Meet Makayla P, a ten-year-old student at Lonnie Jackson Academy and a member of the East Columbus Boys & Girls Club since the age of six. Makayla is an aspiring artist who started drawing in the first grade. Her father, who is an artist and architect, is her role model. Makayla's passion for art has made it her favorite subject in school because she loves the opportunity to create things that people will enjoy. She loves visiting the Columbus Museum to see different collections on display. The various pieces in the museum motivate her to pursue her dreams of becoming an artist in the future.

Makayla is getting ready for the annual BGCCV art competition. She’s going to branch out and dabble in a different medium this year. Makayla is researching ombre pastels and acrylic paints at the library; she would like to incorporate those into her piece. Her plan is to concentrate on the focal point of the piece to draw people in and have that transcend through the rest of the piece naturally. She also enjoys drawing anime and has plans to create a comic book in the future.

Makayla loves the East Columbus Club and she appreciates that the art programs offered there allow her to be creative and pursue her passions. Not only has her confidence increased as an artist as a result of the programs, but her interpersonal skills have also improved. She describes herself as shy; however, the staff encourages her to break out of her shell and collaborate with others. Makayla knows this will prepare her for working with others in the future. She believes that no one can be successful without hitting roadblocks; the roadblocks make her want to do better. Makayla is motivated, invested in her future, and determined to learn as much as she can.

For some of our members, the Club is a place where they can forget about external challenges and focus on the pursuit of their passions. For others, it is a place to learn, play, and grow. However, everyone can agree that the Club is a safe, positive, and supportive environment where youth can reach their full potential. Stories like Makayla’s are made possible by people like you—Thank you for the continued support of our mission!

Our Mission: “To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.”