Catch up on the latest from our Club—hear a message from Teresa, celebrate Curtis and our Teen Center, and get to know Board Chair Dr. Lauren Wiley. Plus, take a look at Spring Break highlights, see how Family Dinners are making an impact, and don’t miss what’s coming up next.

Letter from Our Leadership - Teresa Medina

I first walked through those blue doors at 14, looking for a place to do homework and use a computer, but I never imagined how much it would change the trajectory of my life.
As a first-generation college student, I didn’t always have guidance navigating school and financial aid, but the Club stepped in, gave me support, leadership opportunities, and a sense of belonging. The environment sparked my passion for service.
In my 20 years with the Club, I’ve grown from Site Coordinator to Program Manager to my current role as Director of Operations. Even when I explored opportunities elsewhere, I would always come back; because this is my home.

I am a direct product of what the Boys & Girls Club can do for a young person. I get to see that same impact every day through the people we serve and the team I am proud to lead. It’s meaningful, ever-changing work, and I can confidently say I found my dream job.

As you read on, I invite you to see the impact for yourself and discover how you too can build a greater future.

Meet the Mentor: Curtis Weathers

In just one year, Teen Coordinator and Design Specialist Curtis Weathers has transformed the Teen Center into a lively hub of creativity and innovation.

Curtis’ journey with the Boys & Girls Club began long before he became a mentor. Growing up as a Club Kid in Wisconsin, he remembers the warm environment that embraced and encouraged him; the same atmosphere that continues to inspire his work today.

“When I started at the Club, it didn’t feel like work at all,” Curtis said. “It feels good to work for an organization where my natural state of being is a perfect fit.”

Curtis continued his education at Mt. San Jacinto College and South Dakota State University, where he studied graphic design. But he would soon be faced with a major challenge: many of his peers already had experience with design software, while Curtis had to work extra hard just to catch up.

“Most of my contemporaries had the opportunity to study or gain experience with the software, but I didn't,” he said.

That experience shaped his approach to teen programming.

Today, Curtis uses his skills to give back and create opportunities for teens who, like him, may not have had early access to technology or creative tools.

“It feels good to see their development and give them opportunities I didn’t have,” Curtis said. “It makes me hopeful. Introducing these tools early can make all the difference.”

Under the leadership of Program Manager Montoya Dunn, Curtis has helped foster a space where teens can connect and build essential 21st-century skills. Through an exciting partnership with Garner Holt Productions, Yuhaaviatam, and the Overdeck Foundation, the Club is introducing a one-of-a-kind educational technology experience inspired by world-class innovators.

Teens now have access to modern tools, hands-on learning, and pathways into future careers, right at the Clubhouse.

This vision was shaped by the teens themselves. After listening to their need for more engaging, real-world opportunities, the Boys & Girls Club responded by creating a space centered on connection and career exploration.

For Curtis, it all comes back to helping young people believe in what’s possible.

He hopes every teen who walks into the Center understands that with time, and support, they can achieve anything—whether that’s becoming a graphic designer, exploring technology, or pursuing Esports.

This Teen Center is a commitment to the future and thanks to mentors like Curtis, anything is possible.

Board Member Spotlight: Dr. Lauren Wiley

Dr. Lauren Wiley has proudly served on the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Redlands–Riverside Board of Directors for the past four years, bringing expertise and a deep commitment to youth success.

In her role as Coordinator for Mental Health Services at Yucaipa–Calimesa Joint Unified School District, Dr. Wiley works alongside a team of counselors, therapists, and psychologists to ensure students feel safe and supported. Her daily work reflects the same values she brings to the Club.

Dr. Wiley was first introduced to the Boys & Girls Club through her peer, Bud Opkyke, a longtime school psychologist and previous board member whose passion for the organization was palpable. Inspired by his enthusiasm and coupled with her own longing to give back and connect with local youth, she quickly knew the Club was the right place.

More recently, Dr. Wiley has found a special passion in supporting the development of the Club’s Teen Center.

“Engaging teens can be difficult, but the diligence and heart the Club puts into reaching that age group is impressive,” she said.

It all clicked for her at the Club’s first post-COVID Gala. From feeling the energy and seeing how much the Club means to the community made her connection to the mission that much more personal.

“The impact of BGCGRR operations transcends what the eye can see,” she says. “It is life-changing work for our youth and their families, and I am simply honored to be a small piece of that puzzle.”

We are grateful for Dr. Wiley’s leadership, compassion, and dedication to our mission.