I believe strongly in the power of positive recognition and rewards. I love watching our members beaming and smiling from ear to ear - building their self-esteem, improving relationships with staff and peers, and overall encouraging their drive to do their best.

This week, the Martin V. Smith Youth Center held their annual awards ceremony for all members, which included awards such as most improved, most positive, sports awards, kindness awards, founding STEAM Center class, and more. Parents and family were in attendance as well.

Orlando, who has been attending the MVS Boys & Girls Club for four years and is now 9 years old, received multiple awards this evening. They included most improved and honorable STEAM member, as staff have witnessed his tremendous growth over the past year especially. He initially needed guidance with behavioral concerns but is now making positive choices and even asks staff daily if they need any help. He now actively participates in the Kindness is Free program as well as the STEAM Innovation Center. He even led the drone module during the Spring STEAM Fair!

I am so proud of them all and I am looking forward to all the incredible things our members will continue doing throughout the summer!