Submitted by Boys and Girls Clubs of Whatcom County
Staff, club members, parents, board members, volunteers, and community members all gathered at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Whatcom County, Bellingham Clubhouse for the 2015 Community Impact Report. The evening began with the official swearing in of 2015 Corporate Board officers followed by the awards and honors presentation, and culminated with the Youth of the Year speeches and winner presentation.
Terri Salstrom (President of Industrial Credit Union), who served as the Corporate Board Chair in 2013 and 2014, welcomed the incoming 2015 Chair, Erik Dyrland (Farmers Insurance). Erik grew up in the Boys and Girls Clubs in Whatcom County and now runs a successful business in the community that helped to raise him. His first-hand knowledge of the club impact, history of serving on the board, and knowing the Whatcom community all add to what makes him an ideal leader for this organization.
The awards and honors given at the event recognized individuals in the organization and the community who exemplify going all-in for club members. Awards given included:
- Board Member of the Year – Susan Rice for her leadership on the Boys & Girls Clubs of Whatcom County Foundation Board.
- Staff Member of the Year – Lynn Schreiber for her dedication to delivering needed programs to Clubs across the county.
- Lou Parberry Award – Rocky Tanguay for his pivotal role in bringing the Clubs to Whatcom County by being the first Chair of the Board.
- Community Impact Award – Mark and Helen Packer for their interest in being the investors to catapult the academic achievement program, iStride, in the Clubs.
CEO, Heather Powell, was excited to announce the night’s most anticipated honor: Youth of the Year. Tina La of the Bellingham Clubhouse was selected to represent the Boys & Girls Clubs of Whatcom County at the state competition in March. Tina’s story is one that goes beyond overcoming obstacles and Powell is excited to work with her on this journey. “I am proud of all of our youth who are willing to tell their personal stories to a room full of strangers. Tina’s is a story about how the club helped her become a dedicated and successful student and a giving community member who has great plans for her future. I look forward working with her on her journey to the state competition,” said Powell.
More information about this event can be found by calling the organization at 360-738-3808.
