Boys and Girls Club members take academic pledge at mall

Members of the Cape Girardeau Boys and Girls Club recently pledged to talk to an adult about daily homework assignments and do their best in school every day.

The "I Will Achieve" pledge rally was held at Westfield Shoppingtown West Park Mall. Students provided scholastic testimonials and music performances; the club's step team also performed. The program also included motivational speakers.

"We know from research and firsthand experience that many of our club members are apt to accept low standards of academic achievement that lower their aspirations for higher education," said NaTika Rowles, chief professional officer of the Boys and Girls Club of Cape Girardeau. "More importantly, low achievement in school leads to unrealized potential, locking youngsters into limited options for employment and life in general."

Such rallies will take place at Boys and Girls Clubs nationwide this month.

The Cape Girardeau Boys and Girls Club, 232 Broadway, was one of only 250 clubs nationwide to receive a $1,000 grant from J.C. Penney Afterschool to organize and hold one of the motivational academic pledge rallies.

The Boys and Girls Club of Cape Girardeau is open from 3 to 8 p.m. Monday to Friday and provides programs that emphasize education and career enhancement, character and leadership development, health and life skills, the arts, sports, fitness and recreation.

For more information, call NaTika Rowles at 335-7141.