In life there are sometimes “full circle” moments that help us appreciate things more, provide some needed perspective or produce nostalgia and fond memories. 

I was fortunate to experience one of those moments recently. It stemmed from my days as a youth in the River Valley that would impact me for the rest of my life. 

After church, my family and school, spending time at the Jeffrey’s Boy’s Club in Fort Smith helped shape my life most. I – as well as my brother and sister – spent a lot of time playing sports with friends and finding new ways to have a great time under that care and guidance. During that time, friendships were built and strengthened while local leaders served as positive influences, always taking the time and effort to steer us in the right direction.

I am hardly alone in cherishing the days I spent as a young person in this special setting.

The work of the Boys & Girls Club helps change lives by providing a safe, supportive environment for kids and teens to grow, find belonging and help them reach their full potential. This critical work has been happening for decades, and next year will mark the exciting 70th anniversary since it received a congressional charter to carry out a calling that has resulted in millions of lives influenced and countless opportunities for learning, growth and fun.

These aspects are part of a formative experience of every child who has interacted with a club in their community.

Today, through 5,400 clubs across the nation, the Boys & Girls Club has incredible reach. Over 400,000 American kids enter its doors daily, cutting across racial and other demographic divides while serving as a second home for many children, helping them become healthier, more empowered and vibrant versions of themselves.

The results are remarkable: 97 percent of club teens expect to graduate high school; consistently higher grades among low-income club members who attend regularly; over half of club kids exercise for an hour five or more times per week. The list goes on and on.

The club also plays a tremendous role in an effort that I feel strongly about –– providing access to nutritious food for school children in the summer months.

Several years ago, we had an opportunity to test out flexibilities and options like backpack meals, grab-and-go and delivery meals administered by groups like the Boys & Girls Club. It proved incredibly effective, and I am very pleased we have now made non-congregate feeding a permanent option based on that success.

It is truly a pleasure to be able to work alongside groups like the Boys & Girls Club to achieve this tangible outcome that is helping improve the lives of kids and families in Arkansas and around the country.

I was honored to be named a Boys & Girls Club of America 2025 Champion for Youth for my support of the organization and legislative efforts to address food insecurity. This month’s ceremony on Capitol Hill was a special, full circle moment that captured what a privilege it is be an alumnus in the position to help it get even stronger and better. 

From personal experience, I know it is truly making a difference in the lives of new generations and am proud to continue championing its work. Future kids in The Natural State and beyond deserve the benefits and blessings my siblings and I gained in those fun but foundational years.