As we count down to Thank a Youth Worker Day, we are celebrating the amazing individuals who help shape the Boys & Girls Club of Boone County into the supportive, inspiring place our members love. Today, we’re spotlighting Lauren Matlock-Horton, our talented Financial Administrator, who has been with the Club for nearly five years—and whose impact goes far beyond spreadsheets and budgets.
What inspired you to work with youth?
“I’ve always felt drawn to helping kids grow, learn, and feel seen.”
Lauren’s role may live behind the scenes, but the impact she makes is front and center in everything we do. She’s not only our go-to for all things finance—she’s also the steady hand keeping our operations running smoothly every single day.
The Many Hats She Wears
Most people hear “finance” and think of spreadsheets and budgets—but Lauren’s role goes far beyond that. She coordinates our HR processes, supports staff across all departments, pitches in wherever needed, and ensures the lights stay on and the doors stay open—literally. Whether it’s helping with event planning, jumping in on special projects, or problem-solving on the fly, Lauren does it all with grace and a passion for our mission.
Simply put: the Club couldn’t run without her. Her reliability, creativity, and big-picture thinking make her an irreplaceable part of our team—and our family.
What’s your favorite part of your job?
“I get to be part of something that shapes young lives, even from behind the scenes!”
Lauren plays a vital role in making sure the Club runs smoothly—and she does it all while
A moment that sticks with her:
“One of my favorite memories is getting to see one of our members finally become a staff member, after saying every year they wanted to be one when they grew up!”
In three words, Lauren describes her Club experience as:
Hardwork. Fun. Inspiring.
Outside of work, Lauren enjoys:
Spending time with her family, playing video games, attending concerts, and making art.
Why is the Boys & Girls Club special to Lauren?
“Not every kid has a picture-perfect scene to go home to, and whether we know that or not, we know that they are safe and seen in our Clubs.”
Lauren embodies everything that makes the Boys & Girls Club special. Her commitment, compassion, and countless contributions—many of which happen behind the curtain—are a huge part of what makes our Club a safe, welcoming place for every child who walks through our doors.
From all of us at the Club—thank you, Lauren, for your heart, your hard work, and your commitment to creating a safe, welcoming place for every young person who walks through our doors.