The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona Enhances Children’s Futures
By Clarissa Robertson
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona provide children and teens in Prescott, Prescott Valley and Chino Valley with an affordable, safe and enriching place to be during out-of-school time. Members have daily access to a broad range of educational and recreational programs designed to drive positive outcomes and reinforce necessary life skills. The Clubs are dedicated to ensuring that our community’s young people have easy access to quality programs and services that will enhance their futures.
Every year, more 600 members between six- and 18-years old benefit from enriching activities in the Clubhouses and in outreach services around the community. Boys & Girls Clubs programs focus on Academic Success, Healthy Choices, Character Development and Leadership, and Fun with a Purpose. They utilize a broad range of educational and recreational activities, such as homework tutoring, arts and crafts, healthy habits activities, games, gardening, field trips, and much more. In addition, in collaboration with Prescott High School, The Boys & Girls Clubs offer the Multimedia Program, which focuses on helping youth build skills and jumpstarts careers in the media field.
Rhonda, a mom of five Club members, said:
“The Boys and Girls Club has been a safe haven for our family. When I enrolled in my children, I wasn’t aware of the life-changing adventure that would come next. I have watched them grow and blossom into mature, responsible beings. With the Club comes a lifetime of endearing moments that leave a lasting impression on their little souls. I watched my oldest daughter who once was shy and withdrawn, soars with confidence. One of my sons found his home in the art room with a mentor who helped my contentious, struggling boy learn compassion and boundaries. My other son found his place in a leadership role, which brought him love and appreciation. My daughter’s favorite part of Club life is Dancing for the Stars, where you will find her embracing life goals. My youngest can be found in the art room as well, but her new passion is the effortless bonds of a sisterhood formed in the Smart Girls Program. The life lessons and Club culture of passion for people drive them to strive for greatness every day.”
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona serve families like Rhonda’s each and every day, at four locations in the quad-cities area. Our programs deliver not just a safe place for kids, but also opportunities for them to learn and grow. As the Clubs continue providing enriching activities and character development experiences through programs, its employees continue to work toward the goal of expanding Clubs operations to serve more children with life-changing opportunities.
For more information about the Clubs visit www.bgccaz.org or follow them on Facebook and Instagram @BGCCAZ.