During a recent city council meeting in Buellton, CEO Michael Baker of the United Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County highlighted the organization's significant achievements and the positive impact it has on local youth. Baker announced that the Buellton site has reached a record membership of 178 children, with 61 of them attaining \"gold card\" status. This designation is awarded to children who attend the club for at least 105 days in a calendar year, a benchmark linked to improved high school graduation rates and healthier lifestyles.
Baker expressed gratitude to the city and the parents for their support, emphasizing the importance of the Boys and Girls Club in fostering a nurturing environment for children. He noted that the achievement of 61 gold card recipients is the highest number ever recorded at the Buellton location, underscoring the club's growing influence in the community.
Following Baker's presentation, the council moved on to routine business, including the approval of minutes from a previous meeting and the acceptance of the annual stormwater management program report for the fiscal year 2023-2024. The meeting concluded with a ceremony recognizing the gold card recipients, where the children were called up to receive their accolades and participate in a group photo.