We are reaching out with urgent and important news that affects not only our organization, but youth and families across Union County and the entire nation.

Last week, the White House released its proposed federal budget for Fiscal Year 2026 — and it includes the complete elimination of funding for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) program.

This program supports after-school and summer learning for more than 220,000 youth nationwide, including over 4,500 youth that we serve in Union County. Unfortunately, this funding cut could be devastating — stripping away critical support like academic help, mentoring, and safe spaces for our youth to grow and thrive.

Even if your local Boys & Girls Club does not directly receive this funding, the impact will ripple throughout our organization’s entire network, affecting the services and stability of programs nationwide — including ours.

We have faced similar threats before, and we have learned this: what makes the difference is people like you stepping up and speaking out.

Here’s how you can help today:

• Sign the national letter urging Congress to protect 21st CCLC funding: https://bgca.quorum.us/campaign/115081/
• Share this email with your network: community partners, families, and friends
• Use your voice on social media or in conversation — let lawmakers know that the youth matter. Their safe spaces matter. Union County matters.

Below are the numbers of our three federal legislatures. We strongly encourage you to contact them expressing your concern with the potential elimination of the 21st Century funding.

• Senator Cotton – (202) 224-2353
• Senator Boozman – (202) 224-4843
• Congressman Westerman –  (202) 225-3772

An urgent response to this situation is imperative because Congress is set to debate this budget in July. Now is the time for our community to come together and protect the future of our youth. Union County needs Club kids, and Club kids need you!

Thank you for standing with us.

At just 18 years old, Rhayna Buggs has already made a lasting impact in her community. A senior at El Dorado High School in El Dorado, Arkansas, she has spent the last decade as a dedicated member of the Boys & Girls Club, a place she now considers her second home.

Rhayna first joined the Club at the age of eight, drawn in by her friends who were eager to experience the fun and camaraderie it offered. Little did she know that it would become a cornerstone in her life, shaping her character, leadership skills, and aspirations.

Her commitment to the Club and her community has not gone unnoticed. Recently named Youth of the Year, she sees this recognition as a testament to her hard work and dedication. “It represents recognition of my efforts, my dedication to the community, and an opportunity to inspire others to pursue their dreams and make a difference,” she said.

Her leadership journey at the Club began as a junior staff member, where she developed essential skills in teamwork and responsibility. As she grew older, she transitioned into a Youth Development Professional, further honing her ability to guide and mentor younger members.

Beyond leadership roles, Rhayna has faced and overcome significant challenges. When she underwent spinal fusion surgery, the Club members and staff rallied around her, showering her with get-well cards and even organizing a mini-parade in her honor during isolation of COVID-19. “It really made me feel like they cared and appreciated me. It showed me the power of community and support during tough times,” she recalled.

Another major hardship she faced was the loss of her father. Through it all, the Club provided unwavering support, offering her a safe space to process grief and find strength in the friendships and mentorships she had built there.

Rhayna’s experiences at the Club have played a crucial role in shaping her goals. Having learned the value of empathy and resilience, she plans to attend the University of Central Arkansas to pursue a degree in nursing. Specifically, she aspires to become a Labor and Delivery Nurse, eager to support families during one of the most significant moments of their lives.

“The Club has helped me build essential skills like leadership and communication, which are super important in nursing. It set a solid foundation for my career ahead,” she expressed.

As she prepares for this next chapter, she offers words of encouragement to younger Club members: “Always believe in yourself and never hesitate to chase your dreams. Stay involved, ask questions, and learn from every experience. And never be afraid to seek help from mentors— they can truly make a difference.”

As Youth of the Year, Rhayna hopes to share a message of resilience and self-belief. “I want to inspire others to pursue their dreams, embrace challenges, and know that they have the power to make a difference in their communities.”

Reflecting on her journey, Rhayna emphasizes the immense impact of the Boys & Girls Club on her life. “It’s not just a place to hang out; it’s a community that really supports you. The family I’ve made and the skills I’ve learned have had a huge impact on me. Everyone deserves to have a place like this in their lives.”

With her unwavering dedication, leadership, and resilience, Rhayna is not only a role model for younger Club members but also a testament to the power of community and determination, and with that, we are honored and elated to recognize her as our 2025 Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County Youth of the Year.

Our Boys & Girls Club wants to develop a way for the community to know what is happening in and around the Club. Through this new “Stay in the Loop” email campaign, community members will receive emails periodically from our Club keeping them up-to-date on Club member highlights, Club events, and important dates. It takes a community, and we want to ensure that ours is in-the-loop! If you would like to Stay in the Loop, click here!

Effective January 1, 2025, we are now The Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County – Arkansas to better reflect our inclusive commitment to serving all youth in our surrounding communities, inclusive of El Dorado, Smackover-Norphlet, and Strong-Huttig. While the name may be new, our mission remains unchanged: to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens.

Teagan, a 13-year-old student at Barton Jr. High, has been a proud member of the Boys & Girls Club of El Dorado for eight years. Her journey with the Club began when her mother started a new job and needed reliable childcare. Referred by her aunt, Teagan began attending the Club after school and quickly found it to be a positive and enriching environment. Through new friendships, hobbies, and improved mental well-being, Teagan has grown into a more open and confident individual.

The Club has played a significant role in shaping Teagan’s personal growth and leadership skills. As President of the Club’s Blue Krew, she actively contributes ideas for fundraisers, encourages her peers to get involved, and assists Club staff in various capacities in and around the Club. This role has strengthened her confidence and shown her how impactful her dedication can be.

Recently, Teagan was selected to attend the National Day of Advocacy (NDoA) in Washington, D.C. Though nervous about her first flight, her excitement grew as she prepared to meet influential leaders and explore the nation’s capital. Teagan believes her long-term involvement, respect for others, and helpfulness to Club staff set her apart for this opportunity.

At NDoA, Teagan hopes to discuss issues like child hunger and mental health, both of which she feels are crucial for youth today. As she has returned home from Washington D.C., she plans to inspire her Club community by emphasizing the importance of involvement and the opportunities the Club provides.

Teagan credits Club staff members Ms. Neika, Ms. Nesie, and Mr. David for encouraging her growth and inspiring her to become a leader. She encourages other Club members to take on leadership roles and advocate for causes they believe in, emphasizing the personal growth and self-discovery that come with stepping up and making a difference.

The Boys & Girls Club of El Dorado is proud of Teagan and appreciative of the advocacy and leadership she exudes through the Club and the community.