The 17th Breakfast for Kids at Emerald Downs recently raised a record $60,000 to support youth programs in the Federal Way/Auburn Boys and Girls Club.
University of Washington football coach Steve Sarkisian was the featured guest speaker. The Huskies’ new coach, just 35 years old, shared stories of “teachable moments” from his past that led to success.
He encourages others to get involved today and help show kids the way.
“We’ve got to change the way we think today,” Sarkisian said. “Our youth and the kids we deal with get faced with so many adversities in life. It takes us as their mentors to support them and get through those adverse times.”
At the breakfast, King County Council member Pete von Reichbauer reiterated Sarkisian’s example of having a winning attitude and how that applies to investing in South King County’s youth.
“Our community understands how important it is to invest in South King County’s youth,” von Reichbauer said. “And with all the talk of economic stimulus packages, it is the community coming together that creates a social stimulus package for those who need our help the most.”
Shelley Puariea, executive director of the Boys and Girls Club Federal Way/Auburn, reminded people in the community can make a difference in the lives of children. Individuals have the potential to make an impact on youth as mentors and role models, she said.
“In this difficult economic time,” Puariea said, “it is truly a testament to our community that so many are willing to come together to support this organization and its mission.”
According to the King County Housing Authority, when a Boys & Girls Club opens in a neighborhood, the community sees a 24-percent drop in crime, a 38-percent decrease in emergency medical service calls and a 70-percent decrease in vandalism.
Learn more
To learn more about the Federal Way/Auburn Boys and Girls Club, visit www.fw-bgc.org or call 206-954-2926. Also e-mail Shelley Puariea at spuariea@positiveplace.org
To learn more about the EX3 Ron Sandwith Teen Center, call 253-681-6500.
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