Spreading Joy, Connection, and Care Through Adopt-A-Club

During the holiday season Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Baltimore experienced the true spirit of giving through our Adopt-A-Club program. Corporate and community partners from across Maryland came together not only to fulfill wish lists, but to support the social and emotional wellness of nearly 1,000 kids through meaningful acts of service this holiday season.

Across our Clubs, partners created festive, joy-filled celebrations where youth could laugh, create, share meals, and build connections with caring adults. From holiday crafts and music to games and thoughtful gifts, each experience reinforced a simple but powerful message: our kids are valued, supported, and deeply cared for.

“The most memorable moment for me was seeing our members' reactions as they received gifts and shared laughter with volunteers,” shared Abina Rogers, Area Director for Baltimore City. “It reminded me that Adopt-A-Club is about more than a holiday party, it’s about showing our kids that they are valued, supported, and deeply cared for.”

This year, some incredible partners adopted all 10 Clubs across Baltimore City, Howard County and the Eastern Shore, including RSM, Access Holdings, Price Modern, MillerKnoll, the Cambridge Rotary Club, the City of Salisbury, DAP Global, Inc., Morgan State and SC&H. More than volunteering, partners fully immersed themselves in the experience by sharing hot chocolate at festive drink bars, taking photos together at holiday photo booths, and joining kids in play. From giant UNO games with teens to oversized Jenga with younger members, these moments of shared joy helped create a sense of belonging that extended far beyond the day’s activities.

“I liked the volunteers who brought us presents, and I had a lot of fun playing games with them,” shared Lucas W., age 7, a Club member. “It was really fun.”

For board members who attended, the impact was just as meaningful.

“The Adopt-A-Club celebration was full of incredible moments, but what stayed with me most was the joy on the kids’ faces when they opened their presents together. It was pure magic,” shared Larry Tong, BGCMB Board Member. “From cheering them on at the bowling station to seeing each child receive a gift from Santa, the day was a powerful reminder of how much these shared experiences support our kids and strengthen the community.”

For those who attended, the impact of Adopt-A-Club is clear: the holiday parties are about presence, connection, and joy. Especially during the holidays, these moments of care and celebration help create safe, supportive environments where kids can feel a sense of belonging and thrive.

We are deeply grateful to every partner who helped make this season brighter. Your generosity, creativity, and commitment ensured that our Clubs were filled with comfort, laughter, and holiday magic—memories our kids will carry with them long after the season ends.