“It was one of the most rewarding things to happen in my life. Not only am I excited to have my own home in paradise, but I’m able to give back to an organization that gave so selflessly to me,” – Britney Guertin
Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties (BGCSDC) has been a leading youth-serving organization since 1970. The mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need services the most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
In our community, thousands of youth are engaged with BGCSDC programs. These programs occur at the various Clubs around the County, at schools, virtually and in-person. They revolve around education, career development, the arts, building confidence, getting involved in the community and more.
Nearly 20 years ago, one youth spent a summer enrolled in BGC programs, and her life was changed forever. The Club was a place she could call home. There were leaders that set positive examples, and she was introduced to topics that led to her discovering her passions. Fast forward, that child has grown and is just one example of how these programs can impact young minds – and consequently, our community.
Now in a managerial role with the local tourism bureau, on a Board with a business association, a leader of a local non-profit – and most recently, on the founding BGCSDC’s Club Blue Board, Britney Guertin is hoping her brief, but life altering time with The Club will inspire others to get involved and share their time, talent or treasure.
Though being a Club member didn’t lead directly to being a homeowner, Britney’s story includes a beautiful “full circle.” After nearly five years of saving, working off debt and restoring her credit, she was finally ready – but WOW, what a market to enter for a first-time home buyer! Thanks to the life skills and positive attitude learned from BGC, Britney and her boyfriend trudged forward and never lost hope.
In Dec. 2020, they purchased their first home together, and for the first time ever, Britney was able to donate more than her time and talent to BGCSDC.
“It was one of the most rewarding things to happen in my life. Not only am I excited to have my own home in paradise, but I’m able to give back to an organization that gave so selflessly to me,” said Britney. “I was almost more motivated to buy simply because I knew it would result in a donation to the Club. I could not have accomplished this without the help of Catalist – and that donation wouldn’t have been possible either. I am eternally grateful for this opportunity!”
The direct impact from this donation of $1,058 will help provide one child with a Great Futures Academy School-Year Program membership that gives them access to our slate of award-winning programs that empower him/her to excel in school, become leaders, adopt healthy habits, explore career paths and plan for success after high school graduation. Additional perks include group-tutoring lessons with certified teachers that ensure they stay on track to meet state standards in reading, language arts and math as well as access to technology, caring youth development professionals and adults mentors, healthy snacks and meals, and more.
You too can get involved with BGCSDC, though you don’t have to buy a house to do it! All it takes is your time, talent (volunteerism) or treasure. For more information, visit bgcsdc.org or call 941-366-3911.
Catalist Realty is proud to be a local partner and supporter of unrestricted donations for any and all non-profits.
Give us a call today at 941.777.2968 or reach us at INFO@CATALISTREALTY.COM.
