The Penobscot Nation Boys and Girls Club has an appealing approach to youth development: active engagement.
There is a Native American saying: “Tell me and I’ll forget. Show me and I may not remember. Involve me and I’ll understand.” The Penobscot Nation Boys and Girls Club is all about such involvement, providing children K–12 with after-school programs that are hands-on, meaningful, and fun. The club’s supporters made a compelling case for their cause at its Second Annual Appeal, held this fall at the Isaac Farrar Mansion in Bangor. (It was also a delicious appeal, with wine and appetizers provided by Burby and Bates of Orono.)
Guest speakers for the event included University of Maine hockey coach Tim Whitehead, who, in a humorous speech, pointed out the simple power of keeping kids actively engaged. John Bear Mitchell, assistant director of UMaine’s Wabanaki Center, spoke about the importance of passing on traditional Native American values to the youth in its programs—values like self-mastery and a respect for the earth—at a pivotal time in their lives
. Financial expert Paul Dyer gave a quick, informative primer on charitable giving, and the evening ended with a demonstration of traditional drumming and chanting.
Though the official appeal ended with the final beat of the drum, Carla Fearon, Penobscot Nation Boys and Girls Club director, assured departing guests that donations of both time and dollars will continue to be needed and appreciated.
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