Newsletter
The Baxter/Weber family is a big, beautiful, blended family of nine. Amanda and Patrick have seven children together, making up what the Boys & Girls Club staff affectionately call the “Baxter/Weber Clan.” With five girls and two little boys, their home in Elizabethton is always bustling with activity and love. They currently live in an apartment but are hopeful of finding a house that fits their family and budget soon.
“The family loves painting together, hiking, swimming at the lake, going camping, and cooking. With seven children, they dedicate one day to each child to teach them how to cook a meal or a dessert for the whole family,” says Amanda, the mother of the Baxter/Weber children.
Amanda and Patrick heard about the Boys & Girls Club through a recommendation from one of their children’s teachers. With their rapidly growing family, they need an affordable after-school care option that allows both parents to continue working. Amanda explained that until they found the Boys & Girls Club, she had to cut her hours at work significantly.
The Boys & Girls Club has a profound impact on the Baxter/Weber’s children’s development and well-being by providing normalcy and routine to their day. They play with children from their own school and other schools, allowing them to socialize and build friendships in a new community. Each day after school, they know exactly where they are going. They can count on receiving a snack and a hot meal, and they have a safe space to complete their homework.
Through the enrichment they receive—enhanced social interaction, developmental activities, tutoring programs, emotional support, and just plain fun—their confidence flourishes. Each child begins to emerge from their shell, believing in themselves more than ever before.
“I can honestly say that I can see such a difference in our children with regard to their emotional well-being and development after attending the Boys and Girls Club. The supportive environment and dedicated staff have played a crucial role in nurturing their growth,” Amanda said.
Amanda expressed, “the transition to a larger family unit brought emotional challenges, but the Boys & Girls Club helped the children navigate these changes and embrace routine. All of the children are happier and excited for each day since attending.”
“The children’s social skills have improved dramatically. They have made friends and each has a favored staff member. Specific programs and activities at the club have been particularly beneficial. Our daughter Rebecca joined the Boys & Girls Club choir, which she enjoys immensely. She was featured on the news and participated in the Elizabethton Christmas parade,” Amanda said with pride.
For the Baxter/Weber family, the homework room at the club has truly transformed their daily routine. With homework already completed by the time they pick up their children, the family can focus on spending quality time together. This precious time is often spent discussing the day’s events, learning new skills like cooking, and enjoying playful activities at home.
The Boys & Girls Club provides a safe and supportive environment for their youngest son, Hayden, who has autism. Amanda noted, “Hayden’s academic performance improved, due to the exercise and group activities he participates in at the Boys & Girls Club, his physical dexterity has also shown significant improvement.”
Amanda said, “It takes a village.” She adds, “The Boys & Girls Club is our village. The club provides emotional support, and essentials like clothing and hygiene products. They even provided Christmas presents and a beautiful Christmas meal for the family to enjoy.”
“The Boys & Girls Club is more than just a club; it’s a community. Once you’re a part of that community, you feel it. You feel a sense of camaraderie. You know that you can count on each and every person there to look out for the most beautiful gift you’ve ever received, your children,” Amanda expressed with gratitude.
Amanda’s advice to other parents considering enrolling their children in the Boys & Girls Club is simple: “Do it! Promptly! It’s one of the greatest decisions I ever made for my children. I have no regrets other than not doing it sooner.”
The Weber/Baxter Clan has participated in several family-oriented events at the club. One of their most memorable moments was attending a lasagna dinner together. “All of the kids were pulling us in different directions trying to introduce us to their favorite staff members and show us some of their most-liked activities,” said Amanda.
The story of the Baxter/Weber family beautifully illustrates the profound impact the Boys & Girls Club of Elizabethton/Carter County can have on a family. The club provides invaluable support to all families, becoming an essential part of their daily lives. It offers not only after-school care and engaging activities but also fosters a genuine sense of community and belonging. The club’s programs are designed to help children develop essential life skills, and build self-confidence.