Source: Spring 2015 BGCMD Newsletter
Upon meeting fifteen-year-old Peter for the first time, it is easy to be captivated by his warm smile that stretches from ear to ear. “I always walk around with a smile on my face,” said Peter. “A smile can always brighten a person’s day, make them feel calm and safe and allow them to come out of their comfort zone.” This is exactly why many Boys & Girls Club members look up to Peter as a leader and role model.
Peter was born in Kinshasa Congo, Africa – a land which soon became war-torn forcing his family to seek refuge in Tanzania. In 2006, Peter’s family moved to America. The transition was challenging and Peter was being bullied at school on a daily basis. It was not until he found the Noel Boys & Girls Club that he was able to settle comfortably into his surroundings. In the three short years that Peter has been a Club member, he has quickly embraced the Club members and staff as an extension of his family. “My Club is a place where I can truly be myself. I’ve learned so much about who I am as a leader and the possibilities are endless for me,” said Peter.
From the time the sun rises to the time the sun sets, Peter can be found in school or his Club. When asked if he gets tired of this routine, he was quick to respond, “Think of the people in your life that you love. Do you ever get tired of them? Probably not. Because you love them and everything that they do you find interesting. Well, that is what the Club is for me. I love it. The staff is always doing something new and exciting.” Peter has used his time in the Club to form numerous friendships and build a support system for himself.
With a strong handshake and a big smile on his face, Peter will introduce himself to just about anybody. Peter is a people-person at heart, excelling in a multitude of leadership and mentoring roles around the Club including participating in Peers Against Drunk Drivers and Students Working Against Tobacco. Peter can also often be found helping other students with their homework and is very involved with the community. He finds true joy in making a difference within his community. He has already completed over 300 volunteer hours. He is also participating on a committee for My Brother’s Keeper Youth Summit, a program launched by President Barack Obama to create more opportunities for young men of color. “I want to be on the front line fighting for a better understanding of black culture,” said Peter. “I want to spark the flame for change.”
Peter has transitioned the leadership skills that he has learned in the Club to helping him find success with his feet on the soccer field. Joining the high school junior varsity soccer team as a sophomore, he naturally stepped into the role of being team captain helping lead his team to a winning season. Looking forward, Peter hopes to one day get a scholarship to play soccer in college. “I work harder to better myself,” said Peter. “My motto is never give up. Perseverance and hard work always succeed in the end.”
“One of my greatest accomplishments in life is learning how to read,” said Peter. “Without an education I would never been able to escape into books when I am sad or depressed.” Peter credits the Club for helping maintain his academic success. “Since I met the Noel Boys & Girls Club staff, I have been getting better grades in my classes because the Club provides me with excellent mentors and tutors.” Once Peter graduates from high school, he plans to study business in college with aspirations to one day start a nonprofit to help the local homeless population or to become the Governor of Colorado.