FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:
Tyrell Scott
Media & Marketing Coordinator
Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Virginia
757-321-7078
tscott@bgcseva.org

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Debbie McGaughey with the Fourth Annual "Debbie Day"

Honoring Over 20 Years of Dedication to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Virginia with a Day of Service and Giving

Virginia Beach, VA — November 11, 2024 — Today, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Virginia proudly hosts the fourth annual "Debbie Day," an event created to honor the life, dedication, and legacy of Debbie McGaughey, a cherished staff member who served the organization for over two decades. Miss Debbie, as she was known, left a lasting impact on generations of young people and their families. Her passing marked a profound loss for the community, but her legacy continues to inspire kindness, service, and generosity among Club members, staff, and families.

Held each year on November 11, Mrs. Debbie's birthday, Debbie Day brings together the entire Boys & Girls Club family to give back to the community in her name. This day of service includes collecting essential items such as canned goods, toiletries, and clothing for families in need, echoing Miss Debbie’s commitment to serving others and supporting those facing hardship. Mrs. Debbie always wanted the best for her Club members, wanting them to succeed in life. In honor of her wishes, we grant scholarships to Club members that want to continue their education after high school. A Club member attending VSU received the first of many scholarships.

“Debbie Day was put together to keep my mom’s legacy alive. It was important to highlight her impact on her community and how she showed us all that it doesn’t take much to impact a young person’s life” said Tanisha McGaughey, Club Staff and daughter of Debbie. "Her kindness and love for kids knew no bounds, and Debbie Day allows us to carry on her legacy, year after year."

After her street was officially renamed in her honor in 2023, this year's event holds special significance as an enduring tribute to the impact she had on so many people's lives. The Boys & Girls Clubs look forward to celebrating the fifth annual Debbie Day next year, with more opportunities to serve and commemorate Miss Debbie’s life. The compassion, dedication, and positive spirit that she embodied are passed on to every child, family, and community member participating in this annual celebration.

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About Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Virginia:

For more than 100 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Virginia (bgcseva.org) has enabled young people most in need to achieve great futures as productive, caring, responsible citizens. Today, the organization serves 7 cities throughout Southampton Roads and provides services to nearly 2,000 youth organization-wide. They provide a safe place, caring adult mentors, fun and friendship, and high-impact youth development programs on a daily basis during critical non-school hours. Club programs promote academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles.