Each day, 400 kids come to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sonoma Valley.
They come to play, of course. But also to learn the things that their
schools are cutting back on: arts, athletics, computer science — we
even help them complete their homework. Each year, the Club serves
35,000 snacks and 7,000 breakfasts. Nourishment isn’t limited to food;
the Club is staffed with smart, caring adults who provide the
instruction and encouragement kids need to learn and grow.
Four
key characteristics define the essence of a Boys & Girls Club. All
are critical in exerting positive impact on the life of a child:
1. Dedicated Youth Facility
The
Boys & Girls Club is a place, an actual neighborhood-based
building, designed solely for youth programs and activities.
2. Open Daily
The
Club is open 50 weeks per year, during the critical after school hours
of 2-7 pm, Monday-Friday, and 7am-7pm during non school days and
summer, when kids have free time and need positive, productive outlets.
3. Professional Staff
The
Club has full-time, trained youth development professionals, providing
positive role models and mentors. Volunteers provide key supplementary
support.
4. Available/Affordable to All Youth
The
Club reaches out to kids who cannot afford, or may lack access to,
other community programs. Dues are low, $90 annual membership.
For all these reasons and more, Boys & Girls Club is truly, "The Positive Place for Kids."
