Boys and Girls Club of Indianapolis celebrates youth in the area

Indianapolis, Indiana – The Blue Door Gala is held annually by the Boys & Girls Club of Indianapolis. The main purpose of the event is to commemorate youngsters and to help raise finances.

“I think it’s so important we take time and pause celebrating our kids. We have a blast planning this event, getting dressed up, and throwing on our tennis shoes. We want to make sure our kids know that they are loved and celebrated,” said Maggie Lewis, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Indianapolis.

A senior at Lawrence North High School is Arael Stigler. She has almost eight years of experience with the Boys & Girls Club. She is among the Blue Door Gala awardees.

“It’s nice to be recognized, that people see me in a positive light. My good deeds aren’t going to waste, that someone actually sees that I’m doing the right thing,” said Stigler.

“I think what happens behind our blue doors is so special. The bonding and the mentoring that is happening between our team members and our young people are so special, and I think it’s so important that every kid knows there is someone that cares about them and watching everything that they’re doing,” said Lewis.

Stigler wants to study nursing in college. She says she’s not sure she could have done that if it weren’t for the Boys and Girls Club.

“Coming from a rough neighborhood, it was great to have a place to go to and meet new people, see new people, meet new friends. It’s helped me my entire life,” said Stigler.

Lewis adds that it’s wonderful to witness the support from the community.

“I’m so humbled by the support we get each year for this event. we’re expecting 400 people to be here to support our babies,” said Lewis.

For any young person who has considered joining a Boys and Girls Club, Arael has a message.

“There’s so many activities and opportunities you can get through the Boys and Girls Club. I’ve met so many people and been to so many things just based on where I’ve been with the Boys and Girls Club. It’s amazing. Please go,” said Stigler.