Ulbrich Boys and Girls Club
Evan LeClair
For over 2 years, Evan LeClair, Adult Advocate at Meriden-Wallingford Chrysalis has been teaching youth at the Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club fun and engaging lessons about healthy relationships, diversity, self-confidence, and more. Evan implements his lessons by allowing youth to have ownership on what they are interested in learning more about. One day when Evan came in for his lesson, he noticed that several youth were distracted by a new trend of flipping water bottles onto the table. The next week, Evan incorporated flipping water bottles into his lesson plan and created a water bottle flipping contest, which then linked to a lesson on sportsmanship and team building. Another week, he asked youth what the characteristics of a healthy relationship looks like to them. Youth led the discussion and everyone’s thoughts were heard, respected, and valued. Evan made sure the conversation remained appropriate and also shared with youth what he believes healthy relationships look like also. Evan has also had discussion with youth about cyber-bullying, setting goals, inspirational leaders, and more. Through Evan’s consistent presence at the Club, he has built relationships and trust with several youth. Youth thoroughly enjoy time with Evan and learn in a fun, engaging way through his leadership.
Bianca Vargas
Club staff has witnessed Bianca grow as a: role-model, student, sister, and friend for over 2 years. Bianca has a brother and sister that she often assists her mother to provide for, by: helping them with homework, cooking dinner, walking them to and from places, watching them while her mother is working, and more. Through patience and determination, Bianca has learned how to lovingly assist younger members at the Club. She has embraced the fact that youth look up to her by helping younger members with reading books and assisting staff with leading activities. Bianca has the position, “Club Librarian”, where she helps younger members find books that match their grade level. Bianca attends special events at the Club and shares with guests the impact that the Club has made in her life. Given the leadership and passion she has for helping the Club and our community, staff gain assistance from Bianca with special events, providing Club tours for guests, and leading activities. Staff is particularly impressed with the overall growth made in her attitude. Years ago, Bianca used to use negative language and yell at her brother and sister; whereas now she chooses to select her words more wisely and approach life with a more positive outlook. Often times, Bianca will even ask staff, “Do you need any help with anything?” Bianca will notice and area that needs to be cleaned and clean without being asked.