Jeffrey Breslin

Jeffrey Breslin
President & CEO
Boys & Girls Clubs of Metropolitan Baltimore

Jeffrey Breslin had 15 years of youth development and philanthropic experience with Under Armour and the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation when he was named president and CEO of BGCMB in 2018. Less than two years later, Breslin had his team ready to be innovative as the pandemic struck.

Breslin modernized and rebranded BGCMB, which led to new programs and attracted new donors. A new Baltimore chapter and a successful fundraiser were among the 2019 highlights that helped prepare the organization for 2020.

“While Boys and Girls Clubs are centered on the value of a safe, secure club experience, I was proud to lead our team to create an adjusted program model in the face of COVID-19,” he said.

The model focused on three new elements: virtual programming, family support and child care for essential personnel.

After two weeks of planning, Breslin said, BGCMB staff over three months made more than 1,600 calls and safe home visits; provided more than 1,200 hours of child care to essential personnel; hosted more 28,000 hours of virtual youth development programming; and delivered more than 55 technology support packs.

“The last few months have certainly not been easy, nor has 2020 been the year of growth we expected. Yet our team has responded with grace, energy and a commitment to serve,” he said. “Our work has looked different, and like many organizations, we have had to pivot to new ways of working, but I could not be prouder of the response by our staff, board and families.”

Now Breslin is looking to the future and preparing programs that will show the potential of BGCMB and “our role in leading more young people toward a new American dream rooted in equity and opportunity.”

“The last few months have certainly not been easy, nor has 2020 been the year of growth we expected. Yet our team has responded with grace, energy and a commitment to serve.”
—Jeffrey Breslin