Making a Lasting Commitment

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia

For 13,000 children in eleven separate neighborhoods throughout  Philadelphia, the Boys & Girls Club is a haven—a safe place in challenged neighborhoods. It’s an organization frequently credited with keeping children whole. It’s a place known for helping young adults learn right from wrong. It’s a program equipped not just with indoor gyms, soccer fields, and basketball courts, but with more than one hundred computer labs.

Not long ago, Shire made a five-year, $1.2 million commitment designed to help the Clubs modernize their facilities throughout the city. New information technology is being implemented. New mentors and aides are joining the staff. Kids are being given greater opportunities to develop their skills and secure a future.

We feel that our investment can affect a real and lasting change for the many children who spend their after-school hours at the clubs,” said Mike Yasick from Shire’s Behavioral Health Business Unit.

We recognize that we have a responsibility to make a difference, and we believe that we can have our greatest impact on the children we have come to understand through- out our work in behavioral health.” For Yasick, who has visited the clubs and watched them in action, this kind of outreach is hugely rewarding. It’s one of the things that Shire is best at.

Sadly, Mike Yasick tragically died on March 8, 2013. One of the many legacies he leaves behind is his commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable youth, including this program with the Philadelphia Boys & Girls Club. Mike will be greatly missed by all those who knew him and those who were touched by his kindness.