The Porter County Community Foundation (PCCF) is contributing $50,000 to the South Haven Boys & Girls Club’s renovation campaign to further their mission and enhance their building and programs.
“Investing in the youth paves the way for a brighter future for our community, and the South Haven Boys & Girls Club provides our youth with resources and support they need to thrive physically, academically and emotionally. The PCCF Board was proud to approve this grant unanimously,” said Carol Hall, PCCF Board Chair.
The renovated facility will house a STEM lab, providing an innovative learning space for scientific exploration. A teen lounge will foster social interaction and mentorship, encouraging positive peer relationships. An art room will ignite creativity, and a full-size gymnasium will facilitate physical fitness and teamwork. A commitment to inclusivity and accessibility is reflected in the addition of a sensory room, ensuring all children, including those with special and/or sensory needs, can participate fully. Other amenities will include a playground, games room and heightened security.
“We have meticulously planned the expansion to meet the increasing demand for our programs and services. The new facility will provide a safe and stimulating environment for the children of South Haven with educational resources, mentorship programs and recreational activities vital for their development,” said Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana’s President and CEO, Michael Jessen.
Growing demand and inadequate facilities spurred the planning process for a renovated Club. The goal of the Club is to bridge the gap and provide equal opportunities for all youth, regardless of their economic background.
The renovations at the Club located at 723 Long Run Road in Valparaiso, IN are scheduled to be completed by Fall 2024 leading to a substantial increase of daily attendance from the current 121 to a projected 185 children.
The PCCF collaborates with community members to support their favorite causes by creating and managing permanent endowment funds that make it possible for generosity to last forever. Since 1996, PCCF has awarded over $37 million in grants and scholarships to organizations and students in our community. To learn more about how you can make a lasting difference for your favorite causes, contact the PCCF at 219-465-0294 or visit the foundation online at PCCF.gives.
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana:
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana has been opening doors to GREAT FUTURES for Porter and Lake County youth for over 60 years. Clubs are open after school and provide great places for youth in grades K-12 to meet friends and have fun while in a safe, supervised environment. Clubs are open during holidays and in the summer. Annual membership is only $40. For information on membership, volunteer opportunities or to make a tax-deductible donation, please contact your local Club by calling (219) 764-2582 or visiting bgcgreaternwi.org.
