The memory is vivid for Shawn Wilson.
It was one of the first days of the Boys & Girls Club’s experiment with virtual afterschool programs. The improvisation came after the closing of eight facilities throughout southeast Michigan to adhere to Michigan’s social distancing orders issued by Gov. Whitmer in response to the COVID-19 crisis.
Wilson, the non-profit’s president and CEO, was observing the video conferencing session when a mother appeared.
Leaning over her wheelchair-bound child, she had a simple message.
Thank you.
Wilson realized that a virtual component is needed for those unable to attend facilities and the program needs to continue even when society returns to normal.