McLeod Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Al Gilpin was named the 2024 Champion For Youth by the Boys & Girls Club of the Pee Dee Area on August 22 during the 19^th Annual Champions Tribute at the FMU Performing Arts Center in Florence.

During his remarks, Dr. Gilpin said, “I really appreciate this honor. I’m humbled by the award. I will tell you with a great deal of humility I appreciate it but it’s really about the children. And I know there are a lot of other people in this community that are more deserving than me.”

Dr. Gilpin also recognized the Boys & Girls Club of the Pee Dee Area for what they do each day for the youth in the community. “They are the true heroes who are saving the lives of children in our community.”

The evening included a tribute video to Dr. Gilpin featuring former patients, his colleagues and friends who offered reflections and congratulatory messages.

The Boys and Girls Club of the Pee Dee selected Dr. Gilpin for this honor for all of the work he does for youth and their families in the community including fishing trips, basketball and football camps, holiday meals, food pantry items and being a Secret Santa.

Dr. Gilpin has provided care to patients at McLeod Children’s Hospital since 2004. Board certified in Orthopedics, he received his medical degree from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in Columbia. He also completed his residency at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine followed by his fellowship at the Shriners Hospital in Greenville, South Carolina. A Navy Veteran, Dr. Gilpin was recently honored as the Best Orthopedic Surgeon in the Morning News’ Best of the Pee Dee contest.

Dr. Gilpin joins 18 previous distinguished Champions For Youth honorees: Carlos Washington (2023), Rick and Susan Goings (2022), Billy Jarrell (2019), Tom Ewart (2018), Rob Colones (2017), Buddy Brand (2016), Dr. Tammy Pawlowski (2015), Boys & Girls Club donors & supporters (2014), East Florence Mission (2013), Rev. Dr. William P. Diggs (2012), Darla Moore (2011), Ralph R. Porter, Jr. (2010), Dr. Allie E. Brooks, Jr. (2009), Richard C. Harrington (2008), Rep. James E. Clyburn (2007), Sen. Hugh K. Leatherman, Sr. (2006), Dr. Luther F. Carter (2005), and Frank Avent (2004).

The annual tribute event supports Boys & Girls Club programs that help thousands of children throughout the Pee Dee grow into productive adults. The Boys & Girls Clubs serve youth every day after school and all day on non-school days and during the summer. Clubs provide a safe place where young people can learn and grow while helping them become productive citizens.