It’s been a long and divisive election season. At both the local and national levels, there has been a barrage of messages about what is wrong in our society. And, there has been a relentless emphasis on our differences, making them seem impossible to bridge. 

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As youth developers, Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco (BGCSF) creates safe, supportive, and positive environments each day. The past few months have been noisy and anxiety producing for everyone -- regardless of where one stands on the political spectrum. 

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During this period of change and uncertainty, we at BGCSF are taking time to reaffirm our commitment to making every child in our program feel heard, valued, loved, and understood. And, we recommit ourselves to maintaining safe, welcoming, and supportive environments where youth can learn, grow, and succeed. 

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Over the weeks and months ahead, I hope that we can all align in agreement that celebrating childhood, protecting our children, encouraging lifelong learning, and opening pathways to success in life for youth, is vitally important to the wellbeing of our communities, our country, and our youth. 

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Rob Connolly 

President 

Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco 

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