HOW A SMALL GROUP OF VISIONARIES SPARKED A REGIONAL MOVEMENT FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
Columbia, TN – In 1986, a small group of community leaders in Maury County recognized a quiet crisis unfolding close to home. Each afternoon between 3 and 6 p.m., countless children in Columbia were left alone—without supervision, structure, or a safe place to belong. While parents worked late to provide for their families, their children were left on their own. In those critical after-school hours, when kids were most at risk, too many were left alone—vulnerable to danger, bad decisions, and a world that didn’t always have their best interest at heart.
These community leaders understood that these young people weren’t lacking potential—they were lacking opportunity. So, with a vision, compassion, and an unwavering belief in what was possible, they took action. They planted the seed for something greater: a vision for a space where every child could feel seen, supported, and inspired to thrive—a place where great futures could begin.
That seed grew into the Boys & Girls Club of Maury County—now known as Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee. What follows is the story of its evolution: a journey defined by resilience, leadership, and a belief that every child deserves a great future.
1986 – From Uncertainty to Opportunity
The Boys & Girls Club of Maury County didn’t start with a building—it started with a belief. In borrowed spaces like church basements and community rooms, a small group of determined locals came together to meet a growing need. With limited resources but unlimited heart, they built a grassroots movement fueled by one shared conviction: that every child deserves more than their circumstances. Among the visionaries who laid the foundation for Boys & Girls Clubs of Maury County were Ora Thompson, Larry Barner, Hernandez Paco Havard, Jennifer Graham, John Stevens, Jim Criswell, and James Martin—local leaders united by a deep belief in the promise of youth. With limited resources but limitless determination, they rallied community support and created a safe, structured environment where kids could trade uncertainty for opportunity.
Momentum grew thanks in part to an extraordinary act of generosity. Ora Thompson, a local advocate who believed deeply in the Boys & Girls Club mission, offered a $50,000 donation to help launch the organization—a remarkable contribution that inspired action and made the Club’s first year possible. “The usual path for a nonprofit is that a group comes together with an idea and then goes searching for funding. But this happened the other way around,” recalled founding board member Daniel Eslick. “There was a woman here in Columbia—Miss Ora Thompson—who discovered the Boys & Girls Club model and came to us asking for help. She offered a $50,000 check, which was a lot of money back then, to get it started and carry it through the first year. That gift gave us encouragement to put everything in motion. What you see today began with her thoughtfulness and philanthropy.” In a rural region like Maury County, the need for a place like the Boys & Girls Club was urgent. On April 4, 1995, the Community Development Corporation of Tennessee began exploring the idea of formally establishing a Club in Columbia. Just a few months later, on July 18, 1995, the community held a kickoff luncheon to celebrate the effort. The Boys & Girls Club of Maury County received its official nonprofit status on December 6, 1995.
From the beginning, the Club’s mission was clear: to provide at-risk, underprivileged, and socially disadvantaged youth with a safe haven—an environment that nurtures their potential, supports their growth, and gives them a place to just be kids. But it didn’t stop there. The Club also set out to equip teens and young adults with tools to become strong citizens, confident parents, and compassionate leaders for the future. On September 27, 1995, Boys & Girls Club of Maury County officially appointed its inaugural Board of Directors, a group whose leadership and vision would guide the organization’s early growth. The founding board members included:
- Hernandez P. Havard
- Rev. Talvin Barner
- Donna Hunt
- Richard Smith Sr.
- Dora Mack
- Millicent Thompson
- Jennifer Graham
- Homer Martin
- John Pointer
- Andre’ Martin
- Eugene Bond
- Ophelia Tisby
- Rev. Leland Webster
- Jacqueline Martin
- Jim Cook
- James York
- Freddie Boges
Jennifer Graham, one of the original board members, continues to serve today. Her enduring involvement is a testament to the vision and legacy built from that first spark. “I remember that there were several local leaders that wanted this community to have a Boys and Girls Club. They were all men that I respected and wanted to help get a club started because they saw the need and I trusted them, and was more than willing to serve them and be a part of creating something for the kids in this area! I wasn’t really familiar with the Boys & Girls Club but along the way, I learned how awesome it is and how blessed we are to have this.”
Late 1980s–1990s – Perseverance and Passion for Youth
The early days of the Club were anything but easy. With little more than a vision and borrowed spaces, programs came to life in church basements, school gyms, and wherever the doors happened to be open. Funding was limited, but what they lacked in resources, they made up for in heart, determination, and an unshakable commitment to the kids who they knew needed them most. When founding leader James Martin stepped away, retired business executive and board member John Stephens quietly stepped in—not for recognition, but out of service. He agreed to lead as Executive Director, “just for a while.” That while became nearly a decade. At first, Stephens worked for free. Eventually, he accepted a modest salary. But pay was never what motivated him—it was purpose. Under his guidance, the Club expanded from serving 40 kids a day to more than 150. He formed partnerships with local law enforcement to reduce youth crime. He helped build a second Club site. And through every challenge, he led with humility, heart, and conviction.
One of Stephens’ greatest contributions was building a strong team. A year and a half into his tenure, he hired a young candidate named Chris Poynter—unseasoned but full of promise—as his assistant. “He was the youngest, with no experience,” Stephens later reflected, “but he had all the qualities we knew mattered most.” Years later, at the Club’s annual auction fundraiser, Stephens officially announced his retirement and passed the torch to Poynter, now Chief Professional Officer. “I’m proudest of the capable team we’ve built,” Stephens said. “They’re ready to carry this mission forward.”
That mission still burns bright. Pauleisa, a current Club member, captured it best: “When I first started coming to the Boys & Girls Club, I used to get into a lot of fights and had trouble communicating. I’ve learned that every action doesn’t need a reaction.” The Club’s story during this time wasn’t just one of growth—it was one of deep, personal conviction.“It was an opportunity given to me by God,” shared co-founder Hernandez Paco Havard. “A friend of mine was killed at age seven on his way to the Club. That loss—what was lacking for kids like him—fueled everything. And we kept going, no matter the obstacles.” Those early days weren’t easy, but they were transformative. Staff remember the moments that made the hard work worth it: “Kids are usually a subject of their environment,” one team member shared. “Sometimes, all they need is to be taken out of that and shown something different. When you see the gears in their minds start to turn—that’s a beautiful thing.”
2000s – A Turning Point for the Club
In the 2000s, the Club began to formalize its vision and expand its impact. Under the guidance of Chris Poynter, the organization strengthened its operational infrastructure and built deeper partnerships throughout the community. Soon after, Robyn Peery took the reins as Executive Director, ushering in a period of transformative growth. Programming expanded. Staff development became professionalized. Partnerships with local schools deepened, and a data-informed approach to outcomes became central to how success was measured. As a result, youth attendance steadily climbed—and the Club’s reach extended across Maury County. “With the Club now serving more than 600 kids, Boys & Girls Clubs of Maury County are uniquely positioned to impact generations in our community and help each child, and especially those who need us most, achieve their dreams,” — Drew Parker, 2017 Board Chairman. As part of this commitment to youth development, the Club launched new programs to recognize and inspire excellence among its members. One such initiative, the Outstanding Club Member (OCM) Program, was introduced to honor youth who embody the values and highest standards of the Boys & Girls Club mission.
The quarterly program, developed by board members and modeled after the national Youth of the Year program, challenges youth to grow as well-rounded individuals—excelling not only in academics, but also in leadership, character, and community engagement. “I think the OCM Program will help our youth understand that it’s important to be a well-rounded individual—one who excels in school, but also looks at the world around them and asks, ‘What can I do to help?’”— Vivian Cathey, Board Member and Committee Chair. The first recipients of the Outstanding Club Member (OCM) award were chosen through a thoughtful and rigorous process, which included both essay writing and in-person interviews with the selection committee. “This is a very well thought out program,” noted Assistant Executive Director Chris Poynter. “Every portion is designed to help youth cultivate skills they can use today—and carry with them into the future.” Then-CEO John Stephens echoed that sentiment, crediting the initiative’s success to those who helped build it: “This program wouldn’t be possible without the support of the dedicated volunteer committee who brought it to life, and the business partners who continue to invest in our mission.”
2018 – Expansion, Recognition, and a Growing Regional Legacy
By 2018, the Club’s momentum was undeniable. Boys & Girls Clubs of Maury County had not only expanded its footprint but tripled the number of youth served in just 24 months—an achievement that earned national recognition. On February 21, during Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Southeast Leadership Conference in Atlanta, the organization was awarded the Gateway to Impact Award, the top honor for growth and performance across 13 southeastern states.
The award reflected a 1,200% increase in Average Daily Attendance (ADA)—the highest growth rate in the entire region and among the top in the nation. “It was thrilling to be recognized by BGCA for all the long hours our staff and Board of Directors put in to ensure the expansions of 2016 and 2017 were successful,” said then-CEO Robyn Peery. “By building good character and citizenship, healthy lifestyles, and driving academic success, we’ve helped countless kids not only graduate on time but become responsible, caring adults who achieve their goals.” That same year, a one-time grant from Boys & Girls Clubs of America helped the organization expand its impact even further. In December 2017, a merger with the Boys & Girls Club of Pulaski became official, establishing a new site in Giles County. The Pulaski Club quickly opened its doors, serving nearly 20 students each day and becoming an essential resource for local families. The expansion came in response to an urgent need. After the independent Pulaski Club faced financial hardship and was forced to close, Boys & Girls Clubs of Maury County was approached by both BGCA and the Pulaski Board of Directors to assume operations. Dozens of children had been left without a safe place to go after school. Recognizing the gravity of the moment, BGC Maury stepped in—reviving the Club as a new unit and continuing its mission, strengthened by national support and a deep local commitment.
The expansion was about more than just geography—it was about meeting a deep and growing need. Nearly 4,000 children in Maury County alone lived at or below the poverty line, and 72% of BGCSCTN members required assistance with Club dues. “Even though we’ve expanded our membership to include families of every income level and makeup,” said Peery, “this is why the community’s continued support is especially critical as we work to ensure that every child has a Boys & Girls Club to call home.” In Pulaski, the Club’s presence sparked a renewed sense of community momentum. During the Club’s annual banquet at the Pulaski Recreation Center, board members shared renderings of proposed expansions to the building on Cherry Street, part of a campaign titled Impact 2012. The vision: a larger, more inclusive Club facility capable of serving the increasingly diverse needs of Giles County’s youth.
“With our success over the past two years and growing partnerships in the community, we knew our youth deserved more,” said Marcus Houston, outgoing president of the Pulaski Boys & Girls Club. “We set a goal to raise $100,000 through community support and grant matches to make this vision a reality.” Assistant Executive Director Chris Poynter was the keynote speaker at the banquet, joined by National Boys & Girls Club representative Chet Nichols. They emphasized the power of partnership and the importance of sustained investment in youth development. Throughout the evening, the Club honored key supporters, including staff members Jeremiah Primus and April Owens, volunteers Vivian Sims and April Cooper, and businesses like Frito-Lay, Timken, and Martin Methodist College, whose contributions helped stabilize and strengthen the Club.
2019 – National Recognition for Education
In 2019, Boys & Girls Clubs of Maury County (BGCMC) earned one of the highest distinctions in the nation for its commitment to academic success. At Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s National Conference in Houston, Texas, BGCMC received the Program Honor Award for Education & Career Development, recognizing its Academic Case Management Program as the top academic initiative across more than 4,300 Clubs nationwide.
The honor spotlighted a program developed locally in Maury County—built on the idea that every child, no matter their background, deserved the tools and support needed to succeed in school and graduate on time. This program combined certified-teacher-led tutoring with individualized case management. Staff worked closely with students, parents, and schools—leveraging the school district’s parent portal and even attending parent/teacher conferences on behalf of families when needed. The impact of this program is measurable and profound. Among students who enrolled in this program, 70% improved their GPA each school year, 90% improved in at least one academic subject and 100% were promoted to the next grade on time. The program’s success was rooted in relationships—between Club staff and families, tutors and students, and local schools and the Club itself. Parents of enrolled youth trusted Club staff to act as advocates and educational partners, while school personnel saw the Club as a vital extension of the student support system.
“We are so honored to be recognized on the national level for this program, which was developed locally, right here in Maury County,” said then-CEO Robyn Peery. “Our front-line staff and tutors work tirelessly to ensure great futures are within reach for every kid who walks through our doors. We couldn’t do what we do without their dedication—and the strong partnership we have with Maury County Public Schools.”
2020 – A New Name, A Regional Vision
By 2020, the organization had grown far beyond its original boundaries. What began as a local effort in Columbia had evolved into a regional force, serving youth across two counties. To better reflect this broader impact—and to position itself for future growth—Boys & Girls Clubs of Maury County officially rebranded as Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee (BGCSCTN).
The name change honored the organization’s roots while recognizing the expanded mission and geographic reach. It acknowledged the Club’s deep commitment not only to Maury County, but also to Giles County, where a critical chapter of its growth had unfolded. “We are excited to announce our new name, Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee,” said then-CEO Robyn Peery. “This more accurately represents our service area and is inclusive of our programs in Giles County through the Pulaski Club, which served 120 kids last year.” The move also reflected the Club’s dramatic growth in Maury and Giles County. BGCSTN became the before- and after-school care provider for the entire Maury County Public School system, leading to the opening of 11 new school-based sites—from Columbia and Spring Hill to Santa Fe and Hampshire. By 2020, the Club had tripled its membership, serving more than 1,200 youth annually across Columbia, Mt. Pleasant, Culleoka, and Pulaski.
“It has always been our goal to reach as many young people as possible,” Peery said. “The rebrand was more than a name change—it was a commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and a future where every child in South Central Tennessee has the opportunity to build a great future.” With a unified name and a growing presence, BGCSCTN stood as a beacon of opportunity for youth across the region.
2021 – Leading the March Through Perilous Times
In 2021, Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee was honored with the prestigious Set the Pace Award by The Professional Association. This national recognition celebrated the organization’s deep commitment to professional development, elevating youth work as a respected, long-term career path. Through rigorous training, mentorship, and investment in frontline staff, BGCSCTN continued to set the standard for excellence in the field of youth development.
But 2021 was also a year defined by something less visible, yet equally powerful: resilience. As the world grappled with the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, BGCSCTN remained a constant in kids’ lives. While schools shifted to virtual instruction and families faced job loss and uncertainty, the Club adapted—keeping doors open, extending hours, and offering full-day support for remote learning. Staff and volunteers stepped up in extraordinary ways to ensure kids didn’t fall behind or feel forgotten. “Without the Boys & Girls Club, I wouldn’t have been able to do my job over the last year,” said Kristin Patterson, a new nurse working with COVID patients. “They supported my kids while I was saving lives. I knew they were safe, loved, and still learning.” Kristin’s children, Amelia and Elias, found confidence, structure, and academic support at the Club during the most uncertain time in their lives. The Club ran 10-hour days to support remote learning, helped kids complete online assignments, and provided one-on-one tutoring that made a lasting impact. And she wasn’t alone.
Single mother Jamessya, a former Club kid herself, turned to the Club when she lost her job. Her children, Damiya and Tronice, received scholarships for membership, personalized tutoring, and behavioral support from caring staff. The Club became a lifeline—helping her children thrive academically and socially while also connecting her to job opportunities. “The Club gives single mothers an opportunity to work,” she said. “It’s reasonably priced, and it provides opportunities for kids to grow.” In a time when everything felt uncertain, the Club was one thing families could count on. Beyond the awards and accolades, it was the everyday presence—the quiet consistency—that mattered most.
2022 – Leadership and Legacy
In 2022, Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee celebrated a transformative year of leadership, recognition, and renewed vision for the future. Robyn Peery, who had shepherded the organization through years of exponential growth, was honored with the prestigious Southeast Region Executive of the Year Award from The Professional Association—a distinction recognizing her bold leadership, strategic innovation, and unshakable commitment to the Club’s mission. Shortly after, Peery transitioned into a national role with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, continuing to influence the movement on a national scale. As the baton was passed, the organization announced a new chapter. Ginny Wright, a lifelong Boys & Girls Club professional with over two decades of experience, was unanimously named Chief Executive Officer by the Board of Directors. A Tennessee native, Wright returned to Middle Tennessee with a passion for youth, a proven track record of transformational leadership, and a heartfelt commitment to the mission of the Clubs. “I will be here for every child that walks through our doors—because that is what they deserve,” said Wright.
Alongside this transition, Chief Operations Officer Josh Campbell received multiple honors for his exceptional service and impact. He was named Tennessee’s Professional of the Year and awarded the BGCA Train the Trainer Award. Campbell’s leadership has been instrumental in expanding to 14 sites, enhancing programming, and professionalizing staff development across the region. He also boasts national accolades including the 2021 Set the Pace Award and the 2019 Program Honor Award for the top Academic Success Program in the nation. In recognition of his legacy of generosity and tireless advocacy, Columbia businessman and longtime Board Member Don Crichton was inducted into the Tennessee Boys & Girls Clubs Hall of Fame. Crichton and his wife Eva James have been pivotal supporters of the Club, helping expand school-based sites and lead capital campaigns that made it possible for hundreds more kids to access life-changing programs. The year was also a powerful reminder of the Club’s deeper purpose: showing up for every child and family who needs them. As one parent, Allison, put it:
“I will forever be grateful for the training the staff had and the way they supported my daughter. While I was at work, they cared for her without hesitation—never once saying, ‘we can’t do this’ or ‘this is too much.’ It’s rare to find people so prepared and willing to truly show up for a child the way they did.”
2024 – National Accolades for Culture and Safety
In 2024, Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee reached new heights—both in national recognition and in community impact. The organization was honored with two of Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s most prestigious distinctions: The Roxanne Spillett Culture of Safety Award, naming BGCSCTN the safest Club organization in the country, and The Culture of Learning Award, celebrating unparalleled excellence in staff development and coaching. These accolades were the result of years of intentional work. Staff across all sites earned national certifications in trauma-informed care, philanthropy, and safety. Leaders presented at conferences, mentored other Clubs across the nation, and created a culture where youth development is not only a job—but a calling. “A year ago, I was a quiet kid who didn’t talk to anyone. Now I’m leading my peers at Clubs and school, speaking at major events, and planning for college. The Club helped me find my voice—and believe in what’s possible.”— Junior, Club Member
As the Club deepened its safety and learning standards, it also made a bold move to expand access: Teen membership fees were fully waived. This initiative removed financial barriers for hundreds of middle and high school students across Maury and Giles Counties. “Twenty-five dollars a week adds up—over a month, that’s $100, which could be daycare or gas money,” shared Haley Johnson, Teen Services Director. “For some families, that’s the difference between paying a bill or keeping the lights on. Removing these fees helps lift that burden.” The impact has already been felt. Membership is growing, and teens are connecting to mentorship, mental health supports, and academic tools. For some families, the change was life-changing. “I really just burst into tears,” one parent shared. “With everything else—medical bills, stress—I didn’t know how I’d afford this. This was truly a blessing.”BGCSCTN knows that removing the fee is only the first step. Staying relevant and engaging older youth remains a daily effort. “Teens have so much going on—sports, jobs, family,” said Johnson. “Our challenge now is to be the place they want to be after all that. And I’m excited to meet that challenge.”
In recognition of long-standing champions of youth access, the Columbia Teen Center was renamed the Don & Eva James Crichton Teen Center. Don and Eva James have been instrumental in expanding the Club’s reach and resources, often stepping up to give more—without ever asking for recognition.“Seeing their names will be a continual inspiration,” said Board Chair Gale Moore. “Their generosity serves as a beacon to enliven us.” This year also brought a major funding commitment: Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee pledged a four-year investment in BGCSCTN, building on 15 years of loyal support. “They’ve left an indelible mark on our youth and our mission,” said CEO Ginny Wright. “From sponsoring events to donating gifts for hundreds of kids through our Angel Tree program, Farm Bureau’s partnership is a shining example of corporate citizenship.”
“We’re proud to support the mission of Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee,” added Farm Bureau CEO Jeff Pannell. “The work they do truly has a lasting impact on the lives of so many in our area.” BGCSCTN continues to lead the field not only with safe environments and strong staff—but by removing barriers and centering youth in every decision. “It was a positive experience, and I’ve never forgotten my time at the Club,” shared alumnus and current Club parent Princeton. “I met people at the Club who are still friends to this day.”
Looking Ahead: A Legacy in Motion
Nearly four decades ago, a handful of Maury County leaders saw a quiet crisis and decided to act. They didn’t build a Club just for the moment—they built it for the future. Today, that future is still unfolding. Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee is no longer just one Club—it’s a collection of safe spaces for youth to thrive and become their best selves. A network of hope, support, and possibility that spans 14 sites across Maury and Giles Counties. We now serve more than 1,500 young people annually, backed by a team of trained professionals, proven programs, and a culture rooted in safety, learning, and love.
But we’re not done yet.
In Pulaski, kids need the Club now more than ever—not just for a place to go, but for a place to belong. A space that reflects the same care, dignity, and limitless potential they carry within themselves. Right now, our facility doesn’t live up to that promise. A cramped game room, an outdated kitchen, and a deteriorating trailer with no central air fall far short of what our youth deserve. That’s why, over the next 18 months, we’re launching a $1 million renovation to completely reimagine the Pulaski Club—a transformation that will send a powerful message to every child who walks through our doors: “You matter.” The proposed renovation will:
- Expand and modernize the facility to welcome more members safely
- Eliminate the trailer and create dedicated rooms for tutoring, STEM, creative arts, and quiet study
- Add a teen-only space to foster independence and identity for older youth
- Renovate the kitchen, enabling the service of state-funded, nutritious meals year-round
- Build a Dream Court—a world-class outdoor basketball space co-funded by the Nancy Lieberman Foundation, designed to spark joy, build confidence, and strengthen community ties.
The Nancy Lieberman Foundation has generously pledged $75,000 toward the Dream Court—now, we’re inviting our community to help us raise the remaining half and bring this space to life.
But our vision for growth goes even further.
In Spring Hill, where rapid growth meets rising need, we’re laying the groundwork for a permanent Club facility that will triple our average daily attendance. This future Club will be more than a building—it will be a cornerstone of opportunity, reaching more kids, empowering more families, and strengthening more neighborhoods with the full impact of Boys & Girls Club programming. “Our long-term vision is to serve every student in Maury and Giles Counties, preparing them for whatever comes next—college, career, or life,” said Board Chair Gale Moore. “We especially hope to build a facility in Spring Hill, where the need is great. That’s our dream.”
“I see the Club as raising future leaders for our community,” shared founding and current board member Jennifer Graham. “We just might have a future mayor or governor in our Club right now. I’ve been honored to be part of this mission since the beginning,” Graham continued. “The direction of children’s lives is changing here every day. Their stories can melt a heart—and ignite a movement.” From renaming our Columbia Teen Center in honor of Don & Eva James Crichton, to removing financial barriers for teens, to being recognized as the safest Boys & Girls Club organization in the country—2024 was a year of momentum, milestones, and meaningful progress. But while facilities, programs, and accolades help tell our story, the heart of it has always remained unchanged:
A child stepping through our doors.
A voice that finally feels heard.
A future sparked into motion.
We believe every child deserves that chance—and we’re only just beginning.
