Mark Manser
Perry Unit Director
Short Bio: I’m fairly new to Boys & Girls Club, but so far I have really enjoyed getting to meet so many new club and staff members. I was born and raised in Elgin and I’m proud to continue living in my home town. A few years ago, I moved into a 100 year old house, so I spend a lot of my time making home improvements with my girlfriend. I’m a huge sports fan and closely follow all major Chicago sports teams. Baseball will always be my favorite and I’ve been a lifelong Cubs fan.
What is your favorite thing about working with BGCDT? I love working with all of our students and building personal connections at Perry Elementary. The kids have been amazing and make work fun every single day. I look forward to making strong bonds with every child at my site and being someone they look forward to seeing afterschool. My favorite part of the day is the time I spend interacting and talking with the kids about how their day is going.
What is your favorite memory or moment with the Club over the years? So far my favorite moments have been the times I’ve been able to go outside and play games with the club members. On my first day of club, I got a big wiffle ball game going between kids from all grade levels. It was a great moment and really brought the kids together.
How did you get started with BGCDT? I have 7 years of experience working within afterschool programs and have always hoped to work for the Boys & Girls Club. It’s a nationally recognizable organization that focuses on youth development. I believe in the mission to help students grow and evolve in the hours after class.
If you had to pick one program, activity or event that you enjoy the most at Club, what would it be? I’m a huge fan of our Healthy Habits program. I think it’s great that our members are learning the importance of living a healthy lifestyle at a young age. I also love the fact the BGCDT offers kids a chance to play in organized sports leagues. Right now we’re in flag football season and I look forward to coaching many of our sports teams in the future.
What is your guilty pleasure? Singing Karaoke
What is your favorite TV show and favorite movie? Game of Thrones and The Shawshank Redemption
Who has had the most influence on your work career? Past co-workers and students I’ve worked with during my time in after school programs. I started working with kids fresh out of high school, and have now turned that passion into a career. If it wasn’t for the great staff, children, and parents I worked with, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
What is number one on your bucket list? To see the Chicago Cubs win a (bunch of) World Series championships. Hopefully that starts this year.
