Staff Spotlight: Abina Rogers — Creating a Home Away From Home at Webster Kendrick

Abina Rogers has always known her purpose: to serve youth. From her early days studying early childhood development, English, and communications, she’s had one goal in mind—helping young people thrive. That clarity led her to Boys & Girls Clubs of Metropolitan Baltimore, where she has grown into a leader and advocate for youth voice, wellness, and opportunity. 

Originally from South America, Abina immigrated to the U.S. in seventh grade. “I wish the Club had been something my family knew about when I was younger,” she shares. “It could’ve made a big difference.” That personal experience fuels her commitment to creating safe, welcoming spaces for kids who may not always have one. 

She started nearly three years ago as a Lead Youth Development Coordinator at our Boys & Girls Club at Webster Kendrick and has quickly become known for her compassion, creativity, and consistency. She was quickly promoted to Club Manager and continues to lead with her heart and a deep sense of purpose. “Being in the Club every day is different than working behind the scenes. You're in their world, walking alongside them.” 

Abina believes that building trust with youth starts by listening. “Adults sometimes forget that kids have a voice and can advocate for themselves. It’s important we make space for that.” At our Club, that means welcoming big emotions, encouraging self-expression, and turning ideas into reality. Programs like the Sweetheart Dance and cooking club came directly from conversations with members who wanted to try something new. “When a young person shares an idea, we listen. We figure out how to make it happen.” 

One of her proudest accomplishments has been launching a youth book club, grounded in social-emotional learning. “Sometimes you need to write your feelings down and read them back to yourself,” she explains. “That reflection can help regulate emotions, relieve anxiety, and calm the body and mind.” The program includes journaling, reading, and open discussion—all tools Abina intentionally integrated to support the emotional well-being of her members. 

Her instincts are backed by data. According to BGCMB’s most recent National Youth Outcomes Initiative (NYOI) survey, 88% of Club members report feeling safe at the Club and 87% say they can talk to an adult when they need help. Programs like Abina’s book club are part of that success. They create a consistent, nurturing environment that supports the whole child, especially during moments of stress or uncertainty. 

“At WK, our kids come from all types of households—two-parent families, single-parent homes, lower-income backgrounds—but here, they all feel they belong. The goal is for the Club to feel like a second home.” 

Her leadership has continued to grow with support from her direct supervisor, Nakita Clark. “Our one-on-ones are really helpful. Nakita pushes me, and I’m grateful for her mentorship. She sees what I can accomplish even before I do.” 

Abina credits BGCMB for creating opportunities to advance and discover new strengths. “You can’t manage staff without meeting them where they are. I want to help others get better, so they know what to do and feel confident doing it.” 

Her favorite part of the job? Watching growth happen in real time. 

One of Abina’s favorite stories to share is about a shy and quiet member who found her voice through cooking club. After participating in Junior Youth of the Year, the member began developing strong presentation and leadership skills—and even took her first plane ride. Then there’s another member who began his professional journey with the Club through YouthWorks. Now in his third year, he’s saving for college, dreaming of entrepreneurship, and growing more confident by the day. “He used to be so quiet. The Club gave him space to speak up, to grow, and to lead.” 

Abina says it’s not just the individual stories—it’s the culture. “Even new kids are supported by the ones who’ve been here. They lift each other up.” 

One of the most surprising lessons she’s learned is to embrace unpredictability. “Your day might be planned from start to finish, but kids make things fun. They teach you patience, and they remind you to be present in the moment.” 

As she looks ahead, Abina has a dream to write a children’s book. Until then, she continues to live out her calling every day: creating a Club where kids feel seen, supported, and safe to be themselves.