Virtual Learning support in WA Boys & Girls Clubs

Dear Friends!

Nearly 7,000 kids visit their Boys & Girls Clubs throughout WA on a daily basis during the pandemic!  Clubs continue to operate in a safe and responsible manner, ensuring daily health checks, social distancing, cleaning and sanitation, while keeping their doors open to most vulnerable learners, and to children of essential workers throughout Washington state.

In September, Clubs reopened for programming, but because majority of WA's schools are closed, this programming extended into full days of virtual learning, mentor connections, homework support and one-on-one tutoring.  Wherever possible, Clubs invested in digital infrastructure, hired additional staff, and implemented strict small group, cleaning and mask enforcement protocols to ensure compliance with Governor's and health officials' mandates.  

WA Clubs are privately funded through community donations and grants, and your support has been vital to allowing Clubs to keep their programs for those kids most at-risk for significant learning loss due to the pandemic.  Thanks to our community's ongoing investment, we are able to maintain our services, outreach to at-risk youth via Virtual Club programs, provide families with meals and other resources, and even bring a little happiness with meal and gift programs during the holidays.  Clubs are also investing time and effort to connect with teens on the most pressing personal development and social justice issues.  In November, the State Association welcomed nearly 100 teens for a virtual leadership summit, with keynote speakers focused on personal development and racial justice.

Your support allows us to keep this work going, and do whatever it takes to serve those kids who need us most!  We can't wait to go back to running afterschool programs, but until then, we are here for WA's kids and their families.

Katya Miltimore

Executive Director

Boys & Girls Clubs of Washington