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Boys & Girls Clubs Become Second Home For Some Members

DENVER (CBS4) - The CBS4 Care 4 Colorado Toy Drive collects toys for children at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Denver. The clubs serve all school age children. Many members are facing tough situations at home and often the club becomes like a second home.

LINK: Care 4 Colorado Toy Drive

Mary, 15, met her best friend at the club.

"We came at the same time," Mary said at the same time as her best friend Leo.

Mary and Leo met 9 years ago when they first started going to the Wilfley Club at the age of 6. They were both new, and they leaned on each other for companionship. Now they've become best friends.

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(credit: CBS)

"I think our friendship has been very important to both of us because we've both grown together and helped each other through problems that we're facing," Leo told CBS4.

Mary and Leo do not go to the same school, so the only time they see each other is at the club.

"Without the Boys and Girls Club, I wouldn't have that support system that I now have. And I know I can rely on Leo 130 percent," Mary said with a giggle.

LINK: Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver

Mary has particularly relied on Leo as both her parents have faced severe health issues. She's had to step up for her family, and he's stepped up for her. The Club and her best friend have been her respite.

"This is like my outlet. This is where I can unwind. With all the tension that's been happening at home, I feel like this is my place to show who I am," Mary explained.

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(credit: CBS)

She shows who she is as president of the Keystone Club, Leo is vice president. The Keystone Club is for members ages 14 to 18. The club focuses on community service projects, academics and career preparation. The club is something that Mary is proud of and it gives her a chance to focus on helping others.

You can support teens like Mary and Leo by making a donation to the CBS4 Care 4 Colorado Toy Drive. Donation bins are set up in participating King Soopers stores, as well as at the CBS4 studio at 1044 Lincoln Street, and the iHeart Radio studios at 4695 South Monaco Street.

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