Boys to Men and Girls with Purpose (BMTGWP), a 501(c)3 nonprofit mentoring organization, recently organized a Gala to honor the children associated with the organization. BMTGWP, with over 100 members across five Dillon County schools, aims to empower and guide young individuals in developing their personal growth, leadership skills, and sense of purpose. The Gala provided a platform for Dillon County leaders, the community, and parents to recognize and commend the positive contributions of the next generation over the past school year. During this period, the children had the opportunity to visit Benedict College, Francis Marion University, Coastal Carolina University, and the University of South Carolina. The members were also actively involved in the community and service-learning causes, participating in events such as the Martin Luther King March, The Hype Program, Shopping with a Cop Christmas, Dillon Community Supply Giveaway, Lake View Christmas Supply Giveaway, and Lake View Car Show.
The distinguished keynote speakers at the event were former Latta High School celebrated athletes, Rubylee Wright and Tyreik McAllister. Their inspiring stories and words of wisdom served as a beacon of hope for the mentees, emphasizing the importance of faith, academics, setting goals, and pursuing dreams. Ms. Wright, a graduate and a former basketball player of Georgetown University in Washington, DC, has recently been hired as an assistant coach for the women’s basketball team at Wingate University, North Carolina. Tyreik McAllister, an alumnus of the University of Charleston in West Virginia and a standout football player, has signed to play in the NFL with the Las Vegas Raiders. Their journey from high school athletes to successful professionals in their respective fields is a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication, instilling hope and optimism in the mentees for their future.
During the inaugural event, each mentee was presented with an appreciation gift and a puzzle piece plaque bearing the message, “Never Forget, You are the Piece that made the Difference.” This message emphasizes their value and responsibility to improve themselves and their community. The event culminated with special awards being given to members of the organization.
The Douglas Pernell – Be the Change Award, a symbol of our commitment to positive change, was presented to individuals who have made significant strides in improving themselves and have a compelling influence on others. The mentees’ lives have changed remarkably since their affiliation with Boys to Men/Girls with Purpose. Mrs. Cynthia Pernell presented this award to three high school seniors, Ashlee Genwright, Kierra Bruce, and Destiny McDaniel.
Kierra Skipper received the Joan Evans Dedication Award for consistently demonstrating dedication to the program. She showed punctuality and preparedness, and her regular input of innovative ideas to enhance the program further underscored her commitment to its success.
The founders of BTMGWP, Robert and Kimberly Porter, and Board Members recognized Mayor Tally McColl, County Council Chairwoman Detrice McCollum-Dawkins (Dist. 3), and school principals for their attendance and continuous support. A special acknowledgment was extended to School Resource Officers Keith Stapleton, Ajani (AJ) Thompson, and Anzil Smith for their dedication and one-on-one mentoring at the schools. Thanks to Wayne Green and Second Chance (BTMGWP mentees) for the entertainment. BTMGWP Gala represents the parents and the community’s commitment to our youth. We sincerely appreciate the support and involvement of parents, without whom our mission would not be possible. We ask the local businesses and community members for continued support to expose our children to South Carolina’s academic and industry opportunities. Your donations make outings and events possible. Please visit our website at boystomengirlswithpurpose.org for the latest events.
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