Two Lakes Area State Representatives get a first hand look at the activities and programs at the Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks.

156th State Representative Brian Seitz, according to a press release from his office, took the tour of the Shirley M. Shaefer Unit in Branson last week with 155th State Rep Travis Smith.

The release goes on to state that the State Reps were shown around by Chief Executive Officer Stoney Hays as well as Director of Operations Patrick Stewart with several members explaining the programs and activities along with way. 

“I was 'very pleasantly surprised' by my tour of the Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks...”, said Seitz in the release. “The children were knowledgeable, well-read and well-behaved, able to answer questions and overall represented just why this organization is so valuable for area youth.”

Seitz also said he saw that the club was not just a drop off place for youth but also an instructive opportunity. Hayes was quoted in the release that "The Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks is redefining the opportunity equation for kids by elevating the critical role of out-of-school time."

“Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks truly seemed to be a family” Seitz concluded, “In today's turbulent society, nestled right here in the Ozarks is a gem, training and encouraging our youth to be the future doctors, lawyers, skilled laborers, entertainers and maybe (we only need a few of these) politicians. I can't say enough about the tour, and I shall be a strong advocate for the organization on a state and local level.”