Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) Native Services was thrilled to hear of the recent visit by United States Secretary of the Interior, Deb Haaland, to Boys & Girls Clubs of Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. Secretary Haaland was put into contact with Club leadership by Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben, who encouraged the visit to the Club’s Pearl River Teen Center to witness the impactful services provided by Native Clubs firsthand. Over fifty youth and their families were present at the Club for the Secretary’s inaugural visit.
“Our Club was honored to have Secretary Deb Haaland visit our Club to see the cultural programming we offer and meet our youth. Many of the kids found inspiration in meeting a Native woman who holds a prestigious role in society. Secretary Haaland even took the time to play basketball with some of the young women. Opportunities such as this visit are meaningful to Native youth, as it allows them to feel represented and encourages them to dream big and pursue greater opportunities in their futures,” said Glen Billie, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians.
As the largest Native youth service provider in the nation, BGCA Native Services is responsible to inspire Native youth through critical programming that is evidence-informed and culturally relevant. At Pearl River Teen Center, Native youth participate in beading classes, Native language instruction, young entrepreneurs, robotics engineering, STEM programming, physical activity and more.
“With great leadership and strong support from BGCA, their Tribal government as well as the Mackenzie Scott Foundation, this Club is a prime example of how Native Clubs are shaping future leaders. Watching young people whose lives have been impacted by these Clubs, in ways such as becoming leaders in their communities or inspiring change, is nothing short of amazing. On behalf of BGCA Native Services, we thank Secretary Haaland for being a voice for Tribal nations across the country and our most precious resource, our Native youth,” said Carla Knapp, National Vice President of Native Services, BGCA.
