Every year, the Planters Bank Great Futures Luncheon for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hopkinsville-Christian County grows in heart, vision and attendance — those involved looking to celebrate, those intrigued needing to learn more.
Wednesday afternoon was no different, the halls crawling with eager students showing local leaders what they have learned in the last year.
The most notable change from this summer to last on the proud property’s profile: a fully demolished Walnut Street Stadium.
In its stead will be the growing vision of Executive Director Terrence Davis, his board members and his staff, which combined have a blueprint for a new playground, miniature soccer pitch, basketball courts, an open greenspace, a double gymnasium, game room, STEAM lab, academic center and short-term emergency housing for club families.
Davis said the club is willing to do “whatever it takes to build great futures.”
Furthermore, Davis laid out how much impact last year’s $1 million grant award from the Kentucky General Assembly has provided, including a robotics program, an archery program, the purchase of two new travel vans, and a coming safety renovation to the lobby vestibule.
A ribbon-cutting for the up-and-coming Teen FabLab is scheduled for 4:30 PM September 18.
One of those students who will get a chance to see all of these changes: “Youth of the Year” candidate Genesis Allen.
At 15 years old, she’s already survived an assault, has no relationship with her father, has spent time separated from her siblings, and experienced three years of homelessness.
Close to giving up on life and the pursuits therein, a relocation to Hopkinsville — and connection with the Boys & Girls Clubs — changed her outlook. And her future.
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