An Update from Russell Triolo, CEO
CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County is proud to celebrate Black History Month by honoring the outstanding achievements of black people. This month we recognize those individuals who broke barriers and reached new heights. We join the Black community in creating the next generation of history makers by doing whatever it takes to create opportunities for all young people
We recognize people like Denzel Washington, the first African-American to win multiple Academy Awards. Before Denzel Washington became known for his blockbuster movies, he was a kid attending the Boys & Girls Club of Mount Vernon. At the Club, Denzel was mentored by Billy Thomas and learned several life-long lessons. Denzel fervently pursued his love for acting, earning some 60 acting credits. Denzel Washington has received several accolades for his work, including Academy Awards for best supporting actor (Glory) and best actor (Training Day), making Denzel the first African American to win two Academy Awards. “Everything you’ve seen or heard about me began with lessons I learned to live by at the Club.”
Misty Copeland was 13-years-old when she took her first ballet class at San Pedro Boys & Girls Club. Her newfound passion led her to take to ballet quickly and in just four short years, she joined the American Ballet Theatre. Through hard work and dedication, Copeland was promoted as the American Ballet Theatre’s first African American principal dancer.
Throughout the month of February, our Clubs in Union, Elizabeth and Plainfield will be hosting a number of Black History Month activities and commemorations.
Check out our website, www.bgcuc.org, as well as all of our social media outlets for details of specific events and commemorations of Black History Month
Russell Triolo
Chief Executive Officer
