We are thrilled to announce that Jesslyna, a dynamic leader with 20 years of combined service in youth development and community programming, has joined the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area (BGCAA) team. Her remarkable journey in youth advocacy began at the age of 14 when she was appointed to the City of Eagle Pass Youth Commission. In that role, she helped create, plan, and implement safe, healthy alternative events for youth in her community—a pivotal experience that revealed her true life’s passion.

Jesslyna’s dedication to youth development didn’t stop there. After earning a degree in Recreation Administration from Texas State University, she took on various leadership roles across Texas. She has worked with notable organizations and municipalities, including the Boys and Girls Clubs of Laredo, Manor ISD, the City of Georgetown PARD, the City of Austin PARD, and most recently, Communities In Schools of Central Texas as the Senior Director for Youth Enrichment.

Her impressive credentials include being a TRAPS Leadership Academy Graduate (Class of 2018), a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional, and an active member of TRAPS, NRPA, and ACA. With such vast experience and a deep-rooted passion for helping young people thrive, Jesslyna is sure to make a significant impact on the youth and families we serve here at BGCAA.

Outside of her professional life, Jesslyna enjoys spending time in Southwest Austin with her partner Karlos and their four beloved Chiweenie dogs. In her free time, she loves attending concerts and events with family and friends, hiking, and anything involving water. When she has some alone time, you can find her painting or crafting on her Cricut.

We are excited to welcome Jesslyna and can’t wait to see all the great work she’ll do to support and uplift our Clubs and programs at BGCAA.