This episode of Nonprofit Report features the Boys and Girls Clubs of Dane County’s leadership team discussing the impact and expansion of the organization in serving children, youth and families through its various programs.
Interview by: Mark Oppenheim
Guests:
- Michael Johnson, President & CEO
- Taylor Jackson, Chief Educational & People Officer
- Alan Branch, Sr., VP of Workforce Development
Key Points
- Boys and Girls Clubs have served youth for over 125 years; in Dane County, the organization has grown into one of the fastest-growing clubs in the nation.
- Programs span preschool through college, including afterschool care, workforce training, and exposure to trades beginning as early as eighth grade.
- Education services support over 1,500 youth annually with college readiness, internships, and leadership development.
- Workforce initiatives address a national shortage in skilled trades by connecting young people early to apprenticeships and career pathways.
- Transportation, meals, and stipends are provided to remove barriers to participation, supported by a $25 million capital campaign.
- Volunteers and donors play a critical role, with 12,000 volunteers and major supporters contributing time, funding, and leadership.
- Recognized nationally for financial literacy programs, the club also partners with banks and credit unions to teach practical money management.
- Advocacy is central to its mission, highlighted by leading the effort to install a statue of Vel Phillips, the first African American woman honored with a singular statue at the Wisconsin State Capitol.
Other Points on Boys and Girls Clubs of Dane County:
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Dane County has transformed its mission to serve not just youth but entire families, believing that strong families build stronger communities. This holistic approach extends beyond local work; the organization mobilizes to support communities in crisis nationwide, from natural disasters to social justice causes.
Transportation and access are central to participation. By providing busing, food, and stipends, the club ensures youth can benefit fully from its programs. Education and workforce training emphasize not only academic success but also soft skills like communication, teamwork, and reliability—skills critical for success in trades and beyond.
Volunteers and donors experience personal transformation alongside the youth they serve, demonstrating the club’s impact on the entire community. Many alumni return as leaders, professionals, and board members, reinforcing the cycle of investment and return.
