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HERO OF THE YEAR

Hero of the Year

A COMMUNITY-LED CAMPAIGN TO CHAMPION KIDS AND BUILD GREAT FUTURES

About the Hero of the Year Program

Hero of the Year is a six-week annual fundraising and awareness peer championship campaign led by Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee. Each year, a select group of influential community leaders is nominated to use their voice, networks, and leadership to advance the Club’s mission—raising critical support for safe spaces, academic success, mentorship, and leadership development for local youth.

Funds raised through Hero of the Year are invested directly back into Boys & Girls Club programs in the candidate’s home community—supporting safe spaces, academic enrichment, mentorship, and leadership development for kids and teens in Spring Hill and Pulaski. Every dollar raised helps strengthen the programs that make a difference right where our kids live and grow.

Hero of the Year Candidates

Hero candidates come from all walks of life—parents, educators, faith leaders, business professionals, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders—united by a passion for helping kids thrive. Over six weeks, candidates rally their communities to raise funds and awareness. While one is named Hero of the Year, every candidate becomes a champion for youth, making a lasting impact on the lives of kids across our region.

Communities Served The Hero of the Year program is rooted in the communities it serves. Each year, candidates represent Spring Hill and Pulaski, stepping forward as local champions for youth in the communities they reside.

Our current focus areas reflect the most urgent needs of our communities and the families who live there.

 100 Hero of the Year Champions since 2020 140K Total raised to support kids in South Central Tennessee since 2020 $1261 Average amount raised per champion
Be There for Hero of the Year

Get your tickets today and help us celebrate our Heroes

Your ticket is more than admission to an event — it is a show of support for kids who need safe places, caring adults, and every opportunity to succeed.

Tickets and Events Details

2025 Spring Hill Hero of the Year: Gina Fancher 2025 Pulaski Hero of the Year: Mary Bryant-Boyd Club Kids pose with Singer/Songwriter Walker Hayes, and Ivey Campbell at Hero of the Year celebration in Spring Hill Hero of the Year candidates are community members who step up for local youth. Through a six-week campaign, candidates raise funds and awareness for Boys & Girls Club kids—serving as advocates and role models while rallying their networks to make a lasting impact. BECOME A HERO FOR OUR KIDS You can help change the lives of many young people in your community. BECOME A HERO

Hero of the Year

MEET OUR 2025 HERO OF THE YEAR WINNERS

2025 Hero of the Year Spring Hill — Gina Fancher 

Gina Fancher is a lifelong advocate for youth and a proud Spring Hill resident of more than 20 years. Alongside her husband, Eric, she raised their two daughters, Makenzie and Rylee, with a deep commitment to community involvement and service. As the owner of Elevate Dance Studio, Gina has built a business rooted in inclusion, encouragement, and opportunity—values that reflect her belief that every child deserves to feel welcomed and supported.

Her dedication to young people extends far beyond her studio walls. Gina has served multiple years as a PTO President and as a WCS PTO Ambassador Chair, consistently stepping up to advocate for students and families. In recognition of decades of service and her tireless efforts to uplift youth, Gina was named the 2025 Hero of the Year, raising more than $5,000 in support of Boys & Girls Clubs. Her leadership, generosity, and heart for kids continue to make a lasting impact on the Spring Hill community and inspire others to lead with purpose.

2025 Hero of the Year Pulaski — Mary-Bryant Boyd

Mary-Bryant Boyd is an experienced esthetician and small business owner who has been a leader in the beauty industry since 2019. A devoted wife and mother, she is deeply rooted in her community and known for showing up where help is needed most. Mary-Bryant actively serves on the PTO, Rotary Club, the Women’s Domestic Violence Shelter Committee, and several other civic organizations—demonstrating a strong commitment to service and advocacy.

Her passion for helping others is at the heart of everything she does. As a Hero of the Year participant for Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee, Mary-Bryant proudly raised $3,115 in support of kids in Pulaski. Her leadership, generosity, and dedication reflect a deep belief in creating brighter futures for youth and strengthening the community she calls home.

Hero of the Year

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What if I agree to participate but I don’t meet my individual fundraising goals?

We realize that it may be more challenging for some to raise funds. Our goal in our Hero of the Year program is not only to raise funds but to raise awareness. Any amount raised will help us to continue to provide incredible programs for the youth in your community.

Will someone help me as I navigate my campaign?

Yes, our staff will be available to answer questions. You can always call or email us if you can’t find theanswer in this package! We are grateful for your efforts and we are here to help you.

What if someone asks a question and I don’t have an answer?

Our number one priority is to support you in your champion outreach. We are only a call, email, or text away.

What if I don’t have vast knowledge of Boys & Girls Clubs?

Your willingness to participate in this campaign shows your dedication to the mission. We will provide a reference sheet with some interesting facts for you to use/reference. And remember, we are here to help!

Are there any other ways I can fund my campaign?

Yes, we are looking for in-kind food and drink donations and that value would be credited to your account. Company matches are a great way to increase your fundraising quickly. Think outside the box – we know of a candidate that had a “baby shower” and “registered” for donations to their campaign

Hero of the Year

CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP

We invite you to consider joining us as a sponsor and community partner. Your support will not only help ensure great futures for the kids who need us most, but will also connect your brand to a mission that inspires trust, loyalty, and community pride. Sponsorship recognition can be tailored to your goals and may include media coverage, event promotions, and engagement opportunities with our members and families. 

For more information on Corporate Sponsorship, please contact Heather Graves at hgraves@bgcsctn.org

Ultimate Hero Level sponsorship offers the following benefits:

  • Two (2) priority tables at the celebration event
  • Recognition as the Presenting Sponsor
  • Sponsorship banner displayed on stage
  • Promotional table opportunity at the event
  • Ability to distribute branded items to attendees
  • Feature in a press release announcing partnership
  • Photo opportunity with Club kids at a Club site
  • One-year recognition on the corporate website
  • Logo in donor newsletters and the year-end impact report
  • Join the CEO for a lunch and Club tour with up to four guests
A smiling woman with long braided hair wearing a plaid shirt.

Super Hero Level sponsorship offers the following benefits:

  • One priority table at the event
  • Recognition in event promotions
  • Tabling opportunity at celebration event
  • Feature in press release
  • Photo opportunity with Club kids
  • One-year recognition on website
  • Logo included in donor newsletters
  • Acknowledgement in printed reports
A smiling teenage boy with folded arms wearing a plaid shirt.

Hero Level sponsorship offers the following benefits:

  • Priority seating at the event
  • Recognition in event promotions
  • Feature in press release
  • Photo opportunity with Club kids
  • One-year recognition on website
  • Logo in printed reports

Hero of the Year

Previous Hero of the Year Events

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