How One Alum Stationed in Italy is Getting Through the Pandemic
Coming from a military family, Boys & Girls Clubs of America-affiliated Military Youth Center alum Adam D’Amico attended the NAS Oceana Child & Youth Programs (CYP) in Virginia Beach, Va., where he learned many life lessons about service in the community, how to be a leader and doing what is right. He participated in Keystone Club and eventually went on to become a candidate for the Virginia State Youth of the Year in 2006. He credits the Youth Center for teaching him everything from successful money management and setting goals to achieving the things he wanted – ultimately gaining him more responsibility as a Youth Center staff member.
Adam’s path awarded him a degree in business administration with a double minor in sports management and IT from Columbia Southern University. Holding several roles of responsibility throughout his time as a Youth Center staff member, his experience enabled him to become a Director of a Youth Center site within the same Military organization. Reaching a new level and ready to take on the world, Adam went on to complete his second degree in psychology which led him to his current role of Youth Director at Sigonella Naval Air Station, Sigonella Italy Navy Youth Programs in Sicily, Italy. Since the COVID-19 lockdown, his life has changed pretty dramatically.
Adam and his wife are expecting their third child, and when the pandemic broke out, she was sent back to the United States to avoid potential complications. While mom and baby are doing well, Adam has had to learn to be a solo dad to two young boys. This new normal of parenting while maintaining his role as a Youth Director has come with its challenges, but Adam and the staff he works with do what they can to make a difference for youth right now. Adam shared, “From a Youth Center perspective, we are utilizing social media to keep in contact with parents, asking families to submit questions while also providing ways for families to engage.” This effort enables the Youth Center to develop and share resources, like tips and activities to bring levity to their daily routines.
Adam noted another focus is to simply get through each day. “This is something nobody has ever had to deal with, so our world is currently ever-changing. We remain steadfast with our adaptability and follow the guidance as best as possible. When we’re required to leave our house only for essential business such as work, medical care or groceries, [we] stay positive. Things will eventually get better. Do your best to keep busy and take advantage of this time,” said Adam.
To learn more about supporting local Clubs and Youth Centers during the Coronavirus pandemic, visit bgca.org/covid19.
We want to hear more stories about former Club and Youth Center kids making an impact in local communities! Tag us on Facebook @BGCalumni, Instagram @alwaysaclubkid or email us at alum@bgca.org.
