![]() ![]() Kynion always wanted a house full of children. Patty Brooks Ms.Genevieve Kynion was named the first executive director for the Girls Club and she remained in this role for twenty-one years. With her help, the Girls Club was established in 1963 to provide a space where girls could build meaningful friendships, gain valuable life skills and learn from caring mentors. Brooks was well-known for her unparalleled strength, style and grace. Because of her early dedication, thousands of kids in the Springfield area still have a “home away from home.” In the early 1960s, Patty Brooks & other founders of the Community Service League (now known as the Junior League), noticed the need for a safe-haven for girls. Lincoln’s caring spirit and passion for mentoring youth helped pave the way for an organization that would make a difference for years to come. Despite the challenges caused by World War II, persistent Sertoma members joined forces with other Boys Club leaders to build a financial base, elect an official Board of Directors, and establish plans for the future. Her undeniable grit and tenacity paid off, when a charter was granted on April 15, 1946. She visited the National Headquarters of the Boys & Girls Club in New York City. Jennie Lincoln Despite early challenges, Lincoln was determined to affiliate the Springfield Boys Club with the national organization. The organization was named “North Side Boys Club.” Ms. Lincoln’s program first catered to 25-30 boys, keeping them off the streets after school. Believing in Lincoln’s project, the Commercial Street business Men’s Club agreed to allow her the use of the basement of the Community Building, free of charge. Jennie Lincoln, wife of Juvenile Judge A.W. Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield opened its doors on November 4, 1938, under the direction of Mrs. In its 84 year history, Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield has had many influential female leaders. What is now a $4.3 million organization, serving thousands of youth in the Springfield-area, began with one woman, a one-room basement and a dream. ![]()
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