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Giving backGREENVILLE, Feb 25, 2013 (The Herald Banner - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) -- A record amount of more than $75,000 was raised Saturday night for the Boys & Girls Club of Northeast Texas at the Fifth Annual Blue Star Gala staged inside the Fletcher Warren Civic Center. "We are so pleased to see the community making such a large investment in the futures of our youth," Jenny Krueger, chief professional officer of the Boys & Girls Club of Northeast Texas said. "The money raised by the Blue Star Gala will support programs that help our members become more academically successful, build character and citizenship, and live healthier lifestyles." Tony and Samantha Norman were both given the Champion of the Child award for their volunteering efforts for the youth in Hunt County. The Normans gave ample of their time and money in beginning the VEX Robotics Competition, which allows more students to compete in robotics, and for opening their home to more than 300 club members for their Spooktacular event in October of last year. "We have chosen the places that we believe do the most for the kids," Tony said. "We do it for our community and kids. It's a great cause, that's why Samantha and I are so passionate about it." The Boys and Girls Club serves more than 800 children in Hunt County. Joshua Slinkard, program director for the Boys & Girls Club of Northeast Texas, said the gala is held to show their donors what their money is going towards. "It's a good opportunity for our donors to come and see what we do and have a chance to celebrate our accomplishments this year and what we have to look forward to," he said. It costs around $600 to put a child through the club for a school year. According to Krueger, the money raised Saturday will ensure at least 125 of their members will be fully funded through the club next year. ___ (c)2013 The Herald Banner (Greenville, Texas) Visit The Herald Banner (Greenville, Texas) at www.heraldbanner.com Distributed by MCT Information Services |