Our “Meet the Counselor” series highlights the amazing individuals who make a difference at the Boys & Girls Club of Stamford. Meet Alayna Morgan, a Child Development Specialist at the Yerwood Center whose nickname is “the child whisperer”. She began working for the Club shortly after high school and has stepped up to serve as our 2nd-grade Head Counselor.
What inspired you to become a counselor at the Boys and Girls Club?
I was inspired to become a counselor at the Boys and Girls Club due to my passion for working with children. As the first daughter and granddaughter in my family, I learned from my cousins that kids are naturally drawn to me, and I genuinely enjoy being around them.
Tell us a little about your role at the Club?
I serve as the lead instructor for 2nd Grade, so a big part of my job is ensuring our preparedness and organization for each day. As the go-to person for the kids and fellow counselors, my days are always busy multitasking to meet their needs and to ensure that everything runs smoothly.
What do you enjoy most about working with children and youth?
What I enjoy most is the genuine connection I share with the children. Interacting and having fun with them brings me immense joy; I want to be that positive role model counselor that they remember years from now. I also love how every day is different!
What are your favorite BGCS traditions or annual events?
My favorite thing to do at the Club is spa day. It is a really fun day filled with relaxation and bonding, particularly for the girls; we paint nails and try face masks, etc. My other favorite event is Club Carnival, which last year was complete with a food Ferris wheel, games, and prizes.
What is one thing that you wish more people knew about the Club?
A key insight I wish more people knew about the Club is how today’s children, influenced by platforms like TikTok and still impacted by the COVID pandemic, have such different needs. Understanding and engaging with them now requires more time and creativity to capture and maintain their interest. But that is also what I love about my job.