Lynn Cherry and daughters in front of Sprout Studios.
For Lynn Cherry, education has never just been a career — it’s been a calling. A Montessori-trained educator with 24 years of experience across public, private, and Montessori schools, Lynn always knew she was destined for the classroom. “I was that little girl playing school in the basement,” she laughs. “My dad always said, ‘Your education is the most important thing in life,’ and that really stuck with me.”
Lynn Cherry of Sprout Studios.
After 13 years in the classroom, Lynn took a leap of faith and stepped into administration, eventually becoming vice principal, then head of school at Lial Catholic School in Whitehouse. “It was a huge decision,” she recalls. “But I missed the kids. I wanted to be part of their growth — not just academically, but as people.”
And even now, after her retirement, the connection hasn’t faded. “The proudest moments of my career are when I’m invited back for graduations,” she says. “To watch them grow from little ones to young adults is a gift.”
A new chapter: The birth of Sprout Studios
As retirement approached, Lynn began to wonder: what’s next? The answer came naturally — Sprout Studios, a family-inspired learning space designed to bring Montessori education to life in her own community.
“I knew this was what I was meant to do next,” she said. “When my husband and I toured the building that became Sprout, I just knew it was the right place. We spent months preparing the space, and I couldn’t have done it without my families help.”
True to its name, Sprout Studios is all about growth. The name reflects both Lynn’s passion for education and her family’s deep ties to local agriculture — her husband is a grower. “It’s about planting seeds and watching them grow, whether in a garden or a child.”
What Sprout Studios offers
Sprout’s isn’t just a school — it’s a community hub for children and their caregivers. From cozy Montessori playgroups for toddlers to creative homeschool enrichment classes, Lynn has designed each program to meet children where they are, fostering independence, curiosity and confidence.
Signature programs include:
Montessori mama: A playgroup for ages 2–4 and their caregivers (dads welcome!) featuring storytime, yoga and Montessori-inspired exploration.
Creative flow: A unique blend of yoga and crafting for ages 5–10, weaving in STEM and art concepts.
Future entrepreneurs camp: For budding business minds ages 7–10.
Montessori homeschool group: A weekly gathering where children and parents work side-by-side with Montessori learning and community support.
Sprouts also emphasizes inclusion, offering sensory-friendly options and welcoming learners of all abilities.
Rooted in values, growing with purpose
Lynn’s philosophy is simple but powerful: “Every child is perfectly made. As educators, it’s our job to create an environment where they can flourish. And parents — parents know their children best. Sprout gives them a chance to learn alongside their kids.”
More than just academic success, Lynn wants children at Sprout Studios to learn something deeper: community responsibility. “I want these kids to learn how to give back to their community. Whether it’s through service projects or partnerships, that’s an essential part of what we’re building here.”
Looking ahead
As she looks forward to Sprout’s first full fall season, Lynn is excited about the future. “Opening a business is hard. It doesn’t happen overnight. But if you start small and work toward it, you’ll get there. It took me 25 years to get here — and I wouldn’t change a thing.”
With family by her side — her youngest daughter a student, her oldest now a full-time educator and part time teacher at Sprout — Lynn Cherry isn’t just teaching children how to grow. She’s planting deep roots for families to flourish together.
Let’s face it: digital age kids may be less thrilled by the prospect of doing chores or homework than the children of yesteryear. The eye rolls and dramatic sighs may, perhaps, be more exhausting than just doing those chores yourself. But what if, instead of battling digital temptation, we harnessed it? What if we transformed those mundane tasks into something, dare we say, fun?
Gamification of mundane tasks
How is that possible? Is there a secret cheat code? In fact, there is. And it’s called Gamification — the process of adding game-like elements to those pesky chores and tedious homework assignments, to encourage and facilitate participation. Gamification can be a powerful parenting tool. Think of it as turning your household into an interactive, real-life quest. Imagine “The Dishwasher Dungeon” or “The Homework Hunt.” It may sound crazy, but with a little effort, it can be surprisingly effective.
Clear goals
The first step is to define clear goals – goals that get the results you want and sound fun for children. Break down those daunting chores and study sessions into bite-sized, engaging challenges. “Conquer laundry mountain!” is far more appealing than simply, “Do your laundry.” “It’s time for homework”, could be changed to “Unravelling the secrets of social studies!” or “Mastering mathematical magic!”
Next, establish clear rules. Like a game’s instruction manual, these rules should be simple and easy to remember so everyone knows what’s expected. And, once you get started, tweak these rules as needed. Digital age kids are accustomed to hotfixes and patches in video games, so making those adjustments will be nothing new to them.
Rewards
This next step is crucial. You need to design a reward system that is both exciting and that children can easily see value in — think points, badges, even a literal, or virtual, treasure chest. Assign points for completed tasks, similar to earning experience points in a game. These points can then be redeemed for rewards – a later bedtime, a movie night pick, credit on their preferred gaming platform or a desired gift. You can add even more excitement by surprising them with hidden rewards when they reach unexpected milestones.
Chart the progress, use the vernacular
Visual progress is essential. Think of it as a level-up bar. This could be a chart on the fridge, a digital tracker on the family tablet – anything that visually represents their progress. Instant feedback is also important. A quick “Great job!” or an encouraging “Let’s go, you’re almost to the next level!” keeps them engaged and motivated.
Now, let’s talk about game mechanics. Chores can be rebranded as challenges or quests. “Complete the kitchen cleanup quest to unlock extra screen time!” Use progression to show advancement, like moving from “Apprentice Organizer” to “Master Tidier.” You could even add themes or a story that changes regularly to keep things interesting. “The Secret Agent Laundry Mission” or “The Space Explorer Homework Expedition” can transform even the most tedious tasks into grand adventures.
Collaboration and custom tailoring
Collaboration and healthy competition can also be powerful motivators. Create collaborative tasks, like a family cooking challenge, or introduce friendly competition through leaderboards. Just remember to keep it lighthearted and fun. And in this digital age, don’t forget the power of technology. There are apps that turn chores into games, and even smart home gadgets can add a touch of gamification to everyday routines.
Remember, the key is to tailor the system to your family’s interests. What excites one child might bore another. So don’t be afraid to experiment. Additionally, it’s important to maintain consistency. No one enjoys a ‘buggy’ game. Finding the right ‘effort versus reward balance’ is vital. Too few rewards, or rewards that are too difficult to attain, will only cause frustration. On the other hand, if rewards are too easy to earn, children will quickly lose interest.
Gamification isn’t about tricking your kids into doing chores. It’s about creating a fun, engaging environment that fosters responsibility and a sense of accomplishment. It’s about turning parenting into a game everyone wants to play.
The summer heat is here with repeated declarations of “I’m bored” from the kids. We have compiled a list of local pools and splash pads that provide a perfect way to beat the heat and to keep the kids entertained.
Though Blue Heron Bay Spray Park (you’ll also find it online as “Splash Park”) is an hour’s drive from Toledo, we think it’s worth adding to our list for its amazing features. There are no pools, but the park has splash pads and water slides galore. Your kids will have no trouble staying entertained while cooling off on a hot summer day at this road-trip-worthy favorite!
This award-winning city pool has several fun water features, including a lap pool, waterslide, diving boards, splash pad, a reserved toddler area and a lazy river. Coolers and outside food (except baby food) are not permitted, but there are concessions available for purchase. Admission prices for non-residents are $8.75 for adults, $8 for kids aged K-12, and $6 for children 6 and under, while residents pay $6.50, $6 and $4.25, respectively. Season passes are also available for both residents and non-residents. For the pool’s full schedule, search the city website at bgohio.org, or call 419-373-1778.
5773 Centennial Rd., Sylvania
Admission: $7 per person
Surrounded by rock cliffs and averaging 22 feet deep, spring-fed Centennial Quarry is a great option for teen and young-adult swimmers. Take advantage of the diving platforms, water toys and swim rafts while you’re there. For people who don’t like to get wet, there are alternatives: the quarry also has a sandy beach, volleyball courts and a basketball court. Admission is $7 per person, although seasonal, 10-day passes and full memberships are also available. Visit their website, or call 419-882-1500.
Enjoy the wildlife views at the Toledo Zoo, and then cool off in the Cool Zone! This new addition to the Zoo has proven to be appreciated. With hot days and endless sunlight, the Zoo will keep the Cool Zone open till Labor Day. The Cool Zone is included in your Zoo admission. For more information, visit toledozoo.org, or call 419-385-5721.
This fresh addition to the Coontz Recreation Complex is the perfect spot for those seeking fun under the sun. The 2,400 square foot pad includes 14 different environments for play, including a 360-degree basketball water cannon, baseball bat fountain sprayers, a misting soccer goal, and assorted ground sprayers throughout. The pad is free to all. For more information, call the Oregon Recreation Department at 419-698-7169.
Prefer the feeling of sand between your toes? Pack a picnic and head out to East Harbor State Park and its 1,500-foot sand beach. A picnic area is nearby, as well as the East Harbor State Park Marina & Restaurant. There are no lifeguards, so swim at your own risk. While in the area, enjoy one of the park’s 11 hiking trails, rent a bicycle, enjoy some volleyball, or camp for the weekend. Get more info at parks.ohiodnr.gov/eastharbor, or call 419-734-4424.
Need a change of pace driving home from Cedar Point? The historic gated community of Lakeside, Ohio, has several options for adults and kids that love the water. A day or season pass gets you access to Lakeside’s 700-foot dock stretching into Lake Erie. A sandy beach area is available for sunbathing, wading and swimming, provided lifeguards are on duty. Swimming lessons can be purchased for all ages on weekdays. Lakeside also features a Splash Park and a children’s pool with a safety fence, bench seating and a zero-depth entry pool. Visit the website at lakesideohio.com to see information on passes to Lakeside.
This 1,336-acre recreational facility offers a little something for everyone. Maumee Bay boasts two sand beaches, one on Lake Erie’s shore and one on a lake within the park. Forgot the cooler? There’s also a concession area, as well as changing booths. Besides swimming, other activities include camping, boating, fishing, golf and hiking trails through meadows, woods and marshes. Find more information at parks.ohiodnr.gov/maumeebay or by calling 419-836-7758.
Admission to this pool $12 for non-residents aged 6 and up, payable by cash or credit card. All children ages 5 and under, regardless of residency, get free admission. Residents of Perrysburg or the Perrysburg City School District are eligible to purchase a season pass. The pool restricts the number of passes sold until after the swim team championship meets in mid-July, after which the fee is half-price. Bonus: This pool is dog-friendly! Need more info? Call 419-872-7966 or visit ci.perrysburg.oh.us.
Plummer Pool is open this year from now through Labor Day. Admission fees for Sylvania residents are $3 for kids under age 12, and $4 for swimmers aged 12 and up. For non-residents, the price is $6 and $8, respectively. Memberships, rentals and swimming lessons are also available. For more information, call 419-882-1500 or go to playsylvania.com/plummer-pool.
Rolf Park Pool features several colorful waterslides and free community events. Although open to the public, there is an admission charge of $5-15 per person (depending on height). Memberships are available to Maumee residents. You can even rent it for a pool party! Search for “Rolf Pool” on maumee.org, or call 419-897-7172 to get the details.
Check out Rolling Hills Water Park and experience a fun-filled day. The park is jam-packed with activities for the whole family including a wave pool, lazy river, and water slides. Admission is $12 for residents and 16 for non-residents. Kids under 36 inches tall are free. Visit washtenaw.org/rollinghills or call 734-484-9676.
Toledo City Pools
The City of Toledo operates several pools within the 419. Look below to find the one closest to you! Because Toledo City pools may close without notice due to mechanical or weather issues, call 419-936-2875 for recreation information, or search for pool information on the city website at toledo.oh.gov. Admission is $1 for children 12 and under and $2 for anyone 13 and older.
Willys Complex Pool (1375 Hillcrest) Navarre Pool (1001 White)Pickford Pool (3000 Medford) Savage Splash Pad Water Play Park (645 Vance St.) Roosevelt Pool (910 Dorr St.) Wilson Pool (3253 Otto) Jamie Farr Pool (2000 Summit)
Step out of Toledo and take a quick drive to Thorn Park! With a variety of ways to cool-off, the entire family can enjoy themselves. Pack a picnic and soak up the rays all day (but please note that food and drinks are not allowed in the gated splash area). Admission is $3/hr. Visit brownstownrec.org for more information.
Lake Olander swim and beach facilities is a great way to spend the day. They are adding new water toys this summer. Children 2 and under are free, while Sylvania School District residents are $5/person. All other guests are 7.
On June 9, 2023, phase 2 of Glass City Metropark opened, reflecting the community’s goal of turning brownfield land into a waterfront park. Glass City Metropark also completed the first section of a larger project called Glass City Riverwalk, which has a goal of establishing a city center with 300 acres of greenspace.
The water features include a splash pad with a waterfall and rivers that reflect Northwest Ohio rivers, a traditional splash pad, and a section with mist.
To learn more about Glass City Metropark, visit their website.
Families can now enjoy a season of big-screen entertainment as the Summer Movie Clubhouse kicks off its 10-week run of kid-friendly films. Tickets are just $1.75 each, making it an affordable option for a morning out with the kids.
In addition to discounted admission, participating theaters are offering $1 off kids’ snack packs and any size popcorn and drink combos during Summer Movie Clubhouse showtimes.
Screenings are scheduled for Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m. through August 7, with select locations offering additional showtimes throughout the week.
Students at Elite Karate, Fitness, and Wellness support each other while practicing their skills, embodying the school's commitment to fostering a safe and empowering environment where everyone can strive to be their best selves.
Exceleration Gymnastics Center offers a variety of programs for kids, including recreational gymnastics, tumbling, aerial silks and parkour. The newly renovated Jungle Gym provides a safe and fun environment for younger children, while the main gym features advanced equipment for older kids. Exceleration also hosts birthday parties, private lessons and summer camps to keep kids active and engaged.
Glass City CrossFit offers a dynamic CrossFit Kids program designed to teach children proper movement, strength and conditioning in a fun and engaging way. The classes focus on developing confidence, skill and overall health, with age-appropriate activities that promote fitness and reduce childhood obesity. The Teens program is tailored for high school athletes, improving their speed, coordination, strength and endurance while preventing common overuse injuries.
A young athlete at KidStrong Toledo receives a celebratory high-five from a dedicated coach, highlighting the supportive environment where kids build confidence and important life skills through science-based, engaging programs.
KidStrong Toledo is a leading kids’ training program that focuses on building strong, confident and high-character kids through a science-based curriculum. Designed for children from walking age to 11 years old, KidStrong’s 45-minute weekly classes are taught by certified coaches and focus on developing a strong body, brain and character. Each session provides a dynamic mix of physical fitness, social-emotional learning and life skills, helping kids boost their confidence and achieve developmental milestones. Parents are an integral part of the journey, with access to educational support and a community network.
LBs Circuit Training offers an energetic and fun LBs KidsFit class designed for kids ages 3-10. The class includes dynamic activities like cardio drumming, parachutes, silly circuits, small weights, balance exercises and collaborative games. Each session is tailored to engage kids of varying abilities, ensuring they enjoy moving while building strength and coordination.
With over 45 years of experience, they offer one of the largest and best-equipped gymnastics facilities in the U.S. Programs include Preschool Gym (ages 1-6), Progressive Gymnastics for boys and girls (ages 6-18), and specialized tumbling and Tae Kwon Do classes. Small class sizes, top-tier equipment and expert instructors help kids build coordination, strength, flexibility and confidence.
5201 Monroe St, Toledo 126 W South Boundary St, Perrysburg 5660 Monroe St, Sylvania At ADAMAS Jiu-Jitsu, kids’ classes focus on teaching the fundamentals of Jiu Jitsu and self-defense while fostering discipline, respect, confidence and leadership. Designed for ages 5-12, the program offers a safe and engaging environment where children can build fitness and self-esteem under the guidance of experienced instructors. These classes emphasize technique and personal growth, ensuring that young students not only learn martial arts but also develop important life skills.
During a class at All American Karate in Sylvania, students receive expert instruction, embracing a supportive community that empowers them to build confidence, resilience and mastery of martial arts skills.
7601 W Sylvania Ave., Sylvania 419-517-2073 All American Karate has been a cornerstone of martial arts excellence in Sylvania since 2005, offering classes in American Karate for ages 4 to adult and Alpha Krav Maga for adults. The school emphasizes more than just physical skills, fostering confidence, resilience and self-discipline through a supportive community and top-notch facilities. Children develop coordination, control and social skills in a nurturing environment that extends beyond the dojo. The school’s dedicated instructors guide students in mastering martial arts techniques while shaping their character and instilling life skills.
2410 Key St Ste 4, Toledo 419-318-1728 Allen’s American Martial Arts for Kids offers a dynamic program that helps children develop life skills like focus, confidence, respect and social interaction in a fun and engaging setting. The classes emphasize discipline, leadership, and self-esteem, helping to improve school performance and teach valuable life lessons. With a focus on respect and self-discipline, children quickly gain confidence and focus, leading to noticeable improvements in behavior.
2119 Ashland Ave, Suite 206, Toledo All-In Boxing Academy offers world-class coaching in a state-of-the-art facility. With classes for various skill levels, their programs incorporate traditional and innovative boxing methods. They provide both full-contact and non-contact classes, including personalized one-on-one training with tailored nutrition plans. All necessary equipment, from wraps to gloves, is available for purchase on-site. All-in’s coaches, who have national and international boxing experience, are dedicated to helping participants reach their fitness goals in a safe and engaging environment.
2434 W. Laskey Rd., Toledo 419-474-5432 Elite Karate, Fitness, and Wellness offers transformative kids’ martial arts classes that focus on developing leadership skills, respect, discipline, and focus in a fun and supportive environment. The “Karate Adapted 4 All” program provides an inclusive option for children, while the Teen Martial Arts classes prepare older students for life’s challenges with self-defense skills and personal growth. Both programs emphasize strong boundaries and create an atmosphere where kids thrive both academically and socially.
Young students in the Little Dragons class at Kempo Martial Arts & Fitness Center practice their moves, enhancing coordination, balance and focus in a supportive and fun environment.
6511 Central Avenue, Suite B, Toledo 419-908-2931 Kempo Martial Arts & Fitness Center offers Little Dragons classes for children aged 5 and under, focusing on building coordination, balance and focus in a fun, supportive environment. Featuring interactive learning and a unique tie-dye belt, the program ensures kids feel special and engaged. Parents are encouraged to stay for support and bonding.
3100 Main Street, Suite 1145 – Shops at Fallen Timbers, Maumee 419-385-1000 At Ohio Martial Arts, kids have fun while building confidence, focus and discipline. Led by experienced instructor Joseph Hurtsellers, this program helps children discover their passion, improve their grades, and learn life skills like respect and perseverance. Classes are held twice a week, saving parents time without the weekend travel required by many team sports.
A student from Special Ninjas Therapeutic Martial Arts practices her skills, exemplifying the program’s mission to provide opportunities worldwide for individuals of all abilities to stay active and foster community cohesion.
Special Ninjas Therapeutic Martial Arts offers a range of programs designed to accommodate diverse needs and promote physical and mental well-being. The “Karate Adapted 4 All” program is a therapeutic fitness initiative providing online lesson plans for dojos, schools and therapy centers, perfect for keeping children and adults with special needs active and engaged. Facilities can enhance their offerings with the Special Ninjas Certification, distinguishing themselves by integrating a unique therapeutic karate program into their services. Additionally, Special Ninjas provides private lessons and sensory play, focusing on fostering life skills and providing personalized attention to children and adults with special needs.
1100 N. McCord Rd., Suite M&N, Toledo 419-320-6780 Sylvania Family Karate offers diverse martial arts programs for children to build confidence, focus and discipline in a supportive environment. The Early Skillz class for ages 3-4 blends play with foundational martial arts to boost development. Basic Skillz (ages 5-6) focuses on balance and coordination, while Core Skillz (ages 7-9) enhances mental focus and perseverance. Extreme Skillz for ages 10-14 teaches self-defense and confidence for teens. Each program promotes physical and mental growth, ensuring comprehensive development.
Toledo Ark Program at YBE Boxing Gym
316 Fassett, Toledo The Toledo Ark program at YBE Boxing Gym combines boxing with mental wellness to empower youth. Led by experienced coaches like Albert (WBC titleholder), Adrian (nearly 20 years in the sport), and James (ideal for beginners), the program focuses on building confidence and self-control. Classes include mental health discussions followed by boxing training, ensuring comprehensive development. Open 24/7, YBE Boxing Gym is dedicated to creating great fighters in a supportive environment.
1124 Corporate Drive, Holland 419-861-0895 Ballet Theatre of Toledo is dedicated to offering high-quality ballet instruction for students from ages 3 to adults. Under the direction of Nigel Burgoine, the studio promotes artistic creativity and provides unique performance opportunities. Situated in spacious, state-of-the-art facilities, the theatre encourages personal and artistic development in a respectful and fun environment.
Three young dancers from Company C Dance Club showcase their vibrant costumes, embodying the creativity and discipline nurtured at the studio while preparing for an exciting performance.
6540 Central Ave, Toledo 419-841-9310 In its 20th year, Company C Dance Club offers a creative environment for dancers ages 3 and up, providing high-quality instruction in ballet, tap, jazz and hip hop at both recreational and competitive levels. The studio emphasizes discipline, respect and a lifelong appreciation for the arts, with programs tailored to each dancer’s goals. Facilities include spacious studios and a dancers lounge, enhancing the learning experience.
7343 International Drive, Holland, OH 419-893-6000 Dance Expressions Studio offers a wide array of dance classes for students aged 3 and up. Known for its professional staff and top-tier facilities, the studio emphasizes safety with sprung dance floors and individualized dance training, focusing on single dance styles for younger dancers. Programs range from Pre-Dance classes for ages 3-4 to hip hop and musical theater for ages 6 and up, with competitive opportunities through the XDT team. The studio hosts two annual recitals and fosters a community atmosphere where new families are encouraged to register in person for a personal introduction to the studio.
7575 Sylvan Towne Drive, Sylvania 419-843-9000 Celebrating its 89th year, Daryl Jervis Dance Studio offers instruction and top-notch facilities for dancers of all ages and skill levels. The studio features six dance rooms equipped with advanced lighting, surround sound and sprung-board floors for safety and enhanced learning. Programs include the Little Sparks Academy for ages 2.5 to 3, along with comprehensive classes in tap, jazz, hip-hop, lyrical and pointe for ages 5 and up. Hosting the competitive High Voltage Dance Company, the studio provides extensive performance opportunities, including annual recitals.
Young dancers at Evolve Dance Company receive tailored instruction, building technical skills and confidence in a nurturing environment that encourages community involvement and personal growth.
Evolve Dance Company delivers comprehensive dance training in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, lyrical and more. Classes are designed to develop both technical skills and personal confidence, supported by a philosophy that includes commitment and community involvement. Students perform in seasonal shows that highlight their growth and achievements. Evolve Dance Company also engages in various charitable endeavors, emphasizing its supportive role in the local community.
F.A.M.E.D. Studios offers a comprehensive dance curriculum designed to help each student reach their full potential. Classes encompass tap, ballet, jazz, hip hop, contemporary and lyrical dance, catering to all skill levels from beginner to advanced. Unique syllabi are based on renowned systems, such as the Al Gilbert method for Tap and various international styles for Ballet.
2437 Tremainsville Rd, Toledo 419-410-8755 Mini Motions Dance Center offers dance classes in Toledo for children ages 2 to 18. They focus on building confidence and coordination through a variety of dance styles, including tap, jazz, ballet, hip hop and more, as well as tumbling classes for ages 4 and up. The experienced staff, led by owner Devon Schroeder and director Sue Hays, provides affordable classes with family discounts. Students can showcase their skills in annual recitals to build stage confidence.
7820 Ponderosa Rd, Perrysburg 419-350-6340 The Dance Factory offers a diverse selection of dance classes for all ages and skill levels, focusing on building technical skills, flexibility, and creativity. Classes include jazz, ballet, hip hop, lyrical, tap, tumble and acro, with levels ranging from beginner to advanced. Younger dancers can start with Creative Movement (ages 3-5) and Tiny Tots (ages 18 months-3 years) to learn foundational skills. The studio provides a fun and supportive environment under trained instructors who prioritize safety and proper technique.
Tyreese Blue II was named the Boys and Girls Club youth of the year.
Tyreese Blue II, a member of Boys & Girls Clubs of Toledo’s Schoenrock Family Club, has been named the Ohio Youth of the Year. The Youth of the Year is Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s signature leadership award, a tradition dating back to 1947 which has been included in local, state, regional and national competitions. Blue’s path to becoming Youth of the Year was not without challenges, which he discusses candidly.
Overcoming challenges
Blue explains, “One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is growing up without my dad in my life. Even though my household was stable financially, not having that father figure around left a gap. It affected how I saw myself and how confident I felt. On top of that, I struggled a lot with social anxiety. I used to keep to myself because I didn’t feel comfortable speaking up or putting myself out there. But over time, the Boys & Girls Club helped change that. Through mentoring, volunteering, and just having people who believed in me — like Ms. Aleshia — I started coming out of my shell. Those experiences helped shape who I am today: someone who’s confident, driven and focused on giving back.”
Born to a teen mother, Blue discusses how important it was in his family to not become a teen statistic. Blue asserts, “I’m here to say that it’s not the circumstances that define you; It’s the community you choose to surround yourself with and the bold steps you take that define your success.”
Spreading positivity
Blue discusses entering the club at a time when social anxiety was a real struggle for him. He recalls how on his first day as a teen employee of the David Wehrmeister Club, the club director handed him a bag with a card inside. That card read, “You are seen. You are valued. You belong here.”
Blue longs to spread that message to his peers. When asked what advice he would share with other teens struggling with social anxiety, he thoughtfully expresses, “It’s easy to doubt yourself, especially when you’re stepping into a new environment or still figuring out who you are. But one thing I’ve learned is that confidence doesn’t come all at once, it builds over time. Start by finding the things that make you happy, and focus on stacking up small wins. Change isn’t going to happen overnight, so give yourself room to grow. Try new things, but don’t lose sight of who you are in the process. With time, discipline and the right people around you, you can achieve anything your heart is set on.”
With a $15,000 scholarship awarded to Blue as the winner of Youth of the Year and college credits already under his belt, many might be wondering what is next for this powerhouse high school senior.
Blue discusses how his experiences at the club have influenced his future plans. “Being part of the Boys & Girls Club has really opened my eyes to the needs in my community. It’s given me a whole new perspective and lit a fire in me to be a part of the change. I’ve always known I wanted to go into construction, but now my goals have expanded. I don’t just want a job in the industry — I want to eventually start my own construction company that focuses on giving back.” Blue intends to attend University of Toledo, where he will finish his bachelor’s degree in construction engineering technology, as well as pursuing a minor in business administration. Blue intends to use his degree to help create affordable housing for those in need and to create spaces to bring communities together.
Blue travelled to Chicago in June to compete for Midwest Youth of the Year event on June 26 (after the press deadline for this article). Tiffany Cavanaugh, board president of Boys and Girls Clubs of Toledo, states, “I could not be more proud of Tyreese’s representation of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Toledo – his character, poise, professionalism and leadership are unmatched. Likewise, he has a true heart for serving others and an unstoppable drive to succeed. I can’t wait to see what Tyreese’s future holds, and one thing is for sure – whatever he does, he will be an unstoppable success. Tyreese truly is an example of the Great Futures that start at Boys & Girls Clubs of Toledo.”
Sprout’s isn’t just a school — it’s a community hub for children and their caregivers. From cozy Montessori playgroups for toddlers to creative homeschool enrichment classes, Lynn has designed each program to meet children where they are, fostering independence, curiosity and confidence.
