WHAT IS THE BOYS to MEN EVENT?

BOYS to MEN is an annual event where funds to support world-class programming opportunities (like BOYS to MEN) are raised through various avenues including ticket sales, sponsorships, a live auction component and a concluding fund-a-need. This specific event, typically held during the fall, has been a long-standing tradition for the Club since 2012, and is traditionally a sold-out spectacle with nearly 300 people in attendance at the historic Lincoln Street Club – the original home of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bloomington.

During the business-casual event, various community male leaders spearhead a panel-style discussion, which focuses on the importance of positive guidance and mentorship to young men in today’s world. The event also includes a buffet-style dinner with dessert along with fellowship.

Originally billed “Man Up to Make a Difference,” this unique event was initially launched back on May 23, 2012, with guest speakers Steve Zeller and then-Indiana University Director of Athletics, Fred Glass. Since that time, more than 25 others have passionately supported this important fundraiser for the Club. In 2019, the event was re-branded to reflect the updated programmatic messaging of BOYS to MEN’s mentoring program. The Club first initiated BOYS to MEN programming in the Fall of 2019 with carefully chosen teens from the Richland-Bean Blossom Community School Corporation – some of which were already Club members – and influential male mentors from the community, including the Club’s Executive Director, Jeff Baldwin.