How 3 Club Teens Are Turning Their
Dreams into Reality
When a young person steps into their local Boys & Girls Club, they’re getting more than just a safe place to go after school—they’re gaining access to the tools, support, and opportunities to help them unlock their potential, dream bigger, and reshape their future.
According to Jennifer Bateman, Boys & Girls Clubs’ SVP of Youth Development, when young people are provided with positive opportunities and nurturing environments, they can achieve extraordinary things—and Clubs play a pivotal role by offering programs designed to help kids and teens thrive. Whether it’s helping them embrace their identity, prioritize mental health, or connect with mentors and career opportunities, they’re empowering young people to aim higher and pursue their passions.
Meet three Club teens who’ve defied the odds and turned their dreams into reality—from showcasing their designs at New York Fashion Week to performing the national anthem at the World Series.
Pearle
For Pearle, a 19-year-old vocalist and performer from Sequim, Washington, her experience at Boys & Girls Clubs has been the ultimate journey of self-discovery. While her passion for singing has always been clear, pursuing music as a career became a reality when opportunities she found at her local Club led her to the chance to sing the national anthem at the World Series—twice.
With the unwavering support of her Olympic Peninsula Club’s career development programs, performance opportunities, and mentorship, Pearle has not only honed her talents but also built the confidence to go after her dreams. “Her story underscores how these kinds of programs can help young people discover and embrace their identities,” says Bateman.
Now studying Lyric Theater at the University of Illinois, Pearle is on her way to a future as an actress in musical theater—an ambition she credits Boys & Girls Clubs for helping her discover.
Langston
A young fashion designer and entrepreneur, Langston made his New York Fashion Week debut at just 13 years old—an incredible achievement that’s not only a testament to his talents, but also to the life-changing opportunities provided by his local Club. Through a program called Fashion Industry Club offered at the Southeast Michigan Boys & Girls Club, Langston gained the hands-on experience and industry exposure needed to get his designs on the runway while still in high school.
Langston was able to build valuable connections and gain the inspiration needed to kickstart his career. This experience led to his selection for the prestigious Maison Black Fashion Mentoring program, through which he showcased his designs at NYFW. “This experience boosted his self-confidence and provided him with valuable skills and networks that will last a lifetime,” says Bateman.
But Langston’s journey doesn’t end there. Today, he’s the CEO of his very own clothing label, The Top, which aims to inspire its wearers to build confidence and
stay motivated.
Nico
Nico’s story is one of resilience and transformation: from overcoming mental health challenges that once held him back to pursuing a political science degree at Florida State University and aspiring to become a U.S. Congressman.
When Nico first walked through the doors of his local Northeast Florida Club, he was struggling with anxiety and behavioral issues, which stemmed from past traumas like facing homelessness. With the support of the Club’s trauma-informed programs and resources, he learned how to better navigate anxiety, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and ultimately regain control of his future. “Positive mental health is core to youth success in all areas, and we’re playing a huge role in providing proactive and responsive initiatives,” notes Bateman.
Beyond overcoming these hurdles, Nico made a lasting impact within his Club. He launched a hair salon offering free haircuts, fostering both connection and meaningful conversations among members. His evolution from someone seeking support to becoming a mentor and leader among his peers ultimately led him to be named Boys & Girls Clubs’ 2024-2025 National Youth of the Year, an honor that reflects his dedication to personal growth and community impact.
From now through the end of March, we’ll be supporting Boy & Girls Clubs of America by donating a portion of all online orders and hosting an array of in-store give-back events. Learn more here.
