Boys and Girls Country of Houston https://boysandgirlscountry.org A Home For Children Fri, 27 Mar 2026 20:46:52 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 241398601 A Year of Impact at Boys and Girls Country https://boysandgirlscountry.org/a-year-of-impact-at-boys-and-girls-country/ Fri, 27 Mar 2026 17:42:10 +0000 https://boysandgirlscountry.org/?p=4647

There’s more to discover than meets the eye in Boys and Girls Country’s latest IMPACT REPORT. What begins as a snapshot of the past year quickly unfolds into a deeper story—one of resilience, growth and the life-changing work that has long defined the organization’s mission.

At the heart of Boys and Girls Country is a commitment to holistic care—something that has always been central to its model. Each year, children and young adults receive comprehensive support that goes beyond basic needs. From counseling and mental health services to academic support, mentorship and spiritual care, every aspect of the program is designed to help each child heal, grow and succeed.

Key Highlights

3.46 Campus GPA
Academic success grounded in stability and support

600+ Counseling Sessions
Consistent, trauma-informed care for emotional healing

3,500 Hours of Staff Training
Ongoing investment in excellence and expertise

Nearly 90 Youth Served
With residential stays averaging over two years

$7.1M+ in Donations (Unaudited)
75% directed to programs changing lives every day

These results are not isolated—they are the product of a model that has been refined over decades. The College & Career Program, in particular, remains a cornerstone of long-term success, equipping young adults with the tools, guidance and support needed to pursue higher education, careers and independent living with confidence.

Beyond the Numbers

What makes this year especially compelling is how these stories are shared. The experience goes beyond a traditional report. A thoughtfully designed print and PDF version provides a comprehensive overview, while QR codes embedded throughout invite readers to explore deeper layers of content online—bringing programs like education, counseling and training to life through expanded stories and interactive elements.

Explore the Full Experience

Together, these components create a dynamic, hybrid storytelling experience that reflects both the consistency of the mission and the innovation behind it. We invite you to explore the FULL REPORT, engage with the stories behind the numbers and discover how Boys and Girls Country continues to change lives—year after year.

]]> 4647 A Partnership with Purpose https://boysandgirlscountry.org/a-partnership-with-purpose/ Wed, 03 Sep 2025 16:50:26 +0000 https://boysandgirlscountry.org/?p=4383

For nearly thirty years, Memorial Drive Presbyterian Chruch (MDPC) has stood beside us, not only as a generous financial supporter but as a steadfast champion of the Boys and Girls Country mission to provide children with a safe, loving, and faith-filled home.

This summer, their commitment took on a new form when MDPC helped organize a morning of service with the Houston Christian High School football team. As part of their team bonding retreat, 50 student-athletes arrived on our campus, ready to roll up their sleeves and make a difference. From hauling dirt to wielding sledgehammers, their energy and enthusiasm were contagious, and they made a huge impact.

“Our philosophy as a team is to serve,” said Mat, a coach with Houston Christian. “What these guys may see as insignificant is helping you accomplish months of work. Things that seem small can be major blessings to people.”

The students echoed that sentiment. Grayson, a senior, shared, “It was very moving to visit this campus and see all you do to support kids and build healthy relationships. This isn’t just somewhere they go for the day, this is their home. It makes you feel good to be a part of supporting that.”
Julie, MDPC’s Local Outreach Director, reflected on the years of partnership: “We’ve seen firsthand how this care changes the trajectory of young lives. Our hope is that every child touched by Boys and Girls Country experiences stability, encouragement, and the assurance that they are deeply loved by God.”

We are deeply grateful to MDPC and the Houston Christian football team for their willingness to get their hands dirty in support of our mission. Their service reminds us that when a community comes together, whether through prayer, partnership, or a morning of hard work, children thrive. And that’s what we’re all here for.

 

]]> 4383 Changing Lives Through Trust and Giving https://boysandgirlscountry.org/changing-lives-through-trust-and-giving/ Tue, 29 Jul 2025 19:00:23 +0000 https://boysandgirlscountry.org/?p=4346

Since 1996, the Sterling-Turner Foundation of Houston has been a faithful supporter of Boys and Girls Country. When asked what motivated these years of partnership, Mrs. Pam Stilley, Executive Director of the foundation, responded, “that’s easy — we love what y’all are doing!”

Mrs. Stilley shared that organizations often ask for what they think a board wants to hear rather than expressing their true needs. The heart of her board, however, is to trust that a nonprofit knows best how to use those funds for the needs of their people.

It is this trust and generosity in supporting our general operating fund that has blessed Boys and Girls Country for almost 30 years. Out of this fund for example comes our full-time campus minister who lives and works on campus to encourage and pour into the spiritual needs of our children. Much of his work takes place in our beautiful chapel, a peace-filled setting due to the generosity of the Sterling-Turner Foundation.

When the foundation’s namesake, Mrs. Isla Carroll Sterling Turner, learned of a nursing home in Galveston trying to find a new home for their stained glass, she immediately thought of Boys and Girls Country. Her thoughtfulness not only resulted in savings of over a hundred thousand dollars in stained glass but preserved the love and prayers that those windows had witnessed for 50 years and created a space for our children to experience the same for another 50. Out of that chapel has come many summer services, weddings, prayers and hearts turned to Christ.

]]> 4346 Summer at BGC https://boysandgirlscountry.org/summer-at-bgc/ Fri, 20 Jun 2025 17:27:47 +0000 https://boysandgirlscountry.org/?p=4317

Summer might be all about sunshine and play but at Boys and Girls Country it’s also a time for learning and growth. ☀

Our summer program kicked off this month and our kids are already diving into fun hands-on activities that keep their minds active and help prevent the “summer slide.” From science experiments to outdoor games, our kids stay engaged in a relaxed and encouraging environment.

We tailor our learning time to each child’s needs, helping them build confidence and stay on track for the upcoming school year. The best part? Learning feels like fun—not homework.

Whether they’re exploring nature, roaming museums, interacting with our ranch animals or venturing into Texas caves, our kids will discover that growth doesn’t stop when school lets out.

Thanks to our dedicated staff and volunteers summer at Boys and Girls Country is filled with opportunity and a whole lot of smiles. We’re so proud of how hard our kids are working!

Snapshots of Summer

Swimming
Fishing
Racing
Crafting
]]> 4317 Waller Area Nonprofit Cooperative https://boysandgirlscountry.org/waller-area-nonprofit-cooperative/ Tue, 08 Apr 2025 20:50:48 +0000 https://boysandgirlscountry.org/?p=4270

On March 20, Boys and Girls Country had the privilege of hosting the very first meeting of the Waller Area Nonprofit Cooperative!

This new initiative is all about bringing together local organizations that share a passion for serving our community. It was an exciting and inspiring gathering, marking the start of a collaborative effort to make an even bigger impact together.

The meeting gave everyone a chance to talk openly about the needs in our community and explore ways we can work together to better support children, families and individuals in crisis. By sharing resources, successful initiatives and building strong partnerships, we can do so much more than any one organization could on its own.

We were thrilled to welcome an amazing group of nonprofit leaders and community advocates, all eager to collaborate and make a difference. Their insights, ideas, and enthusiasm set a great tone for what’s ahead.

We are incredibly grateful to the organizations that joined us and contributed to this important conversation.

  • Cy-Hope

    Cy-Hope is a non-profit organization that brings needs and solutions together to provide a wide range of programs that instill hope in underserved children.

  • Family Ties

    Family Ties provides free therapy and advocacy services to child and adult victims of sexual assault, domestic or family violence, and other family crisis issues.

  • Mosaics

    Mosaics is a 501c3 non-profit organization that helps members of our community navigate mental health and substance use recovery resources.

  • Shield Bearer

    Shield Bearer Counseling Centers assist people who are struggling with personal, marital and family problems providing affordable and flexible counseling services.

  • United Way

    United Way's Waller County Center provides a convenient, central location for those in the Waller County community to access health and human services.

  • Waller Pregnancy Care Center

    Waller Pregnancy Care Center offers free and confidential services to women facing pregnancy decisions, providing support and resources.

  • WARM

    WARM connects those in need with resource providers through community services like a food pantry, voucher program, emergency financial assistance, program referrals, community donations, thrift store, volunteer opportunities and more.

]]> 4270 Friend of Children Awards https://boysandgirlscountry.org/friend-of-children/ Mon, 17 Mar 2025 16:26:52 +0000 https://boysandgirlscountry.org/?p=4234

Earlier this year we had the privilege of hosting our annual Friend of Children Awards at the beautiful River Oaks Country Club in Houston. This meaningful event brought together our dedicated community of supporters to celebrate the individuals and organizations whose unwavering commitment helps transform the lives of the children at Boys and Girls Country. It was an afternoon of gratitude and inspiration as we honored those who go above and beyond to ensure our kids have the love, stability and opportunities they deserve.

View the gallery below to read more about this year’s incredible honorees and the impact their dedication is making a difference in the lives of our children.
  • Marsh & McLennan | Professional Services Award
  • Daikin | Corporation Award
  • Texas Business Theatre | Business Partner Award
  • HomeAid Houston | Non-Profit Friend Award
  • Grace at the Gathering | Church Award
  • The Carr Family | Family Award
  • Jennifer Baker | Volunteer of the Year Award
  • Helen Viator | Volunteer of the Year Award
  • Melissa Wilson | From the Heart Award
  • JR Sult | Lifetime Friend Award

Awards were presented by Boys & Girls Country CEO, Vince Duran, and Board Chair, Georgene Britz

]]> 4234 A Legacy of Leadership https://boysandgirlscountry.org/a-legacy-of-leadership/ Wed, 05 Feb 2025 17:05:57 +0000 https://boysandgirlscountry.org/?p=4185

Chuck Scianna recently went to be with the Lord, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, generosity and unwavering dedication to others. As a longtime board member, former board chair, donor and mentor, he was a steadfast advocate for the mission of providing a stable, loving home for children from families in crisis.

Chuck Scianna (right) with his daughter Ashley (left) and BGC College & Career students

His leadership and generosity helped shape the organization’s growth, ensuring that every child who walked through its doors had the opportunity to thrive. His presence in the Boys and Girls Country family will be deeply missed, but the impact he made on so many lives will never be forgotten. Through his kindness, wisdom and commitment to helping children build brighter futures, Chuck’s dedication to Boys and Girls Country will leave a lasting mark on countless children.

"Chuck was truly an integral part of the Boys and Girls Country family. I met him in 2018 and am filled with gratitude that our paths crossed serving on the Board of Directors until 2024. He had a unique energy that he brought to the board room and to every BGC event. This was a sign of his strong leadership and reflected his true passion for the children. He was always willing to go the extra mile to make sure the job was done and done well. I will miss Chuck and know that we will all continue to be inspired by him on our journey and as we continue our work at Boys and Girls Country."

Georgene Britz | BGC Board Chair
Chuck Scianna (right) with board chair Georgene Britz

Chuck graciously gave his time and heart to the children of Boys and Girls Country. He shared his wisdom and encouragement with the children and young adults who were blessed by his mentorship. His commitment went far beyond meetings and fundraising—he personally invested in each child’s success, always pushing them to dream bigger and work harder. His belief in the power of education and entrepreneurship opened doors for many, inspiring them to build bright futures.

Chuck Scianna and his wife, Rita Scianna, with a BGC student

"This is a great loss for so many of us who loved Chuck. He was a friend, a mentor and a generous soul with his time and investment. The family of Boys and Girls Country will miss him dearly."

Vince Duran | BGC CEO

The legacy Chuck leaves behind at Boys and Girls Country is one of compassion, service and dedication. His influence will be felt for generations as the children whose lives he touched go on to achieve their dreams, knowing they were supported by someone who truly cared.

]]> 4185 BGC 4th Annual 5K https://boysandgirlscountry.org/bgc-4th-annual-5k/ Fri, 01 Nov 2024 15:53:22 +0000 https://boysandgirlscountry.org/?p=4090

Last month our Boys and Girls Country campus came alive with excitement as children, staff and their families took part in our 4th annual campus-wide 5K. The day was filled with energy and a touch of friendly competition as everyone came together for this fun and healthy tradition. Designed to bring our community closer, the 5K supports physical and mental fitness, resilience and connection. From start to finish, children cheered each other on and houseparents walked alongside their residents, supporting them every step of the way.

Thanks to ABC Home & Commercial Services, each runner received a commemorative shirt, adding an extra layer of unity and pride. Their generous sponsorship allowed every child to have this keepsake and reminded us all of the kindness and support our Boys and Girls Country family receives from our community partners.

2nd Place - Student
3rd Place - Staff

This event wouldn’t have been complete without the help of our fantastic volunteers who dedicated their time to organize the race route, set up water stations and cheer on participants throughout the course. Their enthusiasm gave the children a strong sense of community, making this race a memorable day for everyone involved.

This 5K wasn’t just a race; it was an opportunity to come together, build confidence and celebrate the incredible strength in each child at Boys and Girls Country. Together, we’re making a positive impact and creating joyful experiences our children will carry with them for years to come.
]]> 4090 Church Has Left The Building https://boysandgirlscountry.org/church-has-left-the-building/ Fri, 01 Nov 2024 15:39:52 +0000 https://boysandgirlscountry.org/?p=4071

This past month, Grace Fellowship Church brought joy and excitement to the Boys and Girls Country campus with an afternoon of games, inflatables and refreshing Kona Ice. This special event was part of the church’s “Church Has Left the Building” initiative, which encourages its members to go beyond the traditional church setting and into the community, spreading the love of Christ through meaningful acts of service and kindness.

Grace Fellowship Church chose to make the children of Boys and Girls Country feel celebrated by providing a day full of fun and fellowship. Their heartfelt efforts created memorable moments for both the kids and staff, giving everyone a break from the usual routine to enjoy laughter and connection. The generosity of Grace Fellowship Church reminded the Boys and Girls Country family that they are truly valued by the community around them.

The day left a lasting impact, providing more than just an exciting afternoon—it was a meaningful reminder of the love and support surrounding the children and staff at Boys and Girls Country.
]]> 4071 Waller County Fair | 4-H https://boysandgirlscountry.org/waller-county-fair-4-h/ Thu, 31 Oct 2024 20:06:22 +0000 https://boysandgirlscountry.org/?p=4063

Our children were thrilled to participate in the Waller County Fair again this year as members of the Boys and Girls Country 4-H Club. The fair allowed them to showcase the hard work and dedication they’ve invested in raising and training their animals and it was wonderful to see their efforts recognized!

One of our high school students proudly showed a heifer, building a strong trusting bond with his animal and ultimately earning the title of champion herdsman. Another student presented a goat he had carefully trained, with his diligence shining through in the ring and earning him 3rd place in his overall weight class. Additionally, our group of five talented rabbit exhibitors did a fantastic job showing their rabbits with one outstanding student placing 3rd in showmanship. Each of these kids has demonstrated patience, responsibility and a genuine commitment to their animals, gaining valuable life skills in agriculture, teamwork and personal responsibility.

A heartfelt thank you goes to our buyers at Sorensen Sandy Creek Ranch and Sim-Tex for their incredible support. Your generosity directly impacts the lives of these young exhibitors, allowing them to see the value of their hard work and dedication. Because of supporters like you, our kids can participate in meaningful opportunities like the Waller County Fair, helping them build confidence and develop important skills. Thank you again for investing in their success!

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