Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier (BGCL) proudly hosted the Georgia Boys & Girls Clubs Area Council and Hall of Fame Dinner between September 10 – 12, 2025, at the Legacy Lodge Conference Center in Buford, Georgia. The annual three-day conference allows for Boys & Girls Clubs from around Georgia to come together, network and share resources, strategies and solutions that push the mission forward.
A special part of the conference, the Hall of Fame, serves to honor extraordinary youth, men, and women who have made lasting contributions to the Boys & Girls Club movement across Georgia. Each inductee has played a pivotal role in raising the standards and professionalism of the movement while mentoring and inspiring future generations. Their work continues to lay the foundation that encourages all of us to strive for excellence in helping the children who need it most.
A press release from the Boys and Girls Clubs noted that this year’s celebration also included special recognition of Steve Mickens, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier. Mickens was awarded CEO of the Year, recognizing his outstanding leadership and commitment to youth development.
“It was truly a surprising honor to be recognized in this way,” Mickens said. “The Hall of Fame ensures that the incredible contributions of our members, leaders, and supporters are remembered and celebrated, while also motivating the next generation to continue this vital work.”
In addition, the release stated that Co-Chair of the Resource Development Committee, Abb Hayes , was inducted into the Hall of Fame for his career achievements and leadership with BGCL. Trustee Board Member, Duane Hinshaw, was also inducted into the Hall of Fame for his work across the country with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and BGCL Board Member, Nancy Wesley, received the Beverly Burton New Board Member of the Year award.
Inductees into the Hall of Fame are formally announced during a special dinner at the annual Georgia Area Council Meeting each September. To learn more or be a part of the movement, visit Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier, visit boysgirlsclubs.com.
