Celebrating Champions for Youth

Help us honor those building GREAT FUTURES for OUR COMMUNITY

Celebrating Champions for Youth image

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee Area will honor Dr. Al Gilpin as 2024 Champion for Youth on Thursday, August 22, at the Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center, 201 S. Dargan St., downtown Florence. The reception will begin at 6 p.m. followed by the award presentation.

The McLeod pediatric orthopedic surgeon Dr. Gilpin earned his bachelor's degree at Clemson University before heading to Columbia's USC School of Medicine where he completed his orthopedic residency. He followed that with a pediatric orthopedic fellowship at Shriner's Hospital for Crippled Children and four years of service in the United States Navy. He worked as a pediatric orthopedic surgeon at Midlands Orthopedics in Columbia, S.C., for a decade before moving the McLeod Health in Florence in 2004.

DOWNLOAD THE FULL SPONSOR BROCHURE HERE

Sponsorships range from the $25,000 Program Leader to a $250 Booster sponsorship for two attendees. Individual tickets also are available for $75. The evening also will include a silent auction.

The Champions for Youth Tribute supports Boys & Girls Club programs that help thousands of children throughout the Pee Dee grow into productive adults. Attendance and financial contributions will help brighten the lives of some of our community’s most promising children. The Boys & Girls Clubs serve youth every day after school and all day on non-school days and during the summer. Clubs provide a safe place where young people can learn and grow while helping them become productive citizens.

Gilpin joins previous Champions For Youth honorees: 2023, Carlos Washington; 2022, Rick & Susan Goings; 2019, William T. “Billy” Jarrell; 2018, Tom Ewart; 2017, Rob Colones; 2016, Buddy Brand; 2015, Dr. Tammy Pawloski; 2014, Florence Boys & Girls Club 50th Anniversary; 2013, East Florence Mission/ Center Day School; 2012, Rev. Dr. William P. Diggs; 2011, Darla Moore; 2010, Ralph R. Porter, Jr.; 2009, Dr. Allie E. Brooks Jr.; 2008, Richard C. Harrington Jr.; 2007, Rep. James E. Clyburn; 2006, Sen. Hugh Leatherman Sr.; 2005, Dr. Luther F. Carter and 2004, Frank Avent.