“Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen.”

 –Michael Jordan, NBA Hall of Fame basketball superstar

            Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County (BGCSLC) has always been happy to be the blessing of others with services, programs, engagement and more but today they recognize a blessing from within. Will Armstead, CEO of BGCSLC, was recognized as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Southeast Region Executive of the Year.

            Since taking the position of CEO in 2015, Armstead has made significant impacts on BGCSLC and the community. His leadership skills, based on extensive experience and success in the corporate world, have been a great benefit to the organization and thousands of children and families in St. Lucie County.

During Armstead’s role as CEO, Club locations have grown from 14 to 22, and the board of directors increased from 12 to 21 with members who brought resources, connections and diversity to the organization.

Preparing Clubkids for their futures is Armstead’s personal mission. During his tenure, Armstead and his team secured funding for new programs including piano and drumline lessons, First Tee golf education, and tutoring through the FL Dept. of Education 21st Century grant.  In 2019, he partnered with St. Lucie County, Junior Achievement, Children’s Services Council, CareerSource, St. Lucie County Roundtable, and the St. Lucie County Economic Development Council to create a Workforce Readiness program for teens ages 13-18. 80 teens participated in 2019, 155 teens in 2020. Teens learn basic employment soft skills, Social Emotional skills, participate in Junior Achievement, explore careers during field trips to local businesses, serve internships and some land part-time jobs. Armstead also recruited sponsors for programs including vision and hearing screenings; school supplies; holiday gifts; college tours for Club teens; and free dinner served every day to 2,000 Club kids.  He also forged a relationship with Tykes & Teens, a non-profit providing mental health services to children, that trained Boys & Girls Club staff in Trauma Informed Care.

“I’m honored to have been chosen the Southeast Region Executive of the Year. This recognition represents the wonderful people around me, who give me the opportunity to lead, as well as my family who supports my passion to drive transformational change.” said Armstead.https://youtu.be/rBt-Tf8f-c0