Often times, Boys & Girls Clubs are seen as a second home to our youth. This was something Nicolas Harding, a long-time Club member at our Yerington Site, experienced. Harding started attending the Club at a very young age. As a teen, Harding was involved in the Leaders in Training and Keystone programs. The Club’s programs, Harding said, helped him after graduating high school.
“The Club has been a huge influence on my life and has led me to where I am today,” Harding said.
Harding, like many of our members, grew up in a non-traditional home, which isn’t always easy on kids and teens.
“The staff were always there for me,” Harding said. “Dona was always there for me, Travis had my back and stood with me with my hardships in life and Mr. Mac has been like a brother to me.”
Harding is currently a senior at Concordia University in Nebraska where he is working toward his bachelor’s degree in music education as well as a minor in urban ministries. Harding said that minor will allow him to work with youth around the area as a mentor. After performing his senior recital and doing his student teaching, Harding plans on graduating May 2016.
“All that I learned from the Club I have used in college,” Harding said, listing things such as work ethic, social skills and time management. Harding was also the local recipient of the Youth of the Year award in 2009.
Whenever he comes back to Yerington for a visit, Harding makes sure to stop by the Club and say hi and catch up on what’s been going on.
“I always feel welcome, like we’re family.”