Boys and Girls Club Making a Difference

51,300 homework assignments completed. 3,230 games of freeze tag. 32,300 books read by children. 57,000 art projects created. 40,375 board games played. 178,000 pictures colored. 1,140 birthdays celebrated. 565 volunteers. 973 lives enriched.

The numbers are staggering.

At the Boys and Girls Club, of Richland County, success is not only evident in the numbers, but in the stories that can be told by the people who have helped keep the non-profit organization's doors open for nearly 10 years. During that time, the Club has helped bridge a gap for youth who would otherwise be home alone while their parents are working in the afternoon or who simply need a place to go where they can be safe while participating in positive and enriching activities.

This year, there are 120 local children enrolled in the organization with an average of 60 youth participating at the Club daily. "This year we actually had parents lining up as early as 3:00 a.m. to ensure their child got signed up for the programs and activities we offer," said Marissa Schoepp, Board President for the Club.

On Jan 24, the local organization will celebrate its 10th birthday by throwing an oversized birthday party complete with games, cake and appetizers. The event is tentatively set to take place at 5 p.m. at the Club or in the gymnasium of Central School.

"The Club plays a huge role in this community. It is a place where youth can come and be involved with other members while providing them with a safe place to spend their time. Essentially, we are really one big family," Schoepp said.

She became involved in the Club after moving back to the area five years ago and looking for different ways to become active in the community. After picking up her nieces from the Club a number of times, she was impressed by how much they enjoyed their time there. "I would sometimes try to pick them up early to have a little quality time with them and they would tell me I would have to come back because it wasn't time to leave," Schoepp recalled.

The programs are coordinated by Sarah Berndt, Program Coordinator, based on available funding and the materials they have on hand. Some of the programs include arts and crafts, power hour; a time for tutoring and help with homework, games, gym and SMART Moves (Skills Mastery and Resistance Training). This prevention and education program is geared toward addressing problems such as drug and alcohol use. It teaches more than just the importance of saying no by incorporating role playing and discussion that shows youth how to say no.

Many of the youth who participate in the Club strive to become part of the Junior Volunteer Program which allows them to help organize some aspects of the local organization. They can assist with simple tasks such as lining up the children during snack time and other activities and programs.

The Club is funded through state and federal grants and local donations.

Throughout the year a number of fundraising activities take place to help subsidize the organization's needs. The Parade of Trees has been successful for many years through the community's support. This year, Club youth created their own tree made of green painted egg cartons and handmade ornaments. The tree is currently on display at Eagle Country Ford.

On March 15, a dinner and silent and live auction will take place at the Richland County Fair Event Center and will serve as another fundraiser event. Catered by the Ranger, attendees will have the option of eating a chicken fried steak or roast beef dinner. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased at the Club or from any board member. The money that is raised will go into the general fund for staffing and material needs.

Since first opening, the Club has relocated twice and currently is in the Central School. With the growing number of students attending school in the area the Board was worried they may lose their current location but Dr. Daniel Farr, District Superintendant for Sidney Schools, worked with them to help ensure they will be able to stay at their present location.

The Club currently employs three full-time employees and five part-time high school students.

"We strive to inspire and enable all young people to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens. We want them to learn manners, ethics and morals and also find the confidence they need to reach their full potential," Schoepp said.

The cost for an annual membership is $30.