Laguna Beach Boys & Girls Club Thanks Bob Whalen

Story submitted by the Laguna Beach Boys & Girls Club:

Early November was exciting and meaningful for the staff and members of The Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach. Board of Directors member and past president, Bob Whalen, was elected to City Council.

Mr. Whalen has served on the Board of Directors for the Club since 2004. In that time, his leadership as Board President was instrumental in propelling the club forward into many positive places.

He led the Board in accomplishing a balanced Club budget and building its reserve, securing its place in an economically fluctuating community.  As the largest youth development agency in Laguna Beach with 45 employees, he always put the staff and members needs first. He was a strong and sound leader that shared his passion for the community’s youth with everyone he met.

Bob was present at many Club friend and fund raisers. Whether it was a Family Fun Night or TLC’s Pancake Breakfast, you’d see him there talking about the Club and the kids. Another significant contribution was starting the Community Partners Breakfast. Representatives from various community organizations come together to eat breakfast and share their connection with the Club. Partners enjoy sharing and hearing what the Club is doing for the youth of Laguna Beach. His message was always clear: nothing is more sacred or precious than our youth.

Mr. Whalen will not leave the Board for long as he will be one of the founding members of the Clubs new Emeritus Board. The Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach would like to thank him for all he has done for the kids, the club and the community.

Pam Estes, Executive Director for the Boys & Girls Club stated, “It has been an amazing honor to work alongside and learn from Bob. He has been a transformational leader to the Boys & Girls Club. Bob has empowered our Club to strive and achieve new heights in terms of impact, finances, and standing in the community.  What makes his contributions even more meaningful to me is that they are driven by his personal connection to young people and understanding that a caring relationship in child’s life can make all the difference in the world.”