April 2000

Nationally recognized students prepare for life after high school

High school seniors Constance Patton and Shannel Quarles are preparing to take that big step into the "real world." And they will be ready to take that step partly due to the influence and guidance of the Boys and Girls Clubs of South Central Kansas, a United Way-funded agency.

Patton, who attends Derby High School and has been a member of the Boys and Girls Club since she was 8-years-old, was named 1999 Kansas Youth of the Year by the Boys and Girls Club of America. As a result, she won a $25,000 scholarship through Oprah Winfrey’s Angel Network.

Quarles, who attends Wichita South High School and a Boys and Girls Club member since her freshman year, won the same award in 1998.

Leaders of tomorrow

Both girls attribute much of their success to the Boys and Girls Club.

"I have learned a lot through the Club. They have given me guidance in the right direction," said Quarles.

Patton agrees. "Here I was taught to take responsibility for my actions and how to make the right decisions."

"These girls deserve – or maybe I should say they have worked hard – to get where they are. And they are deserving of all of the support and resources available to ensure their road to success," said Brenda McDonald, director of development at the Boys and Girls Clubs.

Patton and Quarles are not only members of the Club, but are part of the administrative staff, as well. They also serve on the Boys and Girls Keystone Club. The Keystone Club is the youth government body of Boys and Girls Club.

"Their leadership skills are a testament to their continuous growth in commitment, being involved, and accepting responsibilities," said McDonald. "I will always be proud to say I knew them when . . ."

College bound

Both have set goals and are determined to reach them.

Quarles, who is deciding between Drake University or Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, plans on becoming an attorney.

"I want to go into public speaking and share the knowledge I have gained."

According to Patton choosing where to go to school is a challenge. She has narrowed her choice of a college to either Oklahoma State University, the University of Kansas or Howard University.

"I want to do a lot of stuff but one of my big goals is to one day be the president of the national organization for Boys and Girls Clubs," said Patton, who plans on majoring in Child Psychology.

Life away from home

Although they are excited about starting a new chapter in their lives, they are a little apprehensive about going away to school.

"It will be a little scary. Boys and Girls Club is our home away from home. The staff and kids all know us," said Quarles.

However, the girls know what a tremendous support system they have in the Boys and Girls Club.

"We have so many people behind us and have been given a wonderful opportunity. It’s great to have everyone pulling for us, " said Patton.

Call United Way of the Plains at 267-1321 to find out more about how your money is helping our community.