$65,500 Grant from California Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs for Innovative Social Recreation Program at Local Boys & Girls Clubs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TULARE COUNTY, August 22nd, 2023 — Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias would like to announce their receipt of a generous $65,500 grant from the California Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs. This grant will enable the launch of the innovative Social Recreation Program, catering to youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities, fostering inclusivity, friendships, and mentorship within the Club.

The Social Recreation Program is aligned with the Club's mission to empower all young individuals, especially those facing challenges, to realize their fullest potential as responsible, productive, caring members of society. By providing a safe and supportive environment, this initiative aims to make a significant impact on the lives of children and adolescents aged 6-18.

This program will be seamlessly integrated into seven Boys & Girls Clubs across Tulare County, including Tulare, Visalia, Ivanhoe, Woodlake, Exeter, Farmersville, and Strathmore. Notably, five of these communities have populations of less than 10,000, and limited options for social and recreational activities. The Social Recreation Program will bridge this gap, offering diverse activities such as sports, fitness, art, education, character development, and more. These activities will be underpinned by the core elements of positive youth development: a safe positive environment, fun and belonging, recognition, opportunities and expectations, and supportive relationships.

One of the unique strengths of this program is its emphasis on integration, where children referred by the Central Valley Regional Center will participate alongside other Club members. This integration fosters a sense of belonging and acceptance, contributing to a nurturing environment where friendships and mutual learning can flourish. The Club's commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its staff, who will receive specialized training to work effectively with youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

"We are profoundly grateful for the California Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs' generous grant, which enables us to implement this crucial Social Recreation Program," stated Galen Quenzer, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias. "Our goal is to create a supportive community where all youth can thrive, and this grant takes us a significant step closer to achieving that vision."

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias firmly believes that the Social Recreation Program will provide a safe haven for youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them forge meaningful relationships, explore their interests, and develop vital life skills. With the support of the California Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs, this initiative will undoubtedly contribute to building a brighter and more inclusive future for the youth of Tulare County.

Interested in having your child attend the Boys & Girls Club? Find a Club near you at bgcsequoias.org/ourclubs and get registered at bgcsequoias.org/registration. Memberships cost only $15 per year. 

About Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias is focused on helping all young people, especially those who need us most, become responsible, caring and productive members of society. Boys & Girls Clubs were established in Tulare County in the 1990’s when Exeter and Visalia community leaders responded to the need for a positive place for local youth to spend free time after school. Today, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sequoias provides services at 7 Clubs throughout Tulare County. Clubs provide a wide span of activities for local youth, varying from STEM to sports. www.bgcsequoias.org 

For More Information

Please contact: Leticia Betancourt | (559) 592-4074 | leticia.betancourt@bgcsequoias.org