Well-deserved — Former longtime Boys & Girls Club of San Benito Board Member and volunteer Norma Boland is being honored by the club as its inaugural Champion of Youth honoree. She’s seen here with club members. (Boys & Girls Club of San Benito/Liz Chavez)
By TRINA “INDI” JOHNSON
Special to the NEWS
A new tradition is taking root in the Resaca City as the Boys & Girls Club of San Benito launches its first-ever Roots & Boots Gala this fall, introducing a signature honor — the Champion of Youth award — and naming longtime advocate Norma Boland as its inaugural recipient.
“Receiving the ‘Champion of Youth’ award means the world to me,” Boland said. “I am deeply humbled and honored to receive this award, especially knowing that there are so many deserving individuals in our community who are making a positive impact on the lives of our youth. I have always been committed to supporting and empowering the youth in our community.”
The award, according to Club CEO and President Liz Chavez, was created as part of a broader mission to recognize and uplift the people who often work quietly but consistently to support local children.
“As we planned our gala, we wanted to do more than just celebrate. We wanted to honor the people who make our mission possible,” Chavez said. “Champion of Youth isn’t just a title; it represents the heart of what we do.”
Boland’s history with the Club began in the early 1980s. “My journey with the Boys & Girls Club began in the early 1980s when I was recruited by the late Executive Director, Rogelio Roy Garza, to join the board,” she said. “Through the years, the Club faced significant challenges, including limited income and resources. Despite these obstacles, our board members were united and committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment for our members.”
Though no longer serving on the board, Boland has remained closely tied to the organization’s mission. “The Club will always have a special place in my heart, and I’m honored to continue supporting the mission to inspire young minds to reach their full potential,” she said.
The idea for the Roots & Boots Gala was developed as a way to both raise support and publicly thank those who’ve helped carry the Club’s work forward. “This is the 1st year the award has been given and we are eager to make it an annual tradition recognizing the true heroes in our community,” Chavez said.
Boland, Chavez explained, was a clear choice. “Her deep roots with the club, combined with her continued support and advocacy, made her the natural choice for this inaugural recognition,” she said. “Norma Boland’s dedication to not only our youth but to our community embodies what a true champion is.”
That dedication, Boland said, has been personal and enduring. “One of the most rewarding aspects had to be watching my son and his friends grow and thrive as Club members,” she said. “Seeing them develop into successful young adults has been truly fulfilling.” She also recalled fundraising efforts that brought the community together. “I also remember the annual golf tournament, which was always a labor of love,” she said. “I would be remiss if I did not mention running the concession stand at Skateland Bingo… to make ends meet at the Club.”
The recognition comes as the Club faces significant infrastructure needs. “Major renovations are needed at the Club,” Boland said, pointing to a kitchen remodel, gym air conditioning, steel beam repairs, and updates to the game room. “You have an opportunity to be a part of these much-needed improvements,” she said. “Every contribution, large or small, is greatly appreciated and can lead to a beautiful Club the kids can be proud of and call their own.”
Chavez emphasized that financial support isn’t the only way to help. “You can volunteer your time as a mentor, donate to support our various programs, or sponsor events like our Roots and Boots Gala,” she said. “By recognizing these champions, we’re not only honoring their impact, we’re also inspiring others to step up, get involved, and see themselves as part of our mission.”
The Gala will be held on September 18 at the L&H Event Center in San Benito, where Boland will be formally honored.
For Boland, the impact of the Club — and the children it serves — remains her central motivation. “I see the potential and promise that every young person possesses,” she said. “The Boys & Girls Club offers kids a chance to develop essential life skills, build confidence, and make lasting friendships. You can help enrich the lives of our youth, our future leaders.”
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