Affiliate Partner Spotlight: Diamond Bell, Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago

Think Big partners with the hard-working, dedicated and caring professionals of the Boys & Girls Clubs to provide students with Career Exploration programming. Chicago Advisory Board and Marketing Committee member Crystal Morris highlights Diamond Bell, an extraordinary young woman who is truly making a difference in the lives of kids in Chicago.

What do you do for the Boys & Girls Clubs?

A. As a team member of the Boys and Girls Club of Chicago, I work as a College Access Specialist within the STAR Program: Success Through Academic Readiness. As a college access specialist, we garner the necessary resources and tools to provide our youth (grades 6-12) exposure into potential college and career opportunities. I cultivate engaging 8-week curriculum for youth with content centered around career and college interests. We have an array of services including workshops, academic support, events, field trips, and collaborations with other alike programs.

How do you work with Think Big for Kids?

A. Working with Think Big for Kids has leveraged our program and expanded the opportunities for our youth. Through the years, I’ve witnessed Think Big bring forth several professional individuals and companies who have not only made an impact on our youth but influenced my professional growth as well. Think Big is a selfless organization that truly puts our communities before their own interests with integrity and impact. From traveling to our Chicago clubs to inviting us on field trips, Thing Big has bridged many opportunity gaps for our youth and communities.

What do you love about giving back?

I truly enjoy reaching the minds and hearts of the youth. As an adult, I can see how important it is to give our youth support in their personal and professional lives. Offering a lending ear has always been the most fulfilling aspect of giving back. To know that I was essential in the journey of individuals is heartwarming.

Life mantras?

” You are enough”

“I am growing and learning every day”

“I deserve to feel good about myself”

Experienced gained working with the Boys & Girls Clubs?

The best experiences I’ve gained with working within the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago and collaborating with Think Big is the ability to assess the youth where they are and to meet their needs in that moment. The ability to understand the specific professional and personal needs of each student takes discernment, care and passion.