Club Connection - Newsletter August 2023

ADDRESSINGTHESUMMERSLIDE COMBATING THE IMPACT OF SUMMER LEARNING LOSS

Summer learning loss, also known as the " summer slide," refers to the phenomenon where students experience a decline in academic skills and knowledge over the summer break. This loss can have several negative effects on students and the education system as a whole. Research shows that students, especially those from low-income backgrounds, can lose a significant portion of the knowledge they gained during the school year over the summer. On average, students can lose about one to three months' worth of learning in math and reading. Over time, it can accumulate, leading to a substantial gap in academic achievement between students who experience it and those who engage in year-round learning opportunities like attending the Boys & Girls Club.

Teachers often have to spend valuable instructional time at the beginning of each school year re-teaching material that students have forgotten over the summer. This can slow down the pace of new learning and the overall curriculum.

Students who experience summer learning loss may struggle to catch up with their peers, leading to lower grades, reduced confidence, and decreased motivation, ultimately affecting their long-term academic success.

The overall impact of summer learning loss on society is substantial, with potential long-

term economic consequences as a lesseducated workforce may lead to reduced productivity and limited economic growth.

Joining Out-of-School Time Programs like Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest can make a world of difference! Kids who participate in summer learning programs not only maintain their skills but often make gains in critical areas. Let's break barriers and empower young minds with a summer of growth, knowledge, and endless possibilities!

A SUMMER OF SUCCESS: BGCMW CELEBRATES UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS!

As the sun sets on another remarkable summer, the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest is proud to announce the resounding success of our summer program. This season has been a time of boundless joy, exploration, and growth for our members across all Clubhouses.

The Marlborough Clubhouse stood with an impressive peak of 140 members gathered at once in one week. This summer was all about diving into wild encounters and soaring creativity. Special guests, including Animal Craze and Animal Adventures, have brought the wild world to the Clubhouse offering upclose encounters with incredible creatures!

The Hudson Clubhouse witnessed a steady stream of 106 members per week. Each day was a fresh adventure, as children immersed themselves in learning and fun camp activities. Members embarked on exciting field trip adventures like the Discovery Museum From interactive exhibits to handson exploration, our young learners had the opportunity to dive into a world of discovery and curiosity!

In Framingham, the Club impressively had 135 members at once in one week. A cherished tradition across our organization where members are able to take a boat to Georges Island. This favorite field trip never fails to ignite joy and wonder among our members. This experience was a perfect blend of adventure and exploration. Framingham's voyage to Georges Island has undoubtedly become an enduring highlight of the summer program!

What truly defined this summer was the spirit of exploration, the thrill of play, and the unforgettable special guests who graced our Clubhouses. Whether it was the excitement of field trips that opened new horizons, the laughter that echoed through camp games, or the knowledge shared by our special visitors, each moment was a brushstroke on a canvas of cherished memories!

ELEVATING SUMMER ADVENTURES: TWO TRANSFORMATIVE PARTNERSHIPS!

This summer, the BGCMW summer camp program was infused with wonder and growth through two exceptional partnerships that ignited curiosity, sparked imagination, and left indelible imprints on the hearts and minds of our young participants.

shops with hands-on activities, vibrant group discussions, and personal encounters with the world of plants and wildlife, our summer camp participants were engaged in an enlightening experience. Because of this partnership, our members were able to develop a profound understanding of their connection to the environment. As they explored they unlocked the secrets of ecosystems and cultivated a deep appreciation for the intricate web of life that resides within them. Beyond knowledge, these workshops ignited a fire of responsibility within each child, fostering a sense of guardianship for the natural world. The Oars Water Wise program did more than educate; it nurtured a generation of environmental stewards who are equipped to protect and preserve our planet's precious resources.

Our collaboration with the Oars Water Wise program has been a beacon of environmental education that has illuminated our Clubhouses with the brilliance of ecological discovery every year. Through immersive work-

OARS WATER WISE PROGRAM CULTIVATING ECO-CONSCIOUS MINDS

LOVE LANE & CITY TO SADDLE A JOURNEY ON HORSEBACK

The Framingham Clubhouse members embarked on an amazing opportunity that will forever remain etched in their hearts, thanks to the extraordinary partnership between Love Lane and City to Saddle. For this summer, these young adventurers stepped into the "farm-life", engaging in a horseback riding journey that included three hours in the saddle each day This collaboration was a transformative voyage into self-discovery, trust-building, and an unbreakable bond between humans and horses.

Through the guidance of Love Lane and City to Saddle, these campers not only learned to ride but also to communicate, empathize, and form connections beyond words

In an ever-evolving world, the importance of collaboration cannot be overstated. These two partnerships are a testament to the magic that happens when organizations come together with a shared vision. Their efforts go far beyond the summer days. As we bid farewell to the summer, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Oars Water Wise program Love Lane City to Saddle

JOIN

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

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

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

THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE VOLUNTEERS!

CORPORATE VOLUNTEERS

Celebrating the power of volunteerism by extending gratitude to the dedicated volunteer groups who brightened our clubs and enriched our members lives. WE THANK YOU!

Our Marlborough & Hudson Clubhouses had a blast building popsicle stick towers and exploring salt circuits with the Crown Castle volunteers.

From the excitement of 'End Zone Trappers' to the thrill of pinball games and the craft of building birdhouses, our partnership with Pulte Group volunteers was funfilled at the Marlborough Clubhouse.

Robert Half volunteers brought the magic of tie-dye, the thrill of the egg drop, and the excitement of basketball games to our members.

We absolutely cannot have done it without YOU!

VOLUNTEER POLICY CHANGES

Our fall registration for individual volunteers is now open. Interested individuals must complete the following:

an application background check onboarding process prior to volunteering.

We love hosting Corporate Volunteer Groups, but unfortunately, only have room for a select number each year. Additionally, it costs the organization a lot of money to purchase the materials needed to support these volunteer groups. In order to help mitigate some of the challenges that we have been facing, we are instituting a Corporate Engagement Fee for volunteer groups who’s company does not support the Club financially. We are greatly appreciative to the groups who help support the Clubs through larger sponsorships, as well as purchasing the necessary materials for their volunteer groups.

Learn more about both opportunities by visiting:

www.bgcmetrowest.org/volunteer

ANNUAL GALA & AUCTION

We are thrilled to invite you to the upcoming Gala, a special event that brings together MetroWest's influential professionals and serves as a heartfelt celebration of our Club members. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening on Thursday, October 19th at the exquisite Verve Hotel in Natick!

The Gala promises to be an extraordinary affair, featuring an extensive silent auction where you can bid on incredible items and experiences. Indulge in a delectable three-course dinner that will delight your taste buds and enjoy the opportunity to make a meaningful impact through our Fund-A-Need portion.

During the event, we will also have the privilege of recognizing exceptional individuals and organizations through prestigious awards. The Michael C. Sullivan Memorial Award, the Community Partner for Youth Award, and the Alumni Impact Award will be presented, honoring those who have made a significant difference in the lives of our Club members.

We cordially invite you to join us for an evening filled with joy, laughter, and dancing as we come together to support our Clubs and celebrate the remarkable achievements of our members. Your presence and contributions will make a lasting impact on the lives of countless young individuals.

Don't miss this chance to be a part of the Gala, an event that embodies the spirit of community, generosity, and empowerment. Secure your spot now and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable night of celebration and meaningful connections.

See

you on October 19th!

For more information on the Auction & Gala, please visit www.bgcmetrowest.org/gala