Boys and Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Blog

Eastman Volunteers Help Dedicated the Rosella O. Taylor Memorial Garden

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 17:45:06 GMT

“I am honored and moved by the Club’s generosity. Gardening is something that I enjoy doing and I’m glad I can share my passion with Club kids. Every time we plant something new, or a new flower blooms or a new vegetable we planted is ready for harvest, I’ll think of my mother and the incredible impact she had on me.”

On Earth Day, April 22, 2026, nine volunteers from Eastman came together at the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport to give back to the community in a meaningful and lasting way. The volunteers spent the afternoon constructing new raised garden beds, preparing the Club's greenhouse with fresh soil for future planting seasons, and helping Club members get their hands in the dirt — planting flowers and a variety of vegetables alongside the kids.

The garden project is part of the Club's ongoing Garden Club program, which gives young members the opportunity to explore gardening, farming, and crop cultivation. The program is designed to deepen kids' connection to the outdoors, spark an interest in where their food comes from, and reinforce the importance of healthy eating and active living.

At the conclusion of the event, Club staff members Josh Coffey, Nastassia Taylor, and Jessica Poore joined the nine Eastman volunteers for a dedication ceremony, officially naming the updated greenhouse and garden beds the Rosella O. Taylor Memorial Garden — a tribute to Nastassia Taylor's mother, Rosella O. Taylor.

Rosella was a former Eastman employee whose hard work, determination, and warm spirit earned her the deep admiration of colleagues and friends throughout her career. The dedication of this garden ensures that her legacy lives on — and that her impact will continue to be felt by the many children who walk through the doors of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport for years to come.

“I am honored and moved by the Club’s generosity. Gardening is something that I enjoy doing and I’m glad I can share my passion with Club kids. Every time we plant something new, or a new flower blooms or a new vegetable we planted is ready for harvest, I’ll think of my mother and the incredible impact she had on me.” Said Nastassia Taylor, Director of Education and Operations.

The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport extends its deepest gratitude to Matthew Potter at Eastman for coordinating the volunteer partnership and the garden dedication, and to each of the nine volunteers who gave their time and energy to make this Earth Day truly special for the Club’s kids and staff.

Jessica Poore named Tennessee Boys & Girls Club CEO of the year

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:21:10 GMT

"She truly puts Club kids first in every decision she makes and leads her staff with vision, heart and purpose."

Jessica Poore, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport, was named the 2026 Tennessee Boys & Girls Clubs State CEO of the year at The Summit for Tennessee’s Youth program in Nashville, TN.

The award was presented during the Tennessee Area Council and Tennessee Hall of Fame dinner at Belmont University in Nashville. The Tennessee Area Council is made up of Boys & Girls Club sites from across the state, serving more than 35,000 children in 100 different club site.

Jessica has been with the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport since October 2023. Before accepting her position as the CEO of the Club, she was employed at the Boys & Girls Club of Greenville and Greene County.

Since her arrival, Jessica has transformed the Club into a safe and welcoming place for hundreds of children. Through her leadership, the Club has seen a 190% growth in attendance since 2023, averaging 180 kids daily between its two site locations. The Club recently reached a new milestone when it served over 200 kids in a single day in January of 2026. The Club had 675 active members in 2025 and served over 48,000 meals to Club kids.

The club also has many outreach programs and events each year including the Youth Leadership Summit, Read Across America, and offers sports clinics and access to sports leagues through the Club’s various partnerships with youth sports organizations in the area. Through these partnerships, the Club was able to provide opportunities for 350 kids in 2025 to participate in different sports leagues and programs who might not have otherwise had the opportunity.

“We’ve all seen the incredible impact of Jessica’s leadership,” Vanessa Bennett of The Kingsport Chamber said. “She truly puts Club kids first in every decision she makes and leads her staff with vision, heart and purpose. I am incredibly proud that she leads the Club. Our community is stronger because of her unwavering commitment to the youth and families we serve.”

Jessica is actively involved in the community and serves on various local boards, and tasks forces including the Kingsport Chamber board and the Meadowview Task Force. She is also active within Leadership Kingsport and has presented at different events on leadership and creating a positive team culture.

“I’m thrilled that Jessica received this recognition that is so richly deserved.” Tony Melson, Former Boys & Girls Club Board Volunteer, said. “As I’ve served the Boys & Girls Clubs movement for years at the local, state, and national levels, I can confidently say there’s no better Club CEO than our very own, here in Kingsport. Jessica’s a rock star, and the entire state of Tennessee knows it.”

The Club extends its sincere gratitude and appreciation for the work Jessica has done for the Club and the community these last couple of years and is thankful for Jessica’s commitment to the organization, her staff, the youth in our area, and the community.

2026 Youth of the Year

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 17:09:00 GMT

Rylan Kiser Awarded Kingsport’s Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year Award. Liam O’Hara won Jr. Youth of the Year.

Club staff, board members, community partners and leaders selected Rylan Kiser, 16-year-old 10 ^th grader at Dobyns-Bennett High School as Kingsport Boys & Girls Club local Youth of the Year winner for 2026.

Rylan will represent the Club at the Youth of the Year State Competition in Nashville in March where he will share his unique story about his experiences at the Club, his ambitions and goals for his future.

Rylan has been a club member for 6 years and is actively involved with club activities and the community. Before becoming a member of the club, Rylan was struggling. “I wasn’t the best kid,” he said. “I made mistakes and didn’t make the best decisions. All that changed when I joined the Club. I had a place where I could play sports and make friends. The Club gave me structure and purpose.”

Rylan credits Teen Director Tay Smith for a lot of his success. “She has helped me so much in my life. Ms. Tay helped me to come out of my shell and taught me the importance of being respectful and grateful for the things you have.”

The journey to becoming the Boys & Girls Clubs National Youth of the Year and Junior Youth of the Year is exciting and inspiring. Each year, thousands of Club teens participate in their local competitions from across the country. Winners from local competitions will compete at the state competition next. This year, the state Youth of the Year competition is in Nashville early March, where Rylan will share his story with state leaders and judges to determine If he becomes this years 2026 Tennessee State Youth of the Year.

Liam O’Hara, middle school student from Sullivan Heights Middle School, was selected as the club’s Junior Youth of the Year . Distinct from the National Youth of the Year program, Junior Youth of the Year seek to develop junior leaders ages 10-13 within the Club environment.

Liam has been a member of the Club for 4 years enjoys coming to the teen center every day after school. “The Club is a place that I can meet friends and learn new things,” Liam said. “Everyone is nice and friendly and I have so much fun playing games and doing all the activities.”

Youth of the Year nominees had to present to a panel of judges that consisted of community leaders from the area, including Vanessa Bennett from The Kingsport Chamber, Rob Arnold from BrightRidge Electric, Lori Arnold, a governmental accounting manager, and John Pendleton from MyCroft signs.

Each nominee shared their unique story and talked about their goals, ambitions and what it means to be a positive role model in their community.

The Club is proud of all of the nominees and their accomplishments. Club Leadership staff and part time staff express their excitement towards the winners and wish them the best of luck at the State competition. Each of these teens have shown tremendous growth and change over the years. The Club couldn’t be prouder of them for believing in themselves as much as we believe in them.

1000 Middle School Students attend 2025 Youth Leadership Summit

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 19:34:30 GMT

Preparing students for High School

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Community Helps Bring Christmas Joy to Club Kids

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 18:50:16 GMT

Bringing Holiday Cheer to Club Kids this Christmas!

The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport has joined forces with employees from Eastman and local community members to make this Christmas extra special for 55 club kids. The collaborative effort will result in the donation of toys, clothing, shoes, and school supplies, valued at around an estimated $8,500.

Nastassia Taylor, Director of Education and Operations for the Club, has been a long-time employee of the club and expressed gratitude for the long-standing partnership with the employees from Eastman and the community, stating, "We have been partnering with employees of Eastman and other community members to provide gifts for kids as far back as 2008."

The employees of Eastman, who wish to remain anonymous, emphasize that their involvement is a personal commitment rather than an organizational initiative. They give with the Christmas spirit in mind and want the spotlight to remain with the joy they all aim to bring to children during the holiday season.

The Club kids who are selected are truly the ones who need it the most. Our Club reaches out to community partners and organizations asking for an angel tree sponsorship for one of the kids. However, most of the individuals who participate select more than one Club kid from the Angel tree.

“What we usually see, is somebody select 2-4 kids from our Angel tree list,” Jonathan Albarado, Development Director for the club said. “It’s heartwarming to see such generosity towards our kids and we are grateful to have so much support from Eastman and the community.”

Lisa K., a member of the Kingsport community, wanted to give back to the Club and help provide Club kids with a great Christmas this year. She reached out to the Club and asked if she could sponsor kids from our Angel Tree. When she learned the Club still had kids available to help this Christmas, she generously sponsored four Club kids. Lisa had sons who attended the Club in the early 2000’s when they were kids and said they had a great experience. “I wanted to give back to the Club that helped shape my kids into the men they are today.” Lisa said. “I am thankful for the work the Club does in the community, and I am happy to support the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport.”

Gifts, individually wrapped with each club kid's name on the tag, are delivered throughout the first couple of weeks of December. Parents will be notified and can pick up the gifts before the Christmas holiday break, ensuring they are ready to be placed under the tree on Christmas morning.

Jessica Poore, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport, remarked, "Every kid's Christmas should be magical, and we are grateful for the support of community members who step up to help families during the holidays. The generosity that is on display this Christmas is truly inspiring and we appreciate every one of our individual donors who have helped us throughout the year and this Christmas."

The Kingsport Boys & Girls Clubs Partners with Academy to Provide Shopping Spree for Deserving Club Kids

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 17:28:04 GMT

The Kingsport Boys & Girls Clubs Partners with Academy to Provide Shopping Spree for Deserving Club Kids

The Kingsport Boys & Girls Club partnered with Academy Sports + Outdoors to provide 20 Club kids with a one-of-a-kind shopping spree experience on Thursday, September 19.

A select group of Boys & Girls Club kids were each provided $200 gift cards to spend on any items in the newly opened Academy off Stone Drive. Accompanied by parents, guardians or club staff, the kids were able to explore the store and pick out new clothes, shoes, athletic equipment, and more.

“When a team member from Academy reached out to me and discussed the opportunity they wanted to give our kids, I was in shock.” Jonathan Albarado, Director of Development said. “Opportunities like this do not come along very often for the families we serve, and it was heartwarming to have Academy reach out to us and tell us they wanted to do something for the kids.”

The Club kids were excited to shop at the new store and multiple parents and guardians expressed how thankful they were for the opportunity to do this. The Academy staff were very helpful to the kids and families and the Boys & Girls Club wants to express their thanks to everyone on the team who helped make it an unforgettable experience for everyone.

Ted Fields of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kingsport with Club Wins State Board Member of the Year.

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 17:34:51 GMT

Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Tennessee Area Council awarded Ted Fields of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kingsport with Club Board Member of the Year.

Board and Staff members representing Boys & Girls Clubs from across the state of Tennessee came together to attend a statewide Tennessee Area Council Leadership Summit. Long time Club advocate and board member of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Ted Fields, Executive Vice President Market Executive at Powell Valley National Bank, was recognized as the Tennessee state Boys & Girls Club Board Member of the Year.

There is no better example of a total commitment of time, talent and treasure to the Boys & Girls Club of the Greater Kingsport’s kids than Ted Fields. Ted has been an instrumental part of the board for the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport for over 6 years. He joined the board in 2018 and is still an active member of the board today. He has been an advocate of the Boys & Girls Club mission and is instrumental in raising awareness of the Club’s programs and services and is heavily involved in fundraising and donation efforts. Ted has served as the Board’s Treasurer, Vice-Chairman, and Chairman of the Board (twice).

“It has been a distinct honor to serve alongside my friend Ted for these last few years and to witness his ability to make a difference creating positive outcomes for the Club Kids. When we were recruiting him for the BGCK Board of Directors, we knew he’d be a good addition based on history of displaying “the Kingsport Spirit”. But we didn’t realize just how good he would be… It turns out that he’s been the best board member in the State of Tennessee.” said Tony Melson, fellow board member and Board Chair for the Tennessee Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs.

In addition to his role on the Board of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport, Ted has also chaired the Kingsport Rotary Club, served on the Ballad Health Foundation board, and is current Chair of the Kingsport Chamber Board of Directors.

Jessica Poore, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport added, “Ted is the ultimate example of a dream board member. He is someone who understands the mission of the Boys & Girls Club and allows that mission to drive his work for the Club. We are so fortunate to have someone like Ted serving on our Board of Directors. It didn’t take me long to figure out how great he is, and now the entire state knows.”

The Club extends its deepest gratitude and appreciation to Ted for all of his hard work, continued support and passion for building great futures for kids in the Kingsport community. We are incredibly proud to have such a dedicated member of the community serving on our board and look forward to continuing to work with Ted for many years to come.

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport opens new Panda Cares Center of Hope classroom

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 13:39:15 GMT

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport opens new Panda Cares Center of Hope classroom

Raffle tickets are available for purchase for the annual Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Porsche Raffle.

It is one of the Club’s most anticipated fundraising events of the year. The Porsche Raffle brings together individuals from across the nation in support of the Boys & Girls Club’s mission of helping all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential.

“We are so excited about this annual event. We are so fortunate to live in a place where people are so philanthropic. We absolutely could not keep our doors open to serve kids and families without the generosity of so many in our community. We are looking forward to another exciting fundraising year,” says Jessica Poore, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport.

Raffle tickets are $100 each and multiple tickets can be purchased. Only 1300 tickets will be sold. Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here , or in person by visiting the Club located at 1 Positive Place, Kingsport, TN. Tickets can be purchased online, now through Wednesday, July 31 at 11:59 pm. Tickets can also be purchased at the Boys & Girls Club Annual Gala on Thursday, August 1 at The Reserve in Kingsport prior to the drawing.

Individuals who purchase a raffle ticket do not have to be present at the drawing to win. The drawing for the new Porsche Macan will take place on Thursday, August 1 during the Boys & Girls Club Annual Gala. A Porsche raffle ticket is not an entry ticket for the Annual Gala.

“The Porsche raffle has been a fundraiser for the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport for many years and has always been well received by our community. I can’t think of a better way to support our kids and their future.” Ted Fields, Executive Vice President at Powell Valley National Bank and Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Board Member said. “Who knows, you may even go home in a new Porsche!”

Buyers must be 18 years of age or older to purchase a ticket. Payments are not tax-deductible contributions and are non-refundable unless the event is canceled. If 800 tickets are not sold, a full refund will be provided, and the raffle will not occur.

“Our goal is to sell all 1,300 tickets this year.” Said Jonathan Albarado, Director of Development. “The money we raise from this fundraiser will help our Club continue to provide the quality of after school and childcare services our parents and families depend on. We hope that the community comes together to support our Club by purchasing a ticket.”

2024 Annual Porsche Raffle

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 12:46:14 GMT

Tickets on sale for the 2024 Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Porsche Raffle

Raffle tickets are available for purchase for the annual Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Porsche Raffle.

The Boys & Girls Club Night of Champions

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 17:55:11 GMT

The Club is Seeking Sponsors to Partner With for the Event!

The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport is hosting its inaugural Night of Champions sports award program and is looking for businesses and organizations to partner and sponsor the event.

The Night of Champions is an ESPYS style awards program that brings the community together to celebrate the accomplishments of high school athletes from the Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia areas. The event will take place at the Meadowview Resort & Conference Center on Saturday, June 1 at 6:00 pm. Special guest speaker, San Francisco 49ers NFL quarterback and former Tennessee Volunteer, Joshua Dobbs, will also be there to share his story, congratulate the athletes, and take pictures and sign autographs for some of the guests at the event.

“We know how important high school sports are in this area, and surrounding communities, and our CEO wanted to create an event that celebrates athletes and team accomplishments and brings a recognizable sports figure to present and speak.” Jonathan Albarado, Director of Development for the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport said. “I think this an exciting new event that we hope will continue to grow each year.”

Athletes and teams are nominated by high school coaches and athletic directors in 10 categories that range from ‘Best Record-Breaking Performance’ to ‘Community Impact Award’. A selection committee comprised of sports media professionals and others who cover sports in the area will review all nominations and select 3 finalists for each category.

Sponsorship levels provide a variety of benefits for businesses including opportunities for a representative of the organization to speak and present awards, prominent logo placement at the ceremony, recognition of sponsorship on promotional materials and media releases, and a meet and greet with Joshua Dobbs at the events closing reception.

“We wanted to have as many local businesses be a part of this event as possible and we created sponsorships levels of varying dollar amounts to make it possible for small and large businesses to participate and make an impact.” Jonathan said. “The more businesses that we can get to support this event, the better the experience and memories will be for the coaches, teams, athletes, their families and guest who attend.”

Sponsorship information can be found on the Boys & Girls Club website at kbgc.org/nightofhcampions. Potential partners can also reach out to Jonathan Albarado-Director of Development at jonathana@kbgc.org or Jessica Poore- CEO at jessicap@kbgc.org to discuss what sponsorship level is best for their business goals.

More information about the Night of Champions will continue to be shared on the Boys & Girls Website and social media pages and tickets for the community and guests are expected to go on sale in May.

Youth of The Year Winners & Nominees

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 20:27:03 GMT

Dobyns Bennett Senior AJ Crews awarded prestigious honor of The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Youth of the Year

AJ Crews, 17-year-old Senior at Dobyns Bennett, was selected as the local Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Youth of the Year. AJ will represent Kingsport at the state Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year State Competition where he will share his unique story about his experiences at the Club and his ambitions and goals for his future.

Becoming the Boys & Girls Clubs National Youth of the Year and Junior Youth of the Year is an exciting and inspiring journey. Each year, thousands of Club teens participate in local, state and regional Youth of the Year events. Six teens, including five regional winners and a national military youth winner, advance to the National Youth of the Year Celebration, where one outstanding young person is named Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s national teen spokesperson.

AJ Crews attends DB Excel and has been a club member for 11 years. He has a passion for mentoring the younger club members of the club and was selected for work based learning at Eastman Chemical Company. Upon graduation, he plans on attending Northeast State University.

“I am very proud and excited to see AJ go on to compete at the state level,” Tay Smith, Teen Services Coordinator explained. “He shows leadership skills, compassion for other club members and gives back to the local community when he can. I feel confident that AJ will be a strong contender for the state competition!”

The Club had 4 outstanding kids nominated for youth of the year including Jakub Stewart -Junior at Dobyns Bennett, Van Davidson- Junior at Dobyns Bennett and Rylan Kiser- 8 ^th Grade student from Sevier Middle School.

Rylan Kiser was selected as the clubs Junior Youth of the Year. Distinct from the National Youth of the Year program, Junior Youth of the Year seeks to develop junior leaders ages 10-13 within the Club environment. The program fosters Club members’ emerging leadership abilities while preparing them for later participation in the Youth of the Year program.

Rylan has been a member of the Club for 4 years and says that the club is a safe and fun place to go after school. Rylan enjoys playing pickleball and basketball and enjoys being in leadership roles at the club, his school and in his community. After graduating from high school, Rylan would like to attend the University of Tennessee.

Tay is proud of all these kids and said, “Each of the nominees that were selected to compete were deserving of the nomination. Each one of these teens has shown tremendous growth and change over the years. I couldn’t be prouder of them for believing in themselves as much as I believe in them.”

Nominees had to present to a panel of judges that consisted of community leaders from the area. Each teen shared their story and talked about their goals, ambitions and what it means to be a positive role model in their community. Our club is incredibly proud of these kids and their accomplishments not only at the club but in school and in their community

Providing Healthy Snacks and Food for Families

jonathana@kbgc.org (Jonathan Albarado) — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 16:03:45 GMT

Helping to Reduce Food Insecurities for Club Kids & Families!

In our community, like so many other communities in our state, is home to families who struggle with hunger and food insecurity. According to the Feeding America's 'Map the Meal Gap 2021' 13.8% of Northeast Tennesseans (around 71,000 individuals with 13,000 of those under the age of 18) are considered food insecure.

Food banks are getting contacted more than before requesting food assistance. Many families have been feeling the pressure from rising food costs, childcare costs and higher housing costs and it is difficult for many families to afford food. "Our club is continuously looking for impactful ways we can make a difference in the lives of our club families and the community." Jessica Poore, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport explained. "Whether it's eliminating weekly fees to help alleviate the financial burden families face in affording childcare or providing healthy snacks for our club kids and ingredients for dinner for our club families, our core value is to inspire all people, especially those who need us most, to have access to resources they need to live healthy lives."

The club was selected by the Boys & Girls Club of America (BGCA) and the Maytag Feel Good Fridge Program to provide the club with resources to stock the Maytag Feel Good Fridge with healthy and fresh food to be accessible to Club Families and members in need of such food items. Food items include fruits and vegetables, lean meats and poultry, juices and milk, eggs, cheeses, yogurt, and other healthy options.

The Club plans to restock the fridge every couple of weeks or as the food supply gets low. The fridge is available to kids and families during normal after-school club hours. Availability of food is not always guaranteed, and food items are available on a first come first served basis. The Club does ask its club members to be considerate of other families of the club and please take what you need.

Any organization who would like to participate in this beneficial program is encouraged to reach out to Jessica Poore at jessicap@kbgc.org or Jonathan Albarado at jonathana@kbgc.org. "Our club is here to help the families who need us," Jonathan Albarado, Director of Development said. "However, we understand the importance of having the support of the individuals in our community and local businesses and organizations which is why we encourage everyone who wants to help us, to please do so. It really does make a difference."

About Maytag® Feel Good Fridge
The Maytag® Feel Good Fridge is a donated refrigerator located at select Boys & Girls Clubs across the country that will be stocked with healthy food for Club kids and their families to take when in-need. Boys & Girls Clubs in Los Angeles, New York, Detroit and Grand Rapids will be the first to receive Feel Good Fridges and Maytag has placed additional Feel Good Fridges in Clubs around the country, including the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport. To learn more about the program or how to get involved, please visit maytag.com/feelgoodfridge .

The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Partners with Community to Bring Holiday Cheer to Club Kids

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 13:38:26 GMT

The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Partners with Community to Bring Holiday Cheer to Club Kids

The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport has joined forces with employees from Eastman and local community members to make this Christmas extra special for over 55 club kids. The collaborative effort has resulted in the donation of toys, clothing, shoes, and school supplies, valued at around an estimated $8,000.

Nastassia Taylor, Education Coordinator for the Club, has been a long-time employee of the club and expressed gratitude for the long-standing partnership with the employees from Eastman and the community, stating, "We have been partnering with employees of Eastman and other community members to provide gifts for kids as far back as 2008."

The employees of Eastman, who wish to remain anonymous, emphasize that their involvement is a personal commitment rather than an organizational initiative. They hope the spotlight remains on the joy they aim to bring to children during the holiday season.

Gifts, individually wrapped with each club kid's name on the tag, were delivered throughout the first couple of weeks of December. Parents have been notified and can pick up the gifts this week, ensuring they are ready to be placed under the tree on Christmas morning.

During this holiday season, the club invites community members to contribute to the organization, ensuring that children and teenagers can continue to benefit from supportive mentors and educational resources, fostering their academic success. Donations enable the club to maintain a place where Club kids can enjoy socializing with friends, engage in STEM activities to fuel their interest in math and science, explore artistic endeavors to nurture creativity, and partake in wellness games that promote an active and healthy lifestyle. To donate, please visit www.kbgc.org/donate .

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Bridges After-School Care Gap in Scott County

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 17:02:46 GMT

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Bridges After-School Care Gap in Scott County

The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport is thrilled to announce its upcoming Youth Basketball Clinic, a dynamic community event aimed at fostering basketball skills and promoting positive mentorship among young athletes. The clinic will take place on Saturday, October 21, from 12:00 pm (noon) to 3:00 pm at the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport, and it is open to all youth aged 5-18 .

This exciting opportunity will feature Men's Basketball Coach Brooks Savage and select ETSU Men's Basketball players. They will be on hand to provide hands-on coaching, guidance, and support to the participants. The clinic's focus will be on honing basketball fundamentals, practicing essential skills, and helping kids improve their basketball game.

In a show of commitment to the community, Jessica Poore, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport, expressed her gratitude for ETSU's involvement in the event, saying, "We are grateful to the coaches and players from ETSU who are willing to take time out of their Saturday to come hang out with our kids, help them get better in basketball, and be a positive role model. It is truly remarkable what we can accomplish when we partner with organizations who share in our beliefs of empowering kids and want to make a difference in the communities we serve."

The clinic is offered free of charge to all participants, making it an accessible opportunity for young athletes to enhance their basketball skills and build strong connections with local college athletes and coaches.

For more information about the ETSU Youth Basketball Clinic, please contact the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport at 423.230.4160 .

East Tennessee State University looks forward to fostering a sense of community and supporting the development of young athletes at this upcoming Youth Basketball Clinic. We encourage all interested youth and their families to join us for this exciting event.

ETSU Partners with Boys & Girls Club to Host Youth Basketball Clinic

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 14:33:15 GMT

Student Athletes and Coaches Give Back to the Community!

For more information about the ETSU Youth Basketball Clinic, please contact the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport at 423.230.4160 .

Jessica Poore announced as new CEO

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 19:12:34 GMT

Jessica Poore, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport

The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport is pleased to announce the appointment of Jessica Poore, as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective Monday, October 2.

Jessica brings a wealth of experience, expertise and community connections to the organization. With a proven track record in fundraising and philanthropy, building relationships with community leaders and organizations, and mentoring students and professionals to achieve success, Jessica is well-prepared to lead our Boys & Girls Club into its next phase of growth and innovation.

"We are exceedingly excited and optimistic about our Boys & Girls Club’s future with Jessica as our Chief Executive.” Expressed Tony Melson, Board Co-Chair of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport. “Among the many qualified applicants, and through multiple interviews in the selection process, she demonstrated clearly that she is the right leader, at the right time, for us.”

Jessica holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree of Science from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and held leadership positions as the Resource Development Director and Director of Operations at The Boys & Girls Club of Greenville & Greene County.

In these roles, she wrote and facilitated local and state funded grants, cultivated and maintained donor relationships with community members and leaders, and managed annual fundraising events to secure funds for annual budgets and capital campaigns. She managed and developed part-time staff in afterschool and summer camp programs and evaluated programs in order to maintain quality and improve effectiveness within each program.

“With a strong and balanced combination of passion, community connection, and extensive knowledge of the inner workings of the Boys & Girls Club movement, she is well poised to make immediate positive impact for our community. On behalf of our board and Board Co-Chair Ted Fields, we look forward to introducing Jessica as our new CEO to The Model City in the coming weeks.”

Jessica expressed enthusiasm for the new role, saying, "I am looking forward to bringing excitement and energy back to the Kingsport Boys & Girls Club. We have such an amazing community with so many opportunities to engage youth and families, and I am looking to reenergize that for us. We have such a stellar staff here at the Club, and the Boys & Girls Club movement has so many impactful programs and messages. We want to make sure all families know what we provide and how to take advantage of our services. Serving in the community that I live in is a big driver for me. So many people here contribute to making this a great community, and I want to be a part of that!”

Staff within the organization are looking forward to working with Jessica and are excited for the opportunity to learn from her experiences, grow as an organization, and work alongside her to develop positive relationships with community leaders and with the kids and families in Kingsport.

Jessica currently serves as a Leadership Kingsport facilitator and volunteer and was a recipient of the Tri-Cities Journal 40 under 40 award in 2022. Jessica was a member of the Kingsport Downtown Rotary Club from 2015-2021 and a graduate of the 2019 Leadership Kingsport program.

Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 18:31:19 GMT

8 Ways to Celebrate Hispanic & Latino Heritage Month

When kids and teens learn about culture, they broaden their view of the world and deepen their understanding of others .
Hispanic and Latino heritage is rich with history, culture and exciting contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans past and present. Hispanic & Latino Heritage Month offers families, teachers and afterschool providers an opportunity to explore these vibrant cultures.

When is Hispanic Heritage Month?

Hispanic Heritage Month is unique in that it crosses over two months, celebrated from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. This time period was chosen because it includes Independence Day celebrations for Belize, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico and Nicaragua.

Why is it important to celebrate Hispanic & Latino Heritage Month?

Latino, Hispanic and Latinx Americans have wonderful traditions to honor during this month and year-round. They’re also a vital part of the American population.

The Hispanic population in the United States accounts for 19% or 1 in 5 Americans, according to the 2020 Census.

At Boys & Girls Clubs across America, about a quarter of our members identify as Latino or Hispanic. Clubs encourage kids to embrace their identities and cultures – building pride and self-esteem.

8 Ideas for Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with Kids

From tasty eats to virtual tours, here are some Hispanic Heritage Month activities to engage the young people in your life:

DISH UP SOME DELICIOUS FLAVORS!

TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR

LEARN ABOUT HISPANIC & LATINO CELBRATIONS AND TRADITIONS

EXPLORE LATINX HERITAGE THROUGH ART

MAKE IT A MOVIE NIGHT

HIT THE DANCE FLOOR

Exploring culture is a great way to learn about other people while deepening respect for diversity and inclusion.
With these Hispanic Heritage Month ideas, you can celebrate Sept. 15 - Oct. 15 with the young people in your life!

Career Exploration for Kids!

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 17:43:31 GMT

The importance of helping kids learn about different careers.

As we navigate the complex and rapidly changing career landscape in 2023, it has become increasingly important to prepare our children not just for the jobs of today, but for the careers of tomorrow. One of the most powerful tools we have in this endeavor is the early introduction of diverse career options to kids. Encouraging children to explore a wide range of fields during their elementary school years can pave the way for a future filled with innovation, adaptability, and personal fulfillment.

When our club kids are exposed to different fields, they learn that there are countless paths to success. Kids often form their career aspirations based on their exposure to their immediate surroundings. When we introduce them to different career options, we broaden their horizons beyond what they might see on a regular basis. This is impactful for our kids who may not have access to positive role model or adequate resources. When our club kids see professionals from various backgrounds and fields, they are more likely to dream big and believe in their own potential.

Having community partners, like Eastman Chemical, helps us introduce them to careers that they might not have thought of before. When our club kids interact and engage with our community leaders from different career fields, we have the potential to spark their imagination and peak their curiosity.

It's incredibly inspiring to see our club kids get excited about working in a Lego Man assembly line. They get to work together, solve problems, ask questions and achieve a goal through teamwork and cooperation. All of these skills are essential to a successful career as an adult.

Introducing children to diverse career options can bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. It makes education more relevant and engaging as children see how their studies can translate into exciting careers. This connection can be a powerful motivator, encouraging them to excel academically and pursue higher education in fields they are passionate about.

In a world that's constantly evolving, we owe it to our children to provide them with the tools they need to thrive. Introducing diverse career options to kids during their formative years is a crucial step in this journey. By investing in their future in this way, we empower the next generation to be innovative, adaptable, and fulfilled in their careers, ultimately shaping a brighter and more promising future for us all.

Filling the Child Care Gap for Families in Need

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 15:36:05 GMT

In an era where the cost and accessibility of child care have reached critical levels, organizations that prioritize the welfare and development of young people are more vital than ever

Among these organizations stands the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Kingsport, dedicated to creating safe environments and fostering personal growth for children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Let's explore how the Boys and Girls Club aligns with its national mission and the pressing need for affordable and quality child care.

1. Providing Support and Mentorship

At the heart of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Kingsport is a commitment to supporting and mentoring young people. This aligns seamlessly with the mission of the Boys and Girls Clubs of America (BGCA), which seeks to enable all young people, especially those who need it most, to reach their full potential.

2. Safe Environments for Learning and Growth

BGC creates a safe and nurturing environment, essential for children's development. In a world where parents worry about child care safety, BGC offers peace of mind by prioritizing the well-being of every child who walks through their doors.

3. Academic Success

BGCA's national mission emphasizes academic success, and the Boys and Girls of Greater Kingsport is no exception. They offer programs that help kids excel academically, ensuring they have the tools they need to perform well in school.

4. Character Development

Character development is a cornerstone of BGCA's mission. Through various programs and activities, the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Kingsport instills values like respect, responsibility, and empathy in young participants, helping them grow into caring and responsible citizens.

5. Healthy Lifestyles

Promoting healthy lifestyles is crucial for a child's well-being. BGC encourages physical activity, nutrition, and overall wellness, aligning perfectly with the emphasis on healthy living in the BGCA mission.

6. Bridging the Child Care Gap

As federal funds for child care dwindle, the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Kingsport serves as a beacon of hope for parents. They offer an alternative to traditional child care centers, creating affordable options for families.

7. Affordable and Accessible Child Care

The rising costs of child care are a major concern for parents nationwide. BGC of Greater Kingsport strives to keep child care accessible and affordable, helping parents navigate the challenging terrain of rising child care expenses.

8. Fostering Positive Relationships

The importance of positive adult role models cannot be overstated. BGC excels at fostering these relationships, with caring mentors who serve as positive influences on the young people they support.

9. Serving the Community

The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Kingsport operates within its community, ensuring that it's conveniently located for families in need of child care solutions. This accessibility is especially crucial in areas with limited child care options.

10. A Lifeline in Child Care Deserts

Many communities in America are considered "child care deserts," where options for quality child care are scarce. The Boys and Girls of Greater Kingsport addresses this issue by offering a lifeline for families in these underserved areas.

In the face of mounting challenges in the child care landscape, the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Kingsport stands as a testament to the enduring mission of the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. They provide vital support to families seeking affordable, quality child care options while nurturing the potential of young people and helping them become productive, caring, and responsible citizens. With a focus on mentorship, safety, and community, BGC continues to be a beacon of hope for children and families in need.

Boys and Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Blog

Eastman Volunteers Help Dedicated the Rosella O. Taylor Memorial Garden

Jessica Poore named Tennessee Boys & Girls Club CEO of the year

"She truly puts Club kids first in every decision she makes and leads her staff with vision, heart and purpose."

2026 Youth of the Year

Rylan Kiser Awarded Kingsport’s Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year Award. Liam O’Hara won Jr. Youth of the Year.

1000 Middle School Students attend 2025 Youth Leadership Summit

Preparing students for High School

Community Helps Bring Christmas Joy to Club Kids

Bringing Holiday Cheer to Club Kids this Christmas!

The Kingsport Boys & Girls Clubs Partners with Academy to Provide Shopping Spree for Deserving Club Kids

The Kingsport Boys & Girls Clubs Partners with Academy to Provide Shopping Spree for Deserving Club Kids

Ted Fields of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kingsport with Club Wins State Board Member of the Year.

Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Tennessee Area Council awarded Ted Fields of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Kingsport with Club Board Member of the Year.

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport opens new Panda Cares Center of Hope classroom

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport opens new Panda Cares Center of Hope classroom ﻿

2024 Annual Porsche Raffle

Tickets on sale for the 2024 Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Porsche Raffle

The Boys & Girls Club Night of Champions

The Club is Seeking Sponsors to Partner With for the Event!

Youth of The Year Winners & Nominees

Dobyns Bennett Senior AJ Crews awarded prestigious honor of The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Youth of the Year

Providing Healthy Snacks and Food for Families

Helping to Reduce Food Insecurities for Club Kids & Families!

The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Partners with Community to Bring Holiday Cheer to Club Kids

The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Partners with Community to Bring Holiday Cheer to Club Kids

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Bridges After-School Care Gap in Scott County

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport Bridges After-School Care Gap in Scott County

ETSU Partners with Boys & Girls Club to Host Youth Basketball Clinic

Student Athletes and Coaches Give Back to the Community!

Jessica Poore announced as new CEO

Jessica Poore, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport

Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month

8 Ways to Celebrate Hispanic & Latino Heritage Month

When is Hispanic Heritage Month?

Why is it important to celebrate Hispanic & Latino Heritage Month?

Latino, Hispanic and Latinx Americans have wonderful traditions to honor during this month and year-round. They’re also a vital part of the American population.

The Hispanic population in the United States accounts for 19% or 1 in 5 Americans, according to the 2020 Census.

At Boys & Girls Clubs across America, about a quarter of our members identify as Latino or Hispanic. Clubs encourage kids to embrace their identities and cultures – building pride and self-esteem.

8 Ideas for Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with Kids

DISH UP SOME DELICIOUS FLAVORS!

TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR

LEARN ABOUT HISPANIC & LATINO CELBRATIONS AND TRADITIONS

EXPLORE LATINX HERITAGE THROUGH ART

MAKE IT A MOVIE NIGHT

HIT THE DANCE FLOOR

Exploring culture is a great way to learn about other people while deepening respect for diversity and inclusion. With these Hispanic Heritage Month ideas, you can celebrate Sept. 15 - Oct. 15 with the young people in your life!

Career Exploration for Kids!

The importance of helping kids learn about different careers.

Filling the Child Care Gap for Families in Need

In an era where the cost and accessibility of child care have reached critical levels, organizations that prioritize the welfare and development of young people are more vital than ever

1. Providing Support and Mentorship

2. Safe Environments for Learning and Growth

3. Academic Success

4. Character Development

5. Healthy Lifestyles

6. Bridging the Child Care Gap

7. Affordable and Accessible Child Care

8. Fostering Positive Relationships

9. Serving the Community

10. A Lifeline in Child Care Deserts

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kingsport opens new Panda Cares Center of Hope classroom

Exploring culture is a great way to learn about other people while deepening respect for diversity and inclusion.
With these Hispanic Heritage Month ideas, you can celebrate Sept. 15 - Oct. 15 with the young people in your life!