Our Leadership Team
Meet the dynamic team leading the Boys & Girls Club of Benton County’s efforts to ensure every young person has the great future they deserve.
Matt Taliaferro
Chief Executive Officer
Matt joined the BGCBC team as the Chief Executive Officer in April 2019. Matt previously worked at Walmart, where he oversaw marketing activities for the Walmart brand, including partnering with the Walmart Foundation on hunger and disaster relief initiatives. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering from the United States Naval Academy in 1992 and an MBA from Duke University in 2000. Matt is extremely passionate about the work he does at the Club because he loves kids and gets to see first-hand the positive impact the Boys & Girls Club program has on youth.
Kari Fletcher
Chief Operations Officer
Kari began working at BGCBC in 2002 as a Youth Development Coordinator. Since then, she has worked in many roles including Program Manager, Assistant Director, Unit Director, and Athletic Director. She recently received a promotion to Chief Operations Officer, and the Clubs couldn't be luckier! Kari graduated from Oklahoma Wesleyan in 2007 with a degree in Physical Education. She strives to make a positive impact on all the youth we serve and to help them grow and reach their full potential.
Jim Keast
Grants/Donor Relations Manager
Jim began working at BGCBC in the summer of 2022 after years of working in various managerial roles in Kellogg's, Keebler, and Tyson Foods. Jim graduated from Missouri State University and earned an MBA from the University of Dallas. Jim looks forward to his role of helping kids in the Clubs achieve their full potential as productive and responsible citizens.
Ali O'Neill
Community Engagement Manager
Ali holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Arkansas, but her true calling lies in making a lasting, positive impact on the lives of others. This passion became evident in her previous role, where she spearheaded the creation of Bentonville's first municipal animal shelter and established an entirely new department. After successfully launching that facility, Ali took a brief hiatus to focus on her family before joining BGCBC in August 2023 as the Community Engagement Manager. Her favorite aspect of her role is capturing the stories and smiles of BGCBC's young members, witnessing firsthand how the organization is shaping a brighter future for today's youth.