Oct. 19 marked the unveiling of the next steps toward the launch of the new Teen Center sponsored and approved by the Boys & Girls Clubs Volusia/Flagler Counties. With many Spring Hill residents and supporters of this initiative in the room, Joe Hearn, president of the Boys & Girls Club, announced that the new center would be named The Club — Althea Ross Chavers “The Beautiful” Teen Center. The building will be located at the same site as the current Boys & Girls Club at 935 S. Adelle Ave.
Chavers is known for her diligence and dedication to the Spring Hill community and its youth, with more than 24 years as site director for the Spring Hill Boys & Girls Club. She often tells her story of living in Spring Hill with her mother and siblings and feeling the love from her community.
Despite the teen-center development being a topic of discussion for the BGCVF board and community, the name had not been made public until this day. In attendance was Jack Tabor, the grandson of the late Ed Lacey, who carried on the legacy of the Lacey family.
THANKFUL — Community advocate Althea Chavers was overcome with emotion when she heard that the new Spring Hill teen center would be named after her.
After many heartfelt remarks and wonderful performances by the club’s kids, Barbara Girtman, Volusia County Council vice chair and chair of the Teen Center campaign fund, kicked off the financial campaign for this project with a $100,000 donation from Nancy and Mike Shayeson. The Shayesons are known for their ongoing support of the club, both financially and physically, over the years.
The opportunity for growth and a facility that could further enhance the lives of children was not a surprise to Chavers. There were few dry eyes in the room once Chavers realized what was happening. For several minutes, she stood speechless as Hearn, Chief Professional Officer of the BGCVFC Joe Sullivan, and Board President-elect Jenae Mathews shared Chavers’ accolades.
“What good comes out of Spring Hill? Here it is,” Chavers said as she thanked the community, volunteers, donors, students, BGCVFC, her husband and family.
“The impact of community investments in our youth services will make a lasting impact on our future,” Hearn said.
— Cameron, a longtime educator, lives in Orange City.
