Freddy Williams, a Florida native, became President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Suncoast in 2016, expanding it into one of the nation’s fastest-growing affiliates. Now overseeing both the Suncoast and Tampa Bay clubs, he supports over 3,000 youth across 42 locations in Tampa Bay. Williams also chairs the National Board of Directors for Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Professional Association and in 2024, was named to the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s Power 100 list.
I grew up in Monmouth Beach, Attending the Boys & Girls Club as a teen helped save my life at a time when I was heading in the wrong direction. My Club Director once told me that my outspoken nature could either get me into trouble or help me do a lot of good in the world. I took that advice to heart and have committed myself to making the world a better place, one child at a time.
After graduating from the University of Florida, I felt a deep desire to give back, so I volunteered as a Unit Board Member in Gainesville. At the time, I was working in politics, but transitioned to professional staff at the Boys & Girls Clubs—and I haven’t looked back since.
I loved playing sports, particularly soccer and football. In high school, I was all-district in four sports—track, weightlifting, soccer, and football—and captain of both the soccer and football teams.
My first job was mowing lawns at age 12, which I eventually turned into a lawn care business at 13. I even hired three friends to keep up with demand, built my own trailer from scrap, and learned a lot about managing resources.
When I became the CEO of a multimillion-dollar organization at 27, I was hesitant to share my age. I feared it would define me more than my accomplishments would. Looking back, I realize I missed opportunities to inspire other young professionals. Now, I understand that sharing my journey can help others see what’s possible.
I never thought I could achieve the balance between a successful career and being a fully present parent and husband. But I’ve learned it’s possible, and the journey has been rewarding. Nonprofits are sophisticated businesses. A 501c3 designation is just a tax status; our mission is to create community impact, much like how corporations aim to create shareholder value.
My wife, Melissa, has been my biggest supporter, hands down. She’s a remarkable example of someone who balances a demanding career as a lawyer and businesswoman while being a caring mother, wife and friend. Her ability to juggle all these roles with grace is incredibly inspiring to me. My family, friends, church, board of directors and staff have also been incredible pillars of support.
I’m originally from Panama City, but I always admired Tampa Bay growing up. My wife is a third-generation resident, and after spending some time in Orlando after college, we knew we wanted to raise our family here.
I’m most proud of becoming a husband and a father to our three wonderful kids—Leighton, Bear, and Harper.
Our family works hard and plays hard. We love attending sporting events—especially supporting the c—traveling and enjoying days at the beach.
The biggest item on my bucket list is to travel to all 50 states and all 7 continents with my family. I want to share the world with them and create lasting memories together.
My most surprising hobby or skill is ballroom dancing! I love competing in smooth dances like the Waltz, Viennese Waltz, Tango, and Foxtrot. It’s a great way to challenge myself and have fun.
Something people may not know about me is I’m terrified of snakes! I once put a house up for sale after finding one on the porch. It’s a fear I haven’t quite overcome.
The biggest honor of my life has been having the opportunity to go from being a troubled young man to being a contributing member of society and raising a family. Leading an organization that positively impacts the lives of thousands of young people every day, while also being a family man, is a privilege I don’t take lightly.
I want to develop leaders who in turn inspire and mentor others, creating a ripple effect that spans generations. I also want to demonstrate that being a good business leader doesn’t have to come at the cost of family. Family and work can coexist harmoniously, and often, success in one supports the other.
This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.
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