Young members of the Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club are gaining more than entertainment through a series of musical and cultural outings — they are discovering inspiration, education, and personal growth.
Over the past year, the club has taken several youth groups to a variety of Oconee Performing Arts Society (OPAS) events, including Uptown R&B: A Celebration of Soul, Broadway Songs for OPAS, and the 2025 Memorial Day Weekend Concert. Most recently, 14 club members and their parents attended a performance by the musical group Sons of Serendip, an experience described by organizers as “awesome, touching, and inspirational.”
According to club leaders, the events offer young attendees a unique opportunity that goes beyond the music itself. Artists often take time during their performances to explain the purpose and history behind their songs, giving youth deeper insight into the music's meaning and inspiration.
“These moments resonate deeply with our youth and leave a lasting impact well beyond the concert hall,” said club officials.
On average, between 18 and 20 club members regularly attend OPAS events. Among the most dedicated participants is the Clark family. Stephanie Clark and her two children, Corri and Reece, have attended every event offered to the club.
Clark enrolled her children in the Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club four years ago. Specifically, he asked Club Director Stacy McClendon to mentor her son Reece in hopes of improving his behavior and academic performance. As part of that mentorship, McClendon began bringing Reece to OPAS concerts and local R&B and jazz performances at venues such as Festival Hall and Lake Oconee.
Today, Reece, 11, and his sister Corri, 6, have developed a strong passion for the club and the concerts they attend. Exposure to different musical genres — combined with artists sharing historical context and personal stories during performances — has broadened their knowledge and sparked a growing appreciation for the arts.
Club leaders say experiences like these demonstrate the broader impact of OPAS programs in the community.
Clark said she has seen clear improvements in her children since they joined the club.
“I have seen a major difference in my children since they joined the Pete Nance Boys & Girls Club, both in their behavior and academic performance, especially my son Reece,” Clark said. “Mr. Stacy McClendon has taken the time to mentor him, spend quality time with him at the Club, and invite him to numerous OPAS events. These experiences have increased his confidence and given him a new hobby outside of his comfort zone, while also expanding his knowledge and curiosity.”
Club leaders say the continued partnership between the Boys & Girls Club and OPAS will help ensure more youth in the community have access to enriching cultural experiences that can inspire lifelong learning and creativity.