2026 FIRST FINANCIAL BANK NONPROFIT EXCELLENCE AWARD RECIPIENT
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County – Arkansas was recognized as the recipient of First Financial Bank’s Nonprofit Excellence Award! We extend our sincerest gratitude to First Financial Bank for this meaningful recognition and for their continued support of organizations working to strengthen our community. It is a privilege to be acknowledged alongside such impactful organizations.
We also want to recognize HOPE Landing, Inc. and Horizons-AR for being named finalists. Each of these organizations plays a vital role in serving our community by providing support, resources, and care to those who need it most. It is inspiring to stand beside groups who are equally committed to making a difference in our community.
This recognition would not be possible without the leadership and guidance of our Board of Directors. Thank you for your continued dedication to the mission and vision of the Club. Most importantly, we want to thank our staff. Your tireless efforts, unwavering dedication, and genuine passion for our Club kids are what make this work possible every single day. You are the heart of our organization, and this award reflects the impact you make in the lives of the youth we serve.
We are proud of this moment, but even more proud of the work that continues ahead. Thank you to everyone who supports our mission and believes in the potential of our Club kids.
“Being named Youth of the Year is not only an honor, but it’s a reflection of the support, guidance, and inspiration I’ve received from others. This award is not just for me, it’s for every young person working hard to make a difference, big or small.”
–Jeanaisa Richmond, Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County – Arkansas 2026 Youth of the Year
ABOUT JEANASIA RICHMOND
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County – Arkansas is proud to recognize Jeanasia Richmond as the 2026 Youth of the Year, honoring her leadership, perseverance, and commitment to making a positive impact on those around her. A senior at El Dorado High School, Jeanasia’s journey through the Boys & Girls Club reflects years of personal growth, dedication, and a desire to uplift others.
Jeanasia has been a member of the Boys & Girls Club since kindergarten in 2014, and from the very beginning, the Club provided a place where she could connect with others and find encouragement. As an only child growing up in El Dorado, Arkansas, the Club gave her opportunities to build friendships and develop a sense of belonging. It also offered academic support through tutoring and activities that helped her grow both socially and educationally.
Over the years, the Club has become much more than just a place to spend time after school. For Jeanasia, it has been a space filled with opportunities, fun experiences, and meaningful relationships. She describes the Club as a place she would happily be every day because of the welcoming environment and the chance to be involved in something positive. Just as important to her is the opportunity to give back. As she has grown older, Jeanasia has taken pride in mentoring younger members and serving as someone they can look up to.
One of the most impactful moments of her journey came when she was first given the opportunity to step into a leadership role at the Club. At the time, she admits she felt nervous and unsure of herself. However, the encouragement and belief shown by the Club staff helped her push past that uncertainty. Leading that activity helped her realize that her voice and ideas had value. That experience boosted her confidence and encouraged her to continue stepping outside of her comfort zone and embracing new challenges.
As Youth of the Year, Jeanasia hopes to encourage younger Club members to believe in themselves and never be afraid to try new things. She reminds them that mistakes are part of the learning process and that perseverance and kindness can take them far. Her message is simple but powerful: stay focused on your goals, surround yourself with people who support you, and never give up on your dreams.
Jeanasia Richmond’s story reflects the very heart of the Boys & Girls Club mission. Through years of encouragement, mentorship, and opportunity, she has grown into a confident leader who inspires others. As the 2026 Youth of the Year, she represents the impact the Club can have on young people and the bright future that awaits those who are willing to work hard and believe in themselves.
MAKE SURE CONTACT INFORMATION IS UP-TO-DATE
To ensure that we can reach you quickly and keep you updated on important information, please make sure your contact details are current with our Boys & Girls Clubs. If you need to make updates to your information, please contact the Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County – Arkansas at (870) 863-8753 or email us at membership@eldoradokids.org.
USDA SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County – Arkansas announce sponsorship of the USDA Summer Food Service Program in El Dorado and Smackover-Norphlet. Free meals will be made available to all children and will be provided without regard to age, sex, race, color, disability, or national origin. Meal services will run at the El Dorado and Smackover-Norphlet Clubs Monday through Friday from June 3 through July 31.
Our program is a safe environment for members both after school and during the summer.
Our program unlocks opportunities for our members to grow, learn, and engage in order to develop positive skills and confidence.
Our program served over 28,000 meals to our Club members in 2023.
of BGCA members said they volunteered in their community, Club, school, or neighborhood at least once in the past year.
of BGCA teens expect to graduate from high school.
of BGCA teens submitted an application to a post-secondary institution.
