The Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier kicked off its "Futures for Kids Campaign" on Tuesday with an event at Habersham Central High School.
After an opening round of dodgeball, attendees heard from prominent local speakers, each sharing motivational stories intended to inspire the younger generation.
UGA football legend Herschel Walker, who is currently engaged in the Republican primary race for a seat in the U.S. Senate, served as the event's keynote speaker.
A media release from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier (BGCL) said Walker spoke about his embattled childhood, which saw him turn to athletics as a means to grow stronger in an effort to combat constant bullying.
Prior to Walker's speech, attendees heard from Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier Alumna Jasmin Gaudlock, a first-generation college graduate from the University of North Georgia, a Gainesville City School Teacher, and a tutor within the BGCL organization.
Gaudlock spoke about the role the organization played in her life, saying, “I am a firm believer in pouring back to the community that poured into you.”
Tuesday's event was presented by Boating Atlanta, with support from several business and community leaders in Habersham County.
