By Melissa Froman | Vice President of Development
"For many years, I ran away and took my anger out on others until I found my second home. This place is the Wattles Bys & Girls Club."
These are the words spoken by Josh Brown, a five-year member of the Wattles Boys & Girls Club. In mid-January, Josh participated in an organization-wide competition and was named Youth of the Year for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Portland.
As a child, Josh faced homelessness, bullying, and minimal to no family support. With his parents in and out of jail, Josh found himself spiraling out of control when he wasn't in school. With the encouragment of a close friend, Josh began attending the Wattles Boys & Girls Club when he was in the 7th grade. According to Josh, the Boys & Girls Club turned his life around. His grades improved, he helped serve meals in the Club's kitchen, and refereed youth football games on the weekend. "I don't even like to think where my life would be if my friend had not introduced me to the Club. I started as a member, became a volunteer, and I am now a part-time staff member," notes Josh.
The Wattles Boys & Girls Club gave Josh the confience and leadership skills he needed and the family he desperately sought. Josh will graduate in June from Franklin High School and plans to be the first in his family to attend college.
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