Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama is proud to recognize two outstanding staff members whose dedication and service have helped shape the lives of countless young people throughout our community.
This year, we celebrate Bradley Craig on his 30th anniversary with the organization and Gwen Leslie on her 20th anniversary, marking a combined 50 years of service to the youth and families of South Alabama.
For three decades, Bradley Craig has embodied what it means to do “Whatever It Takes” for Club youth.
Throughout his career with Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama, Bradley has served in numerous roles, impacting generations of young people across multiple Club locations. Over the years, he has worked at the Optimist Branch and served as Branch Director at several former school-based sites, including Mae Eans Branch, Josephine Allen Branch, Hollinger’s Island Branch, Bishop State Branch, and Florence Howard Branch.
Today, Bradley serves as the School-Year P.E. Program Assistant at the Malkove Club and the Summer Site Supervisor for the Bishop State program.
When asked why he continues this work, Bradley previously shared:
“I do this because of the kids. I choose to work around the kids that I know I can have a positive impact on. I grew up in these neighborhoods, and I want to be a mentor for kids like me.”
That commitment has remained evident throughout his 30 years of service. Bradley has helped provide opportunities, encouragement, and mentorship to young people who may not otherwise have access to those experiences. His influence can be seen in the lives of countless Club members who have benefited from his leadership and guidance.
This year also marks a major milestone for Gwen Leslie, who is celebrating 20 years with Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama.
As Director of Accounting, Gwen plays a critical role in ensuring the organization remains financially strong and positioned to serve youth throughout South Alabama. While much of her work happens behind the scenes, her dedication helps make the mission possible each and every day.
Known for her professionalism, commitment, and positive spirit, Gwen has become an invaluable member of the administrative team over the past two decades.
Gwen’s connection to the organization extends beyond her professional role. She is also a Club parent whose family has been impacted by the mission of Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama. Inspired by the opportunities available through the Club, she encouraged her daughters to become involved. Her oldest daughter, Jasmine, volunteered with the Kiwanis Branch during her high school years, while her youngest daughter, Autumn, grew up as a Club member and is now a Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama alumna.
Her story is a powerful example of how the Club’s impact reaches beyond the workplace and into the families and communities we serve.
Milestone anniversaries remind us that great futures are built by dedicated people who invest their time, talents, and hearts into our mission.
We are incredibly grateful to Bradley Craig and Gwen Leslie for their years of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the young people of South Alabama.
Please join us in congratulating Bradley on 30 years and Gwen on 20 years of service to Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama. Their dedication continues to inspire our staff, our members, and our community.