Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence (BGCL)

The Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence (BGCL) helps young people develop the qualities needed to become responsible citizens and leaders. Young people come to BGCL because it offers a safe, fun, and supportive environment in an increasingly complex world. In a city in the midst of an economic crisis, where the high school drop-out rate floats near 60 percent, BGCL serves 500 kids each day, striving to help these at-risk youths set goals and achieve them, recognizing their full potential despite slanted odds. Under the leadership of Executive Director Markus Fischer, in 2009 every club member who graduated high school was accepted and enrolled in a college program—a remarkable achievement in any atmosphere.