The Porter County Community Foundation recently contributed $50,000 to the South Haven Boys & Girls Club's renovation campaign.
“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,” said Carol Hall, chair of the foundation board, in a press release. “The PCCF board was proud to approve this grant unanimously.”
The renovation will transform the club's premises at 723 Long Run Road in Valparaiso. The facility will house a STEM lab, a teen lounge, an art room and a full-sized gymnasium. The facility will also have a sensory room to ensure children with special and sensory needs can actively participate. Other amenities include a playground, games room and enhanced security measures.
“We have meticulously planned the expansion to meet the increasing demand for our programs and services,” said Michael Jessen, president and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana. “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.”
Driven by the surge in demand and the inadequacy of current facilities, the renovation seeks to bridge the gap. They aim to offer equal opportunities to all youth, irrespective of their economic backgrounds.
The club's renovations are scheduled for completion by fall 2024. The club expects daily attendance to rise from the existing 121 to an estimated 185 children.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana have supported youth in Porter and Lake counties for over six decades. They cater to students in grades K-12, providing a supervised social and learning environment.
The PCCF operates by partnering with community members and managing permanent endowment funds to support various causes. Since 1996, PCCF has disbursed over $37 million in grants and scholarships to local organizations and students.
