Members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County enjoyed the last days of summer vacation at a back-to-school barbecue bash, hosted by Oxbridge Academy of the Palm Beaches on Aug. 18.
More than 150 children and their families attended the all-day event and were warmly received on campus by the independent high school’s administrative team, faculty and student ambassadors. Highlights of the day included a talent show in the auditorium, swimming races, friendly sports competitions, a barbecue buffet prepared by the school’s talented chefs and music by student DJ Alex Pabon.
In addition to prizes awarded throughout the day, Oxbridge Academy made donations to each participating club based on the number of members in attendance, good sportsmanship and the results of the competitions. The Marjorie S. Fisher Boys & Girls Club in West Palm Beach received $2,000. The Max M. Fisher Boys & Girls Club in Riviera Beach and the Naoma Donnelley Haggin Boys & Girls Club in Delray Beach received $500 each.
“Community partners such as Oxbridge Academy make a difference in the opportunities the Boys & Girls Clubs can provide for our children,” said Mary O’Connor, president and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County. “We are grateful that Oxbridge Academy has invited us into their family and look forward to future collaborations.”
This was not the first time Oxbridge Academy opened its doors to the Boys & Girls Clubs. The school gave 10 members full scholarships to attend its week-long basketball and lacrosse camps and invited clubs to use the swimming pool, indoor basketball court, media center and other campus amenities throughout the summer. The campus will continue to be open to Boys & Girls Club members on Saturdays through the school year.
“Oxbridge Academy is committed to giving students — no matter their background or financial situation — an unmatched opportunity to succeed,” President and CEO Robert C. Parsons said. “We want our campus to be more than a place of learning and exploration for our students, but also a resource for the entire community.”
Above: Oxbridge Academy’s Mark Bodnar with Dayquan Knowles.
