Club Connection - Newsletter March 2024

CLUB CONNECTION

The Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest NEWSLETTER

FEBRUARY

DONATIONS

SAVE

VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHT

CORPORATE VOLUNTEERS

FEBRUARY BREAK FUN

Just like every year, the Clubs buzzed activities during February vacation week welcomed families from across the comm with open doors from 8am to 6pm registrationsincludedadeliciouslunchtofu fun.

Research shows that attending out-ofprograms like the Boys & Girls Club breakscanbeincrediblybeneficialforkids Itcan boost their academic performance, strengthen social skills, and even help reduce problem behaviors

Our dedicated staff worked tirelessly to create a week packed with engaging activities, from exciting STEM challenges to heart-pumping obstacle courses. Here's a shoutout to our fantastic Clubs for their impressive registration numbers. More than 200 youth accessed Club servicesthroughouttheweek

We're thrilled to see so many children enjoying a fun and enriching experience at the Boys & Girls Club!

SUMMER PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPEN NOW!

Looking for ways to keep your child engaged and having fun this summer? Look no further than BGCMW's summer programs! With locations in Hudson, Marlborough, and Framingham, these programs offer a variety of activities, field trips, and opportunities for makingnewfriends.

From exciting games and creative workshops toeducationaloutingsandoutdooradventures, BGCMW’s summer programs have something foreverychild Whetheryourchildisinterested in arts and crafts, STEM exploration, or simply having fun in a safe and supervised environment, these programs provide a memorableandenrichingsummerexperience Registration is now open, so don't miss out! Secureyourchild'sspottoday!

Visit www.bgcmetrowest.org to learn more andregister.

FITNESS FUN @ THE CLUB

The recent launch of the Spring Triple Play program at the Hudson Clubhouse saw a winning combination – Fitness Bingo! This engagingactivitybroughteveryonetogetherfora joyful and energetic experience, proving h staying active can be fun and interactive. Bu benefitsofparticipatingintheprogramexten beyondtheexcitementofagame.

BGCMW believes in fostering well-roun development in club kids, and physical ac playsacrucialroleinachievingthis.

Regular physical activity promotes stro muscles and bones, improved cardiovas health, and better weight management. positive impact lays a strong foundation overall health and well-being, setting children up forahealthierfuture.

BGCMW’s staff have designed engaging activities that not only entertain but also foster physical and mental well-being, social skills, andconfidence

BHM CLUB ART INSPIRED BY

BASQUIAT

This program provides a supportive environment where kids can interact with peers, build friendships, and cultivate crucial social skills like communication, teamwork, and cooperation. Participating in activities together fosters a sense of belonging and community, boosting selfesteemandconfidence

Mastering new skills through exciting activities andgamesprovidesasenseofaccomplishment, buildingself-esteemandconfidence.

In honor of Black History Month, the Framingham Clubhouse buzzed with creative energy as club members embarked on a special art project. Taking inspiration from the renowned African American artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, they created their own renditions of hisvibrantandpowerfulworks.

This project wasn't just about artistic expression; it was a journey of discovery and celebration Club staff expertly guided the members, introducing them to Basquiat's life, artistic style, and the social commentary woven into his art. This exploration sparked curiosity and ignited a passion for artistic expressionintheyoungminds.

At the Clubs, we believe in the power of creativity to ignite young minds and empower themtoexpressthemselves.

HEARTFELT ACTIVITIES

The recent “after-hours” Valentine’s Day event for Little Hearts event at the Marlborough Clubhousewasasuccesswithover40members participating Younger members got a chance to celebrate Valentine's Day in a special and memorableway.

For one night only, the Clubhouse transformed into a haven for after-dark fun, allowing younger members to experience the thrill of staying late just like the teens The evening was packed with exciting activities designed to spark creativity, encourage teamwork, and foster lasting memories

This special evening offered younger members a chance to stay up late and enjoy exciting games, unleash their creativity with festive face painting, andfuelthefunwithdeliciouspizza.

The Clubs look forward to creating more unforgettable experiences for members in the future!

CONGRATULATIONS

Mark Brayton &

Karen Busa!!

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in our Winter Raffle.

YOUR support is truly valued!

HEALTHY SNACK DONATION

Helen of Troy generously donated a variety of healthy snacks to our Marlborough Clubhouse. The donation consisted of a diverse selection of healthy snack options like popcorn, raisins, Goldfish, and granola bars, as well as some sweettreatssuchasgummypacks,cookies,and RiceKrispytreats.

ThememberswerethrilledandgratefulforHelen of Troy's thoughtful donation. The array of snacks provided a perfect balance between healthy options and indulgent treats, catering to differenttastesandpreferences.Thankyou!

BJ'S TEAMS UP FOR KIDS

BJ's Wholesale Club recently hosted a fantastic team-building event at their Marlborough headquarters, with a creative twist! Employees joined forces to assemble 200 fun and educational art kits for the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest

Each kit included all the materials and instructions needed for two exciting art projects, providing hours of creative exploration for the kidsatBGCMW.Thisthoughtfulinitiativenotonly fostered teamwork among BJ's employees but also delivered a gift that will spark imagination andartisticexpressionforlocalyouth.

Thank you, BJ's, for your generous support and commitment to building a brighter future for our community'schildren!

HUDSON CLUB SCORES BIG WITH EQUIPMENT DONATION

The Boys & Girls Club of Hudson is giving a huge shout-out to Hudson Crew 21 for their incredibly generous donation! Their contribution allowed the Club to purchase a brand new floor cleaning machine, along with two exciting new bumperpooltablesandtwoNokhockeytables

These fantastic additions will enhance the Club's facilities and provide even more engaging activities for our members.Thankyou, Hudson

Crew 21, for helping us create a more fun and functionalspaceforthekids!

SUBARU DONATES SNEAKERS TO FRAMINGHAM CLUB MEMBERS

We're incredibly grateful to Subaru for their generous donation of 215 sneakers to our FraminghamClubhousemembers!

The fun didn't stop there! Subaru also teamed up with the Framingham Keystone Club to sponsor a delicious grilled cheese truck, adding atastytreattotheevent.

It's heartwarming to see companies like Subaru stepping up to make a difference in the community The support and generosity they have shown are invaluable in creating a more vibrantandinclusivespaceforallourmembers.

We are immensely grateful for Subaru's kindnessanddedicationtoenrichingthelivesof thosearoundthem.

Subaru's support goes a long way in enriching the lives of our members. Thank you for your incrediblegenerosity!

YourDonation MakesaReal Difference.

Thegeneroussupportofourdonorsiswhattruly fuels our programs and allows us to make a lasting impact on the lives of these young people.Nomatterthesize,yourdonationmakes adifference.

Herearesomewaysyoucancontribute:

MakeaSecureOnlineDonation:Visitour websiteatwww.bgcmetrowest.orgtodonate quicklyandeasily

BecomeaMonthlyDonor:Yourongoing supportprovidesadependablefoundation forourprograms.

OrganizeaFundraisingEvent:Get creativeandrallyyourcommunitytosupport BGCMW.

In-KindDonations

If you'd prefer to donate specific items, please contact our individual Clubs directly to inquire aboutcurrentneeds.

At BGCMW, we are incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of our donors. Your generosity allows us to create a safe and enrichingspacewherekidscanlearn,grow,and thrive.

Together,wecanmakeadifferenceinthelives of countless children. Donate today and help shape a brighter future for the youth of MetroWest!

VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHT: SHRUTI VERMA

JOIN OUR MONTHLY GIVING NETWORK

THE GREAT FUTURES CLUB

Make your gift a lasting investment by setting up a recurring gift. By setting up a gift on a recurring schedule, charitable giving works on your time and within your budget! Most importantly, it allows you to continually support the needs of our local youth

For more info visit: www.bgcmetrowest.org/donate

Whatisaspecificexperienceyou'vehad volunteeringthathasbeenespecially meaningfultoyou?

TheweeklycookingclubsessionsattheMarlborou Clubhousewereespeciallymeaningfultomebeca IlovesharingmypassionforfoodwithothersIbe cookingshouldbefunbutitcanalsobeeducationa Teachingchildrenabouthealthyingredientswaps gettingtheminvolvedinfoodprepIhopewillreinforce theirdesireformakingsmartfoodchoicesinthefuture.

Canyoushareastoryabouthowyour volunteerworkhasdirectlyhelpedsomeone inneed?

Iknowthatbeingconsistentandshowingupevery week is important The groups I’ve had fortunately wereveryengagedandexcitedaboutwhattheywould createeachweek.Iespeciallylovedhowtheycouldn’t waittosharetheircreationswiththeirfamilybyeither savingsomeoftheirleftoversorbymakinganextra portiontotakehome Providingsimplerecipeswith commoningredientstheycouldfindathomehelpedto showjusthoweasycookingcanbe.

Whatmotivatesyoutovolunteeryourtimeatthe Club?

Thedesiretobepartofacommunitythatvaluesmakinga positiveimpactforothers.

Whathaveyoulearnedorgainedfromyour experiencevolunteeringhere?

Tobeflexibleandkeepthingssimple.Planningisgoodbut thechildrenwilldefinitelydictatethedirectionyou’llendup goingThere’sneveradulldayandIhadsomuchfunwith eachgroup-theiruniquepersonalitiesiswhatIwill remembermost!

It REALLY takes a village. INTERESTEDIN VOLUNTEERING?

If you are an individual who is looking to volunteer, we encourage you to connect with a Club near you to find out what volunteer opportunities they have and where your time can make the biggest impact.

MarlboroughClubhouse:(508)485-4912

HudsonClubhouse:(978)562-9924

FraminghamClubhouse:(508)620-7145

Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community while also gaining valuable experience. By volunteering at one of our Clubhouses, you can help make a positive impact on the lives of young people in the MetroWest. Whether you are interested in mentoring, coaching, or simply lending a helping hand, there are many opportunities available. If you are part of a group or organization that is interested in volunteering, you can contact Laura Terzigni to discuss potential options and opportunities.

Groups who are interested in volunteering can reach out to Laura Terzigni at 508-485-4912 or email laura.terzigni@bgcmetrowest.org

YOU CAN STILL SUPPORT OUR CLUBS BY VISITING THE LINK BELOW OR SCANNING THE QR CODE!

CORPORATE VOLUNTEERS

Your inspiring our being such valuable members of our team!

WWW.BGCMETROWEST.ORG/DONATE

The Sanofi volunteers went above and beyond to connect with the kids They helped create beautiful hand-print flower pots in our art project, and then brought smiles and laughter to the games room with friendly competition in ping pong, knock hockey, Uno, andairhockey

Thank you, Sanofi, for investing your time and talent inourkids!

The Walker team brought their A-game for a lively dodge-ball competition with our Clubhouse members. Dodge-ball is an organizational-wide favorite at the Club,andthisfriendly competitionwasnoexception.

We're so grateful to Walker Development for taking the time to hang out after-school and connect with ourkids!