Pell City — Richard Curry has been at his new job for about six weeks but hasn’t gotten around to decorating his office, yet.

“Some things can wait,” he said from behind his desk in a small office that’s furnished almost as sparsely as it’s decorated.  But his smile indicated he’s fully aware his office isn’t where the most important stuff happens at the Bridgebuilders Boys & Girls Club of Pell City.

“When a kid comes and asks you to play a game with them, and you can see it’s making their day, you’ve gotta do it.  You still have to take care of business, but there are times when you put it on hold.  At the end of the day, the kids are what we’re here for.”

As the organization’s new local director, the 22-year-old Curry has oversight of the third largest B&GC in central Alabama.  “I never thought at 22 I’d be director of a program like this,” he said, adding that he applied for the post thinking it was temporary job.

“At first, they told me, ‘We’ve got a place for you, but it’s just not Pell City.’  Then a couple of weeks later, I got the call to come here.  I was ecstatic.  I got the call on Tuesday, and I was in the door on Thursday.”

A graduate of Pell City High School and Jacksonville State University, Curry participated in B&GC programs here during his youth, which, he said, gives him a helpful perspective in his role as director.  

“I understand a lot of the rules now.  And being here, you never forget what it’s like to be a kid.”

A total of 90 youngsters currently are enrolled in the club’s summer program, and Curry already is at work to reach next year’s goal of 300.  Applications are now being accepted for this year’s after-school program.  Children ages six through 12 may apply, and they’re eligible to remain in the program through age 18.  

The after-school program will offer youngsters access to the club’s gym, game room and tutoring services.  The cost is $75 for August through December.

“We’re going to offer as much as we can while keeping the cost as low as possible for everyone,” Curry said.  “You can really tell it helps kids.  They find confidence and shelter here, and there’s a real family environment.  It’s great when they don’t want to go home because they’re having so much fun here.”

For more information about after-school or other programs at the B&GC, call 205-814-0405.  “We’re looking for different ways to get the club out there and let people know what we have going on here.  A lot of people don’t know we’re here, and it’s my goal to change that.”