for participating
students through coordinated collaboration.
With the opening of the Allen School program in Burlington this year,
the same methods are being implemented, and additional strategies
are being tested to increase student performance even more. Two
new Social-Emotional Learning programs are being piloted for different
age groups, and enhanced STEM and Workforce Development
activities are on the horizon. This allows Clubs the ability to be the
most responsive to student needs, and finely tune the balance of
program methods used.
To learn more about the program development and execution of 21st Century Community
Learning Centers and how increased investments in Traditional Clubs can directly impact the
positive trajectory of Club members and their Academic Success, please contact CEO Ron McHenry
at 360-419-5244 or rmchenry@skagitclubs.org.

29

2019 YEAR-END FINANCIALS
The 2019 year-end totals are generated internally,
and come before a complete audit is conducted.
Clubs, in accordance with IRS regulations and
generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP),
operate in an accrual accounting system. The
I-990 is filed each year with the IRS, typically
in late summer. These and all recent audited
financial statements are available for review at the
Administration Office in Mount Vernon or can be
requested electronically from Sarah Arquitt, Director
of Administration, at sarquitt@skagitclubs.org.
As in all years, Personnel wages and benefits
comprise the vast majority of expenses for the
Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County. It is our
professionally trained staff who work on the front
lines with our Club members where the greatest
difference is made. Training & Professional Development,
embedded in Personnel & Benefits costs,
saw increases as provided for in “Opportunity
2021”, our community-based Strategic Plan. The
greatest impacts were for Club Directors and their
teams that engage our Club members directly,
more than doubling previous investments.
Proud supporter of
In Income, a strong year for unrestricted personal
contributions, continued success at the Great
Futures Gala, and a record-breaking Keys for Kids
event in June provided for the resources necessary
to end the year with a small surplus that will
be reinvested into our mission: to enable all young
people, especially those who need us most, to
reach their full potential as productive, caring,
responsible citizens.
*Figures are rounded to the nearest dollar
30

Membership Dues
Miscellaneous Income
Earned Income
In-Kind Contributions
BY THE NUMBERS:
2019 Year-end financials *
Donations & Contributions
Events & Fundraisers
Grants & Other Investment
Total Income: $2,393,773
$415,563
$517,517
$934,159
$4,475
$231,287
$60,713
$230,059
Program Administration Supplies & Equipment
Transportation/Travel
Marketing
Outreach
Insurance
Occupancy
Finance & Administration Fees
Depreciation
Personnel & Benefits
Program Delivery
Fundraising Expense
In-Kind Expense
Total Expense: $2,355,323
$1,537,179
$18,498
$67,644
$143,892
$14,136
$29,410
$63,297
$5,503
$10,412
$132,306
$230,059
$102,987
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GREAT FUTURES GALA:
A SLAM DUNK!
The 2019 Great Futures Gala provided Club
staff with some great insights through participant
feedback. As expected, the favorite
part for most guests is the interaction with
Club kids and teens through the games. What
attendees may not know is that the counter to that
is true as well. Club members really enjoy working
with the public.
As Lane, one of our Concrete members who also
spoke during the auction said, “I really enjoyed the
opportunity to meet the millionaires and billionaires
who fund the Boys & Girls Club. It was a little overwhelming
because more people were in that building
than live in my town, but they were nice and
it was fun to help them with the games.” This was
his answer to a question posed by Congresswoman
Suzan Delbene who recently visited the Concrete
Club, about the different opportunities the Club provides
to members. It also opened up a dialogue as to
the make-up of Club Donors. The organization isn’t
aware of any billionaires. There may be a couple or a
few millionaires, but most Club donors are not. They
simply believe in the mission of the Club, and make
that special investment to support kids just like Lane
having opportunities that can be life-changing.
Other feedback that has been helpful in better
shaping the success of the event is understanding
that attending guests enjoy the Live Auction energy
because of the limited number of items, a smaller
Silent Auction, and more of a focus on true philanthropy.
The pre-registration for Express Checkout
increased in popularity in its second year, as those
attending simply walked in, picked up their packet,
and continued into the fun and fellowship the Great
Futures Gala Social Hour provides.
The biggest slam dunk of the night, all puns intended,
was the engagement by Club alum Anthony “Spud”
Webb. Staff had a feeling the experience might be
a little different that night based on his visit to the
Sedro-Woolley Boys & Girls Club earlier that day.
The Club teens assembled were excited to meet the
32

legendary NBA Slam Dunk Champion, but not prepared,
perhaps, for his story. What really clicked
for them all was when he started talking about
the Turnkey Boys Club in Dallas, TX where he had
attended so many years prior.
That night, as Spud Webb shared his
story and answered questions from the
audience of nearly 500, it resonated again.
They appreciated how down to earth
Spud Webb was, and that he credited so
much of his success to his time at the Club.
During his engagement with the Club kids, he
reflected that the Club he attended was just like
the one in Sedro-Woolley. A simple building, small,
with no gym. Still, he had learned to play Basketball
there, in a covered area just like the one in
Woolley. Here was someone rich and famous, who
had started in nearly identical roots to those sitting
before him, asking him questions. Imaginary
obstacles to success melted away as they further
realized their #GreatFuture was in their own hands.
That night, as Spud Webb shared his story and
answered questions from the audience of nearly
500, it resonated again. They appreciated how
down to earth Spud Webb was, and that he credited
so much of his success to his time at the Club.
His comments made a real impact and confirmed
that Club staff and volunteers were the keys to
that success, providing guidance and mentorship
that stuck with him for his life. The Boys & Girls
Clubs of Skagit County works hard to replicate
that work and success each and every day, and
thanks to such a supporting community, more
than 5,000 kids and teens access activities and
programs annually.
Opposite left: Spud Webb gives the keynote address.
This page top-bottom: Lane, a Concrete Club member shares how the
Clubs have helped him improve in math. Youth greet guests as they come
in for dinner. A couple of Mount Vernon members help a guest play the
games. 2019 Youth of the Year, Kyla Whiton addresses the crowd.
33

What is happening in this photo? No, we aren’t pulling Rob’s arms off, although Board members can attest to the
feeling of being pulled in 10 different directions. At a recent Board retreat, Board members and Staff participated
in creating and acting out quick skits all in the spirit of learning to work together, and of course, fun!
BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:
ROB MARTIN
Board members at the Boys & Girls Clubs of
Skagit County get things done. In fact, Paul
Zdunek, Vice President of the PACWEST
Region of Boys & Girls Clubs of America
recently helped to facilitate
the Board retreat
and afterward commented,
“Most of the
time I go to these things,
the most I can hope for
is a plan of some sort
that may or may not be
executed on. The speed
at which these Board
members have complex
dialogue and set out actionable items is encouraging.”
Local Club staff feel the same way.
Rob Martin joined the Boys & Girls Club Board in
January 2017. Through strategic planning, and his
During meetings, Rob balances an
ability to find humor in nearly every
situation, with asking tough questions
as needed and sharing his passion for
building a sustainable Club organization.
early involvement, it was quickly realized that Mr.
Martin would make a good candidate for the organization’s
first Board Leadership Succession plan. His
acceptance, to serve as the Board Chair for 2022-
23, allowed both Staff
and Board Leadership
an opportunity to make
considerations beyond
the present, and prepare
Rob, Tina Asp, and Holly
Shannon for their respective
terms, better than
any preparations prior.
During meetings, Rob
balances an ability to find humor in nearly every
situation, with asking tough questions as needed
and sharing his passion for building a sustainable
Club organization. He champions Club Tours,
reminding all as to their importance in providing our
34

investors with a direct way to see their return and
learn something new about the Clubs they support.
He brings his decades of expertise as a non-profit
business leader in providing mentorship to staff in
the organization, including Ron McHenry, CEO.
This fall, Rob learned there was a need in the kitchen
at the Sedro-Woolley Club for assistance in preparing
snacks and meals until a replacement could be
hired. It should’ve come to no surprise that the very
next day, Rob reached out to let staff know that
he’d acquired his food handler’s card on his own,
and would like to spend a few days a week helping
out. He cut vegetables, portioned out fruit, did the
dishes, and made some mean tacos. A Michelin
star as a chef may not be in his near future, but he’s
certainly earned the respect and admiration of staff
and his peers.
35

YOUTH OF THE YEAR
Congratulations to Paula Banda from the Sedro-Woolley Club who was named the
2020 Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County Youth of the Year!
If one were to make a case of why to support
the Boys & Girls Clubs, the Youth of the Year
Dinner is it. The dinner, held annually, is the culmination
of the Youth of the Year program, where
one youth is selected as the Boys & Girls Clubs of
Skagit County Youth of the Year. Since the beginning
of the school year, Club members ages 14-18
have been preparing for this night. Yet, the preparation
doesn’t end here, nor is it the end. For many,
it is the beginning—the beginning of new horizons
discovered by our Club members.
For many of our Club members, the Youth of
the Year program is a journey of self-discovery.
Through essay writing, members explore their
past—sometimes a deeply personal and difficult
process. They ask themselves the questions: “who
am I?”, “what shaped my beliefs?”, and “what
For many of our Club members, the Youth of
the Year program is a journey of self-discovery.
Through essay writing, members explore
their past—sometimes a deeply personal
and difficult process. They ask themselves the
questions: “who am I?”, “what shaped my
beliefs?”, and “what is important to me?”
is important to me?” Through this, participants
develop their voice and then they learn to use it.
By practicing their speech in front of their peers,
they work on honing their public speaking skills—
memorization, cadence, eye contact, and the little
36

things, like dealing with an unruly microphone stand. Each participant
chooses a Club staff as a mentor to guide them. Additionally, they gain
valuable feedback at the Youth of the Year Retreat, where several Club
organizations in Washington State come together for this purpose. It’s
the judging process where, ultimately, one candidate is chosen. This
panel of judges is selected from the community and given standards
for scoring. Anyone who has volunteered as a judge will say it’s a
tough job to choose just one!
Their backgrounds and experiences were varied,
but the underlying themes were the same. At the
Club, they feel accepted. At the Club, they can be
themselves. They feel supported and safe at the
Club. Their friends at the Club are like family.
At the dinner, attendees heard from five Youth of the Year Program
participants, as well as Kyla Whiton, Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit
County’s 2019 Youth of the Year. Their backgrounds and experiences
were varied, but the underlying themes were the same. At the Club,
they feel accepted. At the Club, they can be themselves. They feel supported
and safe at the Club. Their friends at the Club are like family.
continued on page... 38
Page 36: (L to R) 2020 Youth of the Year participants, Olivia E., Paula B., Lauren A., Logan T., and
Johanna G. (not pictured: Zoie S.).
Page 37: At the Youth of the Year Retreat in snowy Ellensberg, WA. (back row L to R) Manny Smith
(Director of Operations), Zoie S., Logan T., Patrick Dougher (Teen Director- Sedro-Woolley). (Front
row L to R) Kyla Whiton (2019 Youth of the Year), Johanna G., Lauren A., Paula B., and Olivia E..
Page 38: Paula Banda delivers her speech at the Youth of the Year Dinner.
Paula Banda, center, reacts to receiving the Cardinal Award for Club Excellence, a 2-year
scholarship to Skagit Valley Community College, presented by Anne Clark, Executive Director of
the Skagit Valley College Foundation, and the SVC Cardinal.
Rayna Bolanos
Danielle & Michael Russell
John & Julie Small
Troy & Joyce Kunz
Deb Castle
Anthony Young
Christine Johnson & Neal Ishihara
Anne & David Clark
Rich Oickle
Frances McCarthy
Perdue Farms Inc
Lynne Jordan
Karl Wolfswinkel
Anacortes Elk Lodge #1204
TRICO Companies, LLC
Donald & Margaret Campbell
Sarah & Adam Nuanes
Neal Swanson
Andrea Harmening
Jim & Joyce Anderson
E & E Lumber
Cargill Incorporated
Colleen Sargent
Ian & Theresa Faley
Rosalie Matsumoto
Christian & Trina Carlson
Kristin Knopf & Brian Hanners
David & Barbara Bostrom
Donnie & Kristen Keltz
Christina Jepperson
Melissa & John McCanna
Hal’s Drive-In
John Adamson
Mark & Deborah Green
Jesse James
Manuel Smith
Dan & Sandi Sims
The James & Geraldine Godfrey Foundation
Catherine & Richard Price
Cynthia Brune
Sierra Pacific Foundation
Louis Auto Glass, Inc.
Highwaters Media
T-Mobile USA, Inc
Desni & Josh Fonoimoana
George Reeves & Rosann Wuebbels
Julie Buchanan
Donald & Ora Jonasson
Tony Keller
Car Care Clinic Gateway Transmissions, Inc.
Tina Sowe
Steven & Rhonda Huggins
Swinomish Golf Links
Jack & Shirley McIntyre Family Foundation
Brandon & Laura Carter
Roger Bassett
Mud Pond Koi
Kris & Jonathan Callis
Debbie Shaffer
H. Coleman McGinnis
PACCAR Technical Center
Joe Jones & Tess Bisby
Riverside Health Club
Chad Paulsen
Eric Johnson
Tyler Koble
B&R Distributors, Inc.
Justin Albright
continued on page... 38
37

John and Shannon Cousineau
Barb Weymouth
Eagles - FOE #2069
American Family Insurance
Hair & Body Mechanix
Chad Fisher Construction, LLC
Ken & Florence Dahlstedt
Dwayne Lane’s Skagit
Wendie Granberg
Jacqueline Zoolkoski
Denny & Denise Lowery
Aaron Murphy and Amanda Wolf
Safway Services LLC
Karie & Blake Arney
Steve & Patty McQueary
Sara Wilson
Kenneth & Robyn Saunders
Oyster Bar
Patsey & William Blunt
Steve & Felisa Hoglund
Kristi & John Chambers
Mark & Pam Estvold
Jerald & Carol Zavalney
Steve & Krista Verbarendse
Bill & Susanna Epler
Don Wick
Laura Millhouse-Perez
Mary Grybeck
Theresa & Rich Sundance
William Ziegenhagen
Mary Jayne Wiles
Bryce Nickel
Rob Martin
The Plumbing Guys, Inc.
Carl’s Towing
Sandra Paciotti
Calico Cupboard Cafe & Bakery and Seeds
Bistro & Bar
Nick & Gina Walsh
Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction
Burlington Rotary Foundation
Columbia Bank
Gregg & Lea Davidson
Dave & Barbara Cox
MJB Properties, LLC
Bert Clay
Mike & Dianne Crawford
Skagit Valley Food Co-Op
Travis Binschus
Justin & Kylee Dowe
Mark & Mary Kiser
Joseph & Debra Newby
Authur Palmer
Johnny Carino’s Italian Restaurants
Brett and Misty Pehl
Jeff & Erin Burkholder
The Cambia Employee Giving Campaign
Rob & Rachael Woods
The Spiel Foundation
James & Beverly Mowrer
Enchanted Florist
Zuleica Sanchez
Seon & Stephanie Wright
A Washington State survey found that 67% of Club members say that
the Club saved their life. When one hears these members share their
personal stories, they gain a fuller understanding of how important
Clubs are for youth.
This year we are thrilled to congratulate Paula Banda from the Sedro-Woolley
Club, who was chosen as the 2020 Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit
County Youth of the Year. Paula, now 17, was also the Youth of the Year
in 2017. One incredible benefit offered to our selected Youth of the Year
candidates is the 2-year full scholarship for Skagit Valley Community College
valued at $9,000. Anne Clark, Executive Director of the Skagit Valley
College Foundation, who announced Paula as the winner at the dinner,
also revealed that the College is now an accredited 4-year school offering
Bachelors Degrees in Environmental Conservation, Applied Management,
and Health Management. Youth of the Year candidates also receive an
additional $1000 in scholarship funds that can be used at any institution
for post-secondary education. Paula will now look forward to the State
Youth of the Year Dinner this March where the State candidate will receive
$5000 in scholarship funds. No matter the outcome, Paula will have
many opportunities to continue her education after high school, and is
well on her way to a GREAT future.
38

PROUD TO SUPPORT
Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County
1100 Freeway Dr., Mount Vernon, WA
360-424-3231 • www.bladechevy.com
NEW &
PRE-OWNED
VEHICLE
LIFETIME
LIMITED
POWERTRAIN
WARRANTY
39

PO Box 947
Mount Vernon, WA 98273
THE PRINTING & MAILING OF THIS REPORT
WAS DONATED BY K&H PRINTING SOLUTIONS
Boys&
Girls&
Nutrition&
Life Skills&
Discovery
&
Whatever
It Takes to
Build Great
Futures.
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