From Club Kid to Center Director:

Drew's Story

Drew King’s story with Boys & Girls Club began as a sixth grader in Gary, Indiana. Growing up in a community marked by poverty, violence, and limited opportunity, Drew found something powerful at his local Club: safety, support, and hope.

“The Club was my safe place,” Drew says. “It was a different world compared to what life was like outside….Without the Club, I wouldn’t be the man I am today.”

Now, Drew is coming full circle—recently promoted to serve as Center Director for our brand-new Teen Center, a space designed specifically to meet the needs of middle and high school students in Springfield. The facility, set to open on August 19, will more than double our reach, empowering 1,000 teens per year with resources, support, and space to thrive.

The Teen Center is more than just a building—it’s a bold promise to our young people. With specialized spaces including an art studio, innovation lab, e-sports lounge, barbershop, café and teaching kitchen, dance and fitness studio, gymnasium, mental and physical health clinics, and chill zones designed for connection and creativity, it’s a hub where teens can explore who they are and who they want to become.

There’s no one better suited to lead this transformative space than Drew.

As a Club teen, Drew was twice named Youth of the Year and served as Keystone Club president for four years, experiences that helped him develop his voice and leadership. “Those programs gave me confidence and helped me discover who I was meant to be,” he reflects.

After college, Drew continued his Club journey as a staff member, managing elementary programs at Boys & Girls Club in Champaign, Illinois, before eventually joining the Springfield team as a Unit Director at the Sertoma Unit. His deep connection to the mission—and the mentorship he once received—fuels his work today.

“I want to be that consistent, caring adult for the next generation,” Drew says. “I had mentors and my parents who believed in me before I believed in myself. I want to give that same gift to our teens.”

Beyond the Club, Drew enjoys spending time with his Doberman, Azula Kiyoshi, exploring nature, cultivating plants, and diving into his lifelong interest in dinosaurs. His curiosity and compassion bring a unique energy to everything he does.

As he steps into this new role, Drew’s vision is clear: to build a community where every teen feels seen, supported, and safe.

Learn More about the Risdal Family Teen Center for Great Futures.