Meet Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware Alumnus, Tyler Clark!

When you ask Tyler Clark about his time with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware, he'll tell you it was always fun and filled with valuable life lessons. Tyler's journey with the organization is a testament to the transformative power of mentorship, community, and dedication.

Tyler began as a teen member at the Seaford Boys & Girls Club. The teen director at the time, Ms. Ty Bolden, left a lasting impact on Tyler. She organized sessions with Dr. Julius Mullin, who taught teens how to handle themselves in various situations, including how to navigate interactions with law enforcement. These lessons were invaluable and underscored the Club’s commitment to preparing its members for real-world challenges.

The Boys & Girls Clubs played a pivotal role in fostering unity among the youth. Tyler recalls a time when there was significant tension between the Seaford and Laurel high schools. Through the Teens Scene initiative, both clubs were brought together for events aimed at bridging the divide. These efforts not only mitigated conflicts but also promoted a sense of community and camaraderie among the members.

Tyler’s growth continued with mentorship from Marcus, another influential figure from the Club. Marcus’s guidance and support helped Tyler navigate the complexities of adolescence and early adulthood. This mentorship was crucial as Tyler stepped into his first role as a Youth Development Professional (YDP), working initially with 8-year-olds and later with 10-year-olds.

Tyler’s dedication and hard work did not go unnoticed. He spent several years at the Seaford Club, overseeing the middle school group before moving on to become the Child Care Director at the Dagsboro Club. Eventually, he returned to Seaford, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the organization.

Reflecting on his journey, Tyler says, "I think this is the perfect mix for being able to interact with the kids, but also craft the program how I would like. Marcus and Jermane trust me to run the program how I would like. I saw how Marcus handled the Child Care Director position, and took from that example " This freedom, coupled with the lessons he learned from his mentors, has allowed Tyler to shape a program that meets the unique needs of the youth he serves.

In a world where job-hopping is common, Tyler’s loyalty to the Boys & Girls Clubs is remarkable. "I’ve never had another job, I’ve always worked here," he says with pride. For Tyler, the Club is more than just a workplace; it’s a family. "This is family. This is a home for me. I’m always here and I give this place my all. When I first came, it already had a family mentality, and from seeing the family feel that Jermane made, I want to continue to foster that."

Tyler Clark’s journey with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware is a powerful example of how mentorship, community, and dedication can transform lives. From a teen member learning life skills to a Child Care Director shaping the next generation, Tyler’s story is a testament to the enduring impact of the Club.