Bob Stower’s connection to the Jelleff Boys & Girls Club runs deep. He first became involved with the club in the late 1950s, starting as a Club kid. His early involvement led him to be offered jobs as a counselor and lifeguard during the summer by the Club’s Director. These roles gave him firsthand experience in the workings of the club and set the stage for his future career. After graduating from college, Bob was offered his first full-time position at Jelleff as Program Director. His career continued to evolve as he became Director of Recreation, then Athletic Director, and finally Club Director in 1992. Bob’s journey at Jelleff reflects the opportunity for growth and leadership that the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington provide to their staff, preparing them to make a lasting impact on the youth they serve. 

Bob Stowers, in front of the trophy case at Jelleff Recreation Center in Georgetown, Washington, D.C.

One of Bob’s most significant contributions was creating Jelleff’s basketball league, which has become a cornerstone of the club’s athletic programming. The league attracts youth from across the DC metro area, providing an opportunity for kids to develop skills, build teamwork, and engage in positive activities. Bob’s vision for the league and his leadership in building it from the ground up have made it a key feature of Jelleff’s youth programming, drawing kids from a wide region to participate and develop a love for the sport. 

Bob’s family also has a long history with Jelleff—both his father and his uncle were members, and Bob grew up within walking distance of the club. Over the years, Bob witnessed two major transitions at Jelleff: the integration of girls into the club and, in 1963, the inclusion of kids from all backgrounds, shifting from an all-white membership to a more diverse and inclusive environment. These changes had a lasting impact on the club and the community it served, and Bob’s story reflects how the Boys & Girls Clubs continue to create opportunities for all youth.

‘The greatest thing about the Jelleff Club is the wide variety of youth that attend,” said Bob. “The Club is located in Georgetown, an affluent neighborhood, but since 1963, youth across D.C. have become a part of the Jelleff family, regardless of their socioeconomic status, race, or ethnicity” One of Bob’s biggest challenges over the years has been maintenance. He takes tremendous pride in ensuring that the clubhouse is always in top condition and welcoming to the youth.

Bob Stowers (number 21) on the basketball team at Jelleff as a Club kid

Over the years, The has painted the entire gym at Jelleff three separate times, managing the task alone each time. He also cuts the grass and knows the building inside and out, always aware of exactly where to go and who to call if something breaks. Bob’s hands-on approach to maintenance reflects his deep commitment to the club and the safety of its members. He understands that a well-maintained, safe, and welcoming environment is essential for the youth to thrive, and he ensures that the clubhouse reflects these values every day. 

Alston Waller, Club Director at the Dunbar Alexandria Olympic Club, is another example of a dedicated leader who makes a lasting impact on youth. Like Bob, Alston’s journey with the Boys & Girls Club started when he was a Club kid. He credits the Club for changing his life and is now committed to providing that same transformative experience for the youth at his club. A graduate of Virginia State University with a degree in Physical Education, Alston prioritizes exposing youth to higher education by taking them on college tours. “But in the end, they always choose Virginia State,” he jokes, a reflection of his pride in his alma mater and his passion for giving youth the tools they need to succeed academically. 

Alston Waller, Club Director at Dunbar Alexandria Olympic Clubhouse in Old Town Alexandria, V.A.

Now 40 years old, Alston understands the power of mentorship and education, and he works tirelessly to create opportunities for the youth at his club. He believes that the experiences youth have at the Club—whether through college exploration or physical education programs—help set them on a path for success. “We see this happen frequently. The youth that stay in the Clubs through high school excel when they graduate,” said Alston. His own story is a testament to the positive impact the Club can have, and he uses his position to ensure that every young person he works with has the opportunity to thrive. 

A proud alumnus of Virginia State University, Alston is a champion of education. As Club Director, he created opportunities for youth to tour local colleges and universities before they graduate high school.  

Alston Waller as a youth who attending the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington.

At the heart of every successful Boys & Girls Club is the Club Director, an expert in child development who plays a pivotal role in shaping the lives of youth. These dedicated professionals wear many hats, managing a diverse team of staff while ensuring the effective implementation of programs like Smart Girls, Money Matters, and Keystone Club. Their leadership is crucial in providing both teen and adult programs that prepare youth for success in the annual Youth of the Year (YOTY) competition and beyond. 

Club Directors are responsible for creating a safe and nurturing environment where youth thrive. They maintain the club’s facilities, ensuring everything is in top condition for a variety of enriching activities, and plan exciting field trips that introduce youth to new opportunities and experiences. But beyond managing logistics, they build lifelong bonds with the youth, guiding them through challenges and celebrating their achievements. 

Judy Moore (gray shirt), Club Director at General Heiser Clubhouse in Manassas, V.A.

With a deep understanding of trauma-informed care practices, Club Directors ensure that every program is delivered with sensitivity to the unique needs of the youth they serve. This compassion and expertise extend to time management, as they balance a busy schedule of planning, staff training, and community engagement. Communication is key in their role—whether it’s coordinating with parents, local businesses, or school partners, Club Directors are always fostering connections that support the success of the youth and the club. 

Through their unwavering dedication, Club Directors at Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington make a lasting impact on the lives of youth, equipping them with the tools, support, and opportunities they need to thrive both now and in the future.