Ken Barry
Club Director
Boys and Girls Club of Northwest Indiana
Gary, IN USA
“If you’re doing good, you can’t be stopped. Good is always going to win.”
Videos
By Roadtrip NationKen Barry
Milestones
My road in life has been direct.
At 19, I landed a job at a TV station in Abilene, Texas, sparking my passion for media and storytelling.
I found my life's purpose while helping a gang-affiliated youth and realized my calling was in guiding young people.
After burning out from a demanding role, I took a step back to reassess my approach to serving youth.
I was inducted into the Purdue Northwest Society of Innovators in 2020, which affirmed my impact and network.
I transitioned to lead the Gary Indiana Boys and Girls Club, aiming to create an opportunity hub for the community.
I developed JWA Next, focusing on staff development and reflecting on the pivotal role mentors have played in my own journey.
I established the “platinum squad,” integrating my love for media with youth engagement and empowerment.
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Associate's Degree
Biblical Studies
Andersonville Theological Seminary
Biblical Studies
Andersonville Theological Seminary
Certification/License
Fundraising Management
Indiana University Indianapolis
Fundraising Management
Indiana University Indianapolis
Career
Club Director
I guide youth toward leadership and success.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Non-Profit Organizations
Education
Teaching / Mentoring
Day to Day
Every day, my focus is ensuring our young members feel safe and nurtured the moment they step into our club. From overseeing staff and programs to sometimes grabbing a mop to maintain our space, my role spans across ensuring operations run smoothly to fostering a sense of belonging and passion in our kids. It's about more than just managing—it's about leading with heart, ensuring every child knows they matter and have a place here.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for everyone
Take the time to figure out what your true passion is. Explore, move away, and try different things. The exploration process is so important for finding passion, fulfillment, and success. Once you find that thing you're passionate about, chase it and the money and success will follow.
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Peers:
"No, you can't do that. We're not going to help."
Interviewed By
Crossroad Connections
Explore what career opportunities Indiana has to offer
