Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer Chairs Boys and Girls Club Fundraising Breakfast

April 14, 2009

Summary

Story

University of Washington’s new head football coach Steve Sarkisian was the featured guest speaker at the Federal Way & Auburn Boys and Girls Club and EX3 Teen Center 17th annual “Breakfast for Kids” fundraiser at Emerald Downs in Auburn. The event raised a record setting $60,000 for our kids and teens in South King County.

Executive Director Shelley Puariea reminded us all, that as individuals we can make a difference in the life of a child. We all have the potential to make an impact on our youth as mentors and role models.

“In this difficult economic time,” said Puariea, “it is truly a testament to our community that so many are willing to come together to support this organization and its mission.”

Teo Friedeck, a Federal Way AmeriCorps volunteer and Thomas Jefferson High School alumni provided an inspiring rendition of the Star Spangled Banner, and the Boys & Girls Club 2008 Youth of the Year, Alexa Hartman, moved the audience with her testimonial about what the club has meant to her. The audience was captivated by Master of Ceremonies Jeff Stokes’ enthusiasm.

“It was a privilege to have Coach Sarkisian as our guest speaker today,” said von Reichbauer. “His successes on and off the football field are because of his work ethic and high aspirations. As the new coach of the Huskies he has many challenges before him, but it is his emphasis on a winning attitude that will get his team to attain more victories in 2009; and it is this winning attitude that will help kids from the Boys and Girls Club achieve success in their personal and academic life.”

During his speech Coach Sarkisian spoke about his childhood and being the youngest of seven children. When reminiscing about his career successes he let the audience know that they were a result of never settling for what is supposed to be.

The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those that need us the most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens. According to the King County Housing Authority, when a Boys & Girls Club opens in a neighborhood, the community sees a 24% drop in crime, a 38% decrease in emergency medical service calls and a 70% decrease in vandalism.

“Our community understands how important it is to invest in South King County’s youth,” said von Reichbauer. “And with all the talk of economic stimulus packages, it is the community coming together that creates a social stimulus package for those who need our help the most.”



Pictured: Pete von Reichbauer, Steve Sarkisian-University of Washington Head Football Coach, Shelley Pueriea-Executive Director Federal Way/Auburn Boys and Girls Club