Feel Good Friday

10 Things About L. Robert Payne & Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego

By Lori Walton

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“That’s the way it goes!”

The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego is to inspire and enable youth to achieve academic success, build good character and responsible citizenship, and make healthy lifestyle choices. For nearly 84 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego has been a trusted community resource, serving more than 21,000 youth annually – many from underserved backgrounds. Through outcome-driven programs in academics, character, and wellness, the Club provides a safe, supportive environment with mentorship and enriching activities like STEM, arts, sports, and leadership development. L. Robert (Bob) Payne was a past President and member of the Board of Trustees of Boys and Girls Club of Greater San Diego. Bob currently serves as the Chairman of the Building Committee for the formation of the Club in Encanto.

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#1 L. Robert Payne grew up in National City, California.

#2 Favorite travel destination: Italy and Spain. I would like to visit Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

#3 Hobbies: Golf and the Spanish language.

#4 Favorite movie: “The Bridge over the River Kwai”.

#5 Book Recommendation: “The Boys on the Boat”.

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#6 Something most people don’t know about you: I have never had a cup of coffee.

#7 Giving back is the pay back for all the community and country have allowed me to accomplish.

#8 L. Robert Payne got involved with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego through the annual Golden Man and Boy Gala in the mid 1960’s. I recognized the value of providing a safe facility and a second home for so many young people.

#9 Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego offers a variety of programs including after-school programs, day camps, child development programs, STEM activities, sports, and leadership training.

#10 “An Evening of Changing Lives” Gala will honor Robert Payne. Proceeds from the evening will support Boys & Girls Clubs’ educational, recreational, and character-building programs at 23 community-based sites county wide.

EVENT FGF July 2

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego
“An Evening of Changing Lives” Gala
Saturday, September 13, 2025
Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
www.sdyouth.org

Lori Walton
Lori Walton
My love and appreciation for nonprofit work began in college when I was selected to represent UCLA’s undergraduate service organization. As a student, I didn’t have a lot of money to donate but I quickly learned that I could make an impact by giving my time. All you have to do to make a difference in someone’s life is care. For the last 30 years, San Diego has been my home. During this time, I have served on over 17 boards and chaired 27 fundraisers. No matter how much work I do with nonprofits, I am always amazed at the number of awesome causes and dedicated supporters out there. San Diego definitely has the best weather in the world but what makes San Diego America’s finest city are the people. I feel incredibly lucky and blessed to live in a city that has so many kind and selfless souls who genuinely care about making our community a better place for everyone. As Giving Back Magazine’s Philanthropy Editor, each week, I feature a hero and the causes that are creating a positive difference in our world. Always remember that philanthropy is about more than giving money, it’s about caring enough to help others who are in pain. So, go out there and make every moment count!

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