Success Stories

Good Support, Hard Work and a Dream!

N.T. and his mother live in low income housing on the East Bluff of Peoria, a neighborhood with one of the higher crime rates in the city. They must depend on each other because they are in this area without extended family to offer support when needed. Perhaps because of this need, N.T. is rather more responsible than other young men his age. N.T. is a positive person who has respect for others showing that “being cool” doesn’t mean being disrespectful or intolerant. He demonstrates this respect daily to the staff at the Boys & Girls Club, but also in his neighborhood where he makes a special effort to show respect to his elderly neighbors in word and deed. When he isn’t doing school work or attending sports practice, N.T. makes himself available as a volunteer for various Boys & Girls Clubs activities. He regrets that because of school and sports commitments, he is unable to volunteer more often in the community. N.T. is a student that is serious about his academics and the impact on his future and has been accepted at a local four year college with a partial scholarship. In the five years that N.T. has been a member of our Club, he has distinguished himself as the “Go To” member when staff needs a hand with projects or working with the younger members. These youngsters get not only the individual assistance they need but also the best role model for positive and appropriate behavior possible. This young man has had to face adversity as we all do, but he is determined to learn from each mistake and roadblock and does not let them discourage or deter him from his goals. He accepts that he may have to work longer and harder for material things every youngster desires and he does work, never assuming that he is owed anything for nothing. As former president of the Keystone Club, N.T. exemplifies everything this program strives to instill in our members. He is productive, responsible and caring at home, in school, at the Club and throughout the community.

Update: N.T. began his freshman year at a local 4 year college where he is majoring in engineering. He hasn’t forgotten his friends at the Boys & Girls Club even though his schedule has gotten considerably busier. N.T. is now a part time staff member, whenever his classes will allow, and he is living proof that anyone from any circumstances can improve their life if they are willing to work hard and believe in themselves.

©2010 Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Peoria, Inc.