Of the innumerable success stories that have come out of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County over the years, there are those individuals who don’t just rise to greatness, but to heights that shape multiple fields. Dr. Henry Jarecki is an entrepreneur, psychiatrist, producer, academic, philanthropist, and founder of the Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) in the British Virgin Islands. He grew up right here in Asbury Park—a proud member of the Asbury Park Boys Club–and his life is an inspiring testament to the potential that lies within every young person who walks through our doors.
Many successful individuals credit their upbringing and early experiences as critical factors in their achievements. How did the Asbury Park Boys Club shape your values and aspirations?
I had a lot of self-confidence and independence as a young person, traveling between Asbury Park, where my father was a physician in private practice, and New York City, where my mother lived. What the Boys Club provided me was a place to go and relax, be among other young people, and simply have fun. It gave me a break and taught me the importance of friendship and fun, as well as perhaps some good basketball skills!
Your philanthropic efforts span a wide range of important causes, from education and the arts to youth development and refugee advocacy. Could you share some insights into why the Boys & Girls Club continues to hold a special place in your heart?
I have been lucky in my life and feel that it’s important to help others when I can—something that I am pleased to see my children and grandchildren actively doing as well. I try to make the world a little better than it is, as well as help in ways that are meaningful to me, investing in people and organizations that I think will make a difference. I look for good leaders, people in charge who get things done and grow their programs and organizations. For all of these reasons, the Boys & Girls Club is special to me: I remember my time there as a young person; I want to help other children benefit, just as I did; and, in Doug Eagles, you have a wonderful leader.
In recent years, there has been an increased focus on the importance of mentorship and guidance for young people. How did mentors or role models play a part in your own journey, and how do you see the Boys & Girls Club and YEP providing such support to the current generation?
I have learned so much from others in my life and a few special people come to mind—leaders who took me under their wings and mentored me in my work, both in psychiatry and business. My mentors helped me in several respects: they showed me how things worked; they let me make my own way; and, importantly, when I was wrong, they told me the truth. It was hard to hear, but it kept me honest with myself and taught me the importance of always being open to learning and having an open mind. Organizations like YEP and the Boys & Girls Club help by connecting young people to adults who are caring enough to educate and guide them and, if they need to improve, tell them the truth!
