Social Seen | Boys and Girls Club Crystal Gala

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Southern Illinois held a Crystal Gala at the Garden Grove Event Center on Sep. 20 to celebrate the organization's 15th anniversary. Tina Carpenter, CEO of Boys and Girls Clubs of Southern Illinois, said the event drew together a diverse group, representing how people from the community can come together to make the world a better place for our kids.

Alumni who grew up in the club were invited to speak about the impact it has had on their lives. John Cherry, the "godfather of the club" and one of its main founders, was honored with two medals from the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. Milton McDaniel was also honored with the John Cherry Heart and Soul award.