![As we celebrate our 60th Anniversary this year, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee Area will honor Dr. Al Gilpin as 2024 Champion for Youth on Thursday, August 22, at the Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center (PAC), 201 S. Dargan St., downtown F](https://cdn.firespring.com/images/a5a55de1-a01d-4234-9c89-58b5bfe34b2f.png)
Save the date for the 2024 Champions for Youth Tribute on Thursday, August 22, as Boys & Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee Area honor decades of dedication to improving the lives of our youth.
As a pediatric orthopedic surgeon, this year’s honoree Dr. Al Gilpin, has physically reshaped the bodies of youth. In his personal life, he has tirelessly worked to ensure the well-being and happiness of his young patients, especially those from challenging circumstances. Whether it’s fishing at the lake, providing food to families in need, playing Secret Santa, hosting athletic camps for youth, Dr. Gilpin strives to ensure kids can enjoy “just being a kid,” no matter their circumstances.
“The Pee Dee area has been blessed by many years of support Dr. Gilpin has provided to the youth of the Florence area,” Executive Director Neal Zimmerman said. “The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee Area is proud to honor Dr. Gilpin as their 2024 Champion for Youth.”
Gilpin joins previous Champions For Youth honorees: 2023, Carlos Washington; 2022, Rick & Susan Goings; 2019, William T. “Billy” Jarrell; 2018, Tom Ewart; 2017, Rob Colones; 2016, Buddy Brand; 2015, Dr. Tammy Pawloski; 2014, Florence Boys & Girls Club 50th Anniversary; 2013, East Florence Mission/ Center Day School; 2012, Rev. Dr. William P. Diggs; 2011, Darla Moore; 2010, Ralph R. Porter, Jr.; 2009, Dr. Allie E. Brooks Jr.; 2008, Richard C. Harrington Jr.; 2007, Rep. James E. Clyburn; 2006, Sen. Hugh Leatherman Sr.; 2005, Dr. Luther F. Carter and 2004, Frank Avent.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee Area will honor Dr. Al Gilpin as 2024 Champion for Youth Tribute on Thursday, August 22, at the Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center (PAC), 201 S. Dargan St., downtown Florence. The reception will begin at 6 p.m. followed by the award presentation.
Sponsorships and tickets are available in advance at http://bit.ly/cfy2024.
The Champions for Youth Tribute supports Boys & Girls Club programs that help thousands of children throughout the Pee Dee grow into productive adults. Attendance and financial contributions will help brighten the lives of some of our community’s most promising children. The Boys & Girls Clubs serve youth every day after school and all day on non-school days and during the summer. Clubs provide a safe place where young people can learn and grow while helping them become productive citizens.
For more information, call 843-662-1142 or visit www.bgcpda.org.