221 - Creating Third Places for Children in a Digital Age with Jim Bunnell, Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield

Mark and Jim Bunnell, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Marshfield, discuss the vital role that Boys and Girls Clubs play in providing safe spaces for youth, the impact of social media on children's social skills, and the importance of community support in fostering youth development. Jim emphasizes the need for engaging programs that help children develop character, build relationships, and learn to give back to their communities. Jim shares insights on the challenges faced by today's youth and the innovative approaches being taken to address these issues. Learn more and volunteer through their website or call 781-834-2582! Takeaways The Boys and Girls Club serves as a vital third place for youth. Social media can be a significant distraction for kids. Eliminating cell phone use has led to better engagement among children. Community support is crucial for the club's operations. Financial assistance is available for families in need. The club provides a safe environment during critical after-school hours. Mentorship programs help older kids give back to the community. Long-term relationships formed at the club can have lasting impacts. The club is continuously evolving to meet the needs of the community. Chapters 00:00 The Role of Boys and Girls Clubs in Youth Development 10:14 Navigating Social Media and Its Impact on Youth 20:07 Creating Safe Spaces for Kids 30:06 Community Engagement and Support 39:47 The Future of Youth Programs and Initiatives Affiliate Links: Unleashing the Power of Respect: The I-M Approach by Joseph Shrand, MD This episode is brought to you in part by SecuriTitle, a fractional paralegal service assisting with all things real estate in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.