The Federal Way/Auburn Boys and Girls Club held its annual breakfast at Emerald Downs on Tuesday and raised more than $40,000 to support youth in the community.

The annual event featured Seattle Seahawks General Manager John Schneider as the guest speaker, as well as other students who have benefited from their local Boys and Girls Clubs.

Schneider, who is entering his fourth year at the helm of the NFL organization, spoke about the benefits of organizations like the Boys and Girls Club.

Schneider used the example of preparing for the upcoming NFL Draft and the extensive interview process the Seahawks go through regarding the draft-eligible athletes.

“We interview between 400 and 500 college football players,” he said. “And if they have been involved in the Boys and Girls Club, you can really recognize that.”

Schneider, along with head coach Pete Carroll, are doing a lot of things right when it comes to drafting players during their tenure with the Seahawks.

During their three drafts together, Schneider and Carroll have selected stars like Russell Okung, Earl Thomas, Bobby Wagner, Richard Sherman, Kam Chancellor, K.J. Wright and, most notably, quarterback Russell Wilson.

“I have no idea who we are going to draft, yet,” Schneider said with a laugh after a question from the audience. “We are very excited about a lot of things we are doing.”

Schneider also brought an autographed Russell Wilson football that sold for $1,300. A lunch for four at the Seahawks’ practice facility in Renton and a tour of the grounds sold for $2,500.

Last year, retired Seattle Sounders FC goalkeeper Kasey Keller was the guest speaker. Seattle Mariners General Manager Jack Zduriencik was the speaker in 2011.

Tuesday’s breakfast included Decatur head football coach Leon Hatch and Beamer coach Darren McKay and several players from each program.