MASTERS AND MENTORS: LONG-TIME TEXAS YOUTH ADVOCACY PROFESSIONAL HONORED BY BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF AMERICA

Mary A. Flores recognized for inspirational leadership and mentoring

Mary A. Flores, a Club veteran since the mid-1970’s, was one of four exceptional professionals recognized as a Masters & Mentors recipient from the Academy of Boys & Girls Clubs Professionals during the 102nd Annual Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s (BGCA) National Conference in San Francisco, Calif.  As a testament to the Academy's belief that "enduring lessons are taught by example," Flores was recognized for her inspirational leadership and mentoring of numerous staff within the Boys & Girls Club Movement.    

Throughout her tenure, Flores’ influence in the Movement has been felt at every Club location and program that she has been involved in.  Flores began her Club career with a dual role as a recreation leader for the City of Edinburg, Texas and the local Boys & Girls Club.  She grew the Edinburg Club from one unit to 14, including locations in public housing and schools.  Always believing that working in a Club is not just a job – it is a career, Flores has advised professionals at BGCA’s regional conferences through her membership with the Career Assistance Network.  Because of her guidance, five of her staff members have gone on to become chief professional officers in other organizations, and four have been inducted into the distinguished level of the Academy of Boys & Girls Club Professionals.  All of Flores' efforts, especially her initiatives to bring staff training to small and rural Clubs, have made her a true champion of the Boys & Girls Club Movement.
"Children define this country's future," said Flores.  "We need to provide opportunity for them, be true to the mission, and do what's right for the kids.  If you want to cause change, you have to be part of the solution.”
Masters & Mentors is a distinguished honor bestowed by the Academy’s National Advisory Council.  Flores was nominated by the National Training and Professional Development Advisory Committee based upon one or more of the following: contribution to the Boys & Girls Clubs Movement over a sustained period; successful mentoring of Academy members; demonstrated excellence in the Boys & Girls Clubs profession. 
            “We are proud to recognize Mary with the Masters & Mentors honor,” said Roxanne Spillett, president and CEO, BGCA.  “Each of these exceptional professionals has demonstrated a commitment to professional growth, development and high-level performance.  We are delighted to have Mary among our distinguished group of leaders.”
 

About the Academy of Boys & Girls Clubs Professionals

The Academy of Boys & Girls Clubs Professionals was created to ensure professional recognition for Boys & Girls Club staff that have demonstrated a commitment to fulfilling the strategic goals and objectives that support the mission of the Movement.  The Academy bestows recognition to BGC staff for continued professional growth and development that demonstrates the highest levels of competence and performance within their jobs.  The Academy continues to serve as a key catalyst in raising the bar of professionalism while enhancing the services within Boys & Girls Clubs. To date, more than 1,500 professionals have been accepted into the Academy. Currently, membership in the Academy is open to all full-time Boys & Girls Clubs employees meeting the admission requirements. Individuals who meet all requirements can also apply for a level of recognition in any of the three Professional categories within the Academy: Youth Development, Management, or Executive.