Last month, the Boys & Girls Club of Henderson County welcomed Instructional Coaches from Henderson County Public Schools for a special luncheon facilitated by Program Director Jessica Reilly. The event offered space for collaboration, conversation, and a firsthand look at how the Club helps local youth thrive beyond the school day.

For many of the Instructional Coaches, it was their first time touring the Club. They experienced not only the wide range of academic and enrichment programs offered, but also the vibrant, welcoming environment built through the care and dedication of staff, donors, and founders. The result is a beautiful, colorful, and joyful space where young people feel at home.

Reilly explained, “The more our schools understand what we offer, the better we can work together to meet kids’ needs. Instructional Coaches are key advocates for students, and this event gave them the chance to see how our programs can support the work already happening in classrooms.”

Ryan Mitchell, an instructional coach at Dana Elementary, emphasized the importance of reaching vulnerable students. “The kids that need it the most are getting what they need in the time that they need it,” he said. “Our collaboration is centered around making sure kids are fed, loved, cared for, and supported academically.”

For Abby Steinhart, Instructional Coach at Clear Creek and Fletcher Elementary, the tutoring partnership stands out. “We’ve been able to connect our most at-risk students with afterschool tutoring at the Club,” she said. “Teachers have seen not only an increase in scores, but also in student confidence and participation in class.”

Kelly Cranford, Instructional Coach at Sugarloaf and Mills River Elementary, noted the sense of belonging the Club provides. “Everybody needs a place to belong, and that includes students,” she said. “The Boys & Girls Club gives them people in their corner; helping with homework, cheering them on, and providing opportunities they wouldn’t otherwise have.”

The luncheon also sparked ideas for new collaborations, from involving high school students in Club projects to exploring creative new recreational opportunities for members.

“The Instructional Coaches left with a deeper understanding of what happens at the Club every day,” Reilly added. “They’re now equipped to bring that knowledge back to their schools so together we can better identify and support the kids who need us most.”

The Club plans to continue hosting similar events to strengthen relationships with school leaders and ensure that every child in Henderson County has access to the care, connection, and opportunities they deserve. Serving youth from 20 schools across the county, the Boys & Girls Club of Henderson County provides year-round programs that nurture the physical, emotional, cultural, and social development of every child, helping them build the foundation for a great future, no matter their circumstances.

The next luncheon will be held on October 24th for the Student Services Team from Henderson County Public Schools.