When kids have access to positive environments and opportunities to learn, grow, and explore their potential, there’s truly no limit to what they can achieve. Just ask Ashanti Douglas, better known as Ashanti, or the “Princess of Hip Hop,” who spent her childhood at the Boys & Girls Club in Glen Cove, Long Island—the hometown of our very own Veronica Swanson Beard. The Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum singer and R&B icon has a career spanning over two decades, but what most don’t know is that those ambitions started at her local Boys & Girls Club where her mother taught dance. 

Since her years at the Boys & Girls Club, Ashanti has advocated and raised dollars for the organization now shaping the next generation of leaders, dreamers and talent.  

Here, she reflects on her favorite memories growing up in the Boys & Girls Club, the meaningful experience of giving back, and the pivotal Club moment that kickstarted her career. 

How did your experience with Boys & Girls Clubs of America shape your personal and professional growth? 

I’ve been involved with the Glen Cove Boys & Girls Club since I was a child—my mom taught dance there and would bring my little sister and I along, and my dad also played basketball there. I grew up taking dance classes, playing sports, and getting involved with committees that organized teen dances and talent shows. Our dance groups participated in events and competitions throughout Long Island. I even won my first talent show singing at my Club, which marked the beginning of my singing career!

What’s your favorite memory from your time at Boys & Girls Clubs?

One of my fondest memories is working with my Glen Cove Club right after my career had skyrocketed. I filmed my BET Christmas special there, and we spent the night wrapping gifts for the kids. I had the chance to perform on the same stage I did back when I was in middle school, singing Christmas songs and a few tracks from my first album. It felt so good to give back to my community—the children and parents were so excited!

Why are Boys & Girls Clubs so important for young people today?

Having access to a Boys & Girls Club in your community is so very crucial for young people, especially in today’s world. They offer a wide range of programs that help kids and teens thrive and discover who they want to be and how to succeed—not just in sports, but educational and career opportunities, too. It’s a safe, trustworthy place for kids to go after school, where they can do their homework with a tutor, read a book in the library, or take part in a variety of activities, from competitive sports to air hockey, ping pong, pool, board games, and so much more.