Photo by David Trozzo

It’s safe to say that the Boys and Girls Club of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County (BGCAA) wouldn’t be where it is today if not for Peter Summers. Peter had been a member of the BGCAA Board since 2004, becoming President in 2010. His boots-on-the-ground activities increased dramatically in 2013 following the resignation of the organization’s CEO and unsuccessful attempts to locate a satisfactory successor. That’s when he and fellow board member, Pete Ponne, stepped up and took on the additional responsibilities of President and CEO. 

For more than a year, Peter volunteered seven days a week, running all aspects of the main Bates clubhouse plus the five satellite clubhouses located in communities across the county. The organization thrived during this interval, said current Executive Director and CEO, Lisa Lindsey Mondoro, who was hired in 2016. After she was hired, Peter stayed by Lisa’s side, mentoring and teaching her all the ins and outs of the organization. 

From 2013 until 2022, when he retired as Board President, Peter continued supervising and directing the fundraising efforts; updating and improving the facilities; and directing the operations of BGCAA and all its facilities (now six), said Henry (Hank) Libby, former BGCAA Board member and a 2020 Celebration of Philanthropy awardee. Further, whenever and wherever possible, Peter took steps to increase events and reduce the costs of attendance for the children and families served by the BGCAA.

“Peter, supported by an able staff, enabled the BGCAA to survive and benefit the Annapolis community and the families we served,” said Hank. “His efforts on behalf of the club were extensive and took an enormous amount of time each day. Until approximately 2019 it was virtually a full time volunteer  job.”

Two significant accomplishments can be partially credited to Peter’s dedication to the BGCAA and the county, said Lisa. First, Peter worked with a large philanthropic foundation and the county’s Department of Parks and Recreation to add a new multi-purpose athletic field to the Wiley H. Bates Heritage Park. Peter was also involved from the inception with the visioning, planning, and construction process of the Severn Center, a brand new 26,000-square-foot facility, which features a Boys & Girls Club and a Senior Activity Center. Peter was also a generous financial supporter of the BGCAA, and through his example was able to inspire others to donate.

Drew Hudson met Peter when he was hired to manage the BGCAA’s new CEO executive search. Like others, he was immediately impressed by Peter’s dedication and leadership skills.

“Peter’s keen insights into the far-reaching needs of the community and commitment to the individual club members, coupled with his level-headed and calm manner of bringing folks together and reaching consensus amazed me,” said Drew. “He has a level of ‘C-Suite’ expertise that can develop and forecast budgets, a tradesman’s skill set who can work with contractors to ensure cost efficient and effective facilities management, and a true father’s heart as he mentors team members, board peers, and club members.”

Peter was nominated by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Annapolis & Anne Arundel County Inc.

The Boots on the Ground Award is presented to an individual who has gone above and beyond to improve lives and meet community needs through their exceptional efforts, including mobilizing resources for public benefit, leading by example, serving when they are called, advocating, and volunteering for those in our community who need help. Their efforts have a direct, real, tangible impact on our neighbors and our community.