Boys and Girls Club

Thom Lackie commented that things had changed in Rotary since he was President in 1985.  Back then it was a well oiled machine - now, he thinks, not so much.  

He and Marie are on the Board and Marie is Chair of the Community Service Committee of the Boys and Girls Club.  This is a unique organization - an inclusive, accessible place to develop the potential of youth - "a good place to be".  Latchkey kids, kids from single parent homes, kids from families with lower incomes often become bored and turn to drugs, gain weight, get pregnant or get into trouble.  The Club offers place to go after school, provides transport or supervised walks, healthy snacks, activities such as arts an crafts, exercise, homework help.  The Club runs camps during Christmas and March breaks and over the summer.  Parents have been extremely grateful and the Club has received dozens of testimonials that demonstrate what it means to them and their children.

They are asking the community to join their dream for the children.  The Club is working to become self sustaining.  It was started by the Town but they are reducing their financial support levels over a period of years which means they have to replace that funding.  They are looking for sponsors of programs with costs that range from $1,000.00 to $12,000.00.

Currently they have 50 members who pay $20.00 to join.  This may not seem like much but it can be a lot to some families.  They charge to impress on their members that ther is a value to it and to encourage continued attendance.  The Board members are volunteers but the staff, 2 FT and several PT staff are paid.  The total budget s #256,000.00.  This includes $29,000.00 for rent.

The number of members increases during the school breaks when the Club runs its special camps.  The Club is open after school Tuesday through Friday and Saturday morning.  

Fred thanked Thom and Marie for their presentation and for their commitment to the Club, saying it is groups like this that make Midland a better place.