CITY OF ARLINGTON | Grants Management Annual Report 2025 21
COMMUNITY IMPACT HIGHLIGHT
BRIANNA’ S BRIGHT FUTURE: FINDING STRENGTH AND SUPPORT AT BGCGTC
For Brianna H., a longtime member of the Dan Serna Branch of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County( BGCGTC), the Club has become more than a place to go after school— it’ s a lifeline. Living with type 1 diabetes, Brianna faces daily challenges balancing her health, academics, and social life. At BGCGTC, she’ s found a safe, supportive environment that nurtures both her well-being and her growth.
Through the Blue Door Kitchen, Brianna receives nutritious meals that help her manage her blood sugar and stay energized. Caring staff work closely with her and her family to support healthy routines. Beyond health, the Club has helped Brianna explore her talents— most recently performing cello during a summer opening ceremony, a moment that boosted her confidence and passion for the arts.
“ CDBG fully aligns with our mission of helping all young people, especially those who need us most, reach their full potential,” says Branch Director Amy Urbanowicz.
BGCGTC’ s impact goes far beyond Brianna:
• 92 % of youth report feeling safe and supported
• 94 % are on track to graduate high school
• Over 83,000 fresh, healthy meals are served annually
For Brianna and thousands of others, BGCGTC is more than a club— it’ s a path to a brighter future.
EMPOWERING STUDENTS THROUGH HOPE TUTORING
HOPE Tutoring Center is a nonprofit that provides free tutoring to Arlington students in grades 2 – 8, with a focus on Title I schools and low-income families. Since its start in a laundromat in 1996, HOPE has grown to offer in-school, after-school, virtual tutoring, and academic summer camps— all led by volunteer tutors.
With over 6,000 Arlington students not meeting grade-level standards in math and reading last year, the need for tutoring is critical. Thanks to support from CDBG and community donations, HOPE continues to expand its reach.
In addition to year-round tutoring, HOPE offers free summer Math, Reading, and STEM camps to keep students engaged, help them retain learning, and build new skills in a fun, supportive environment.
“ Without this program, I just don’ t even know … I was working at the time, and HOPE was there for me and him. I would sit outside in the car and sleep after work so he could get his work done at HOPE. People need to know that HOPE makes a difference. You don’ t know who you’ re tutoring. You don’ t know if you’ re tutoring a future president, astronaut, or postal worker.”
— Parent