Boys & Girls Clubs Helping Oceanside Kids Go from the Streets to College

SAN DIEGO - March 13, 2013 - PRLog -- OCEANSIDE, CALIF - Since 1952, Boys & Girls Clubs has worked to get Oceanside kids, primarily from low-income families, off the streets and out of trouble by engaging them with fun and constructive academics and activities. They’ve largely succeeded in that mission, and now they’re helping kids reach their dreams and transform themselves into truly successful adults in our community.

A key step is renovating the aged and worn Townsite Club located at 401 County Club Lane in Oceanside, hopefully in time for camp programs this summer.

“The Boys & Girls Clubs of Oceanside has always provided a safe, fun and constructive environment for all kids to spend time during non-school hours,” says CEO Tammy Walz. “Everyone knows us for our fun after-school activities, but what is even more exciting is the hundreds of kids coming to us for tutoring, technology training and other skills to conquer college or a career.”

Boys & Girls Club has become the largest and most effective nonprofit serving kids in Oceanside and North County, serving more than 1,400 children daily. The Club serves all types of kids where they are, and in an inclusive environment. In addition to its main Townsite Club, BGCO operates programs at six school sites in the Oceanside Unified School District and five school sites in the Vista Unified School District.

With that many kids coming to the Boys & Girls Club, it’s no wonder the 40-year-old Townsite location needs a serious overhaul. Renovations are underway, but the Club is asking the North County community for financial help.

“We aren’t asking for an elaborate facility, but we need the community’s support to rebuild the Townsite Club in time for summer camp and for many years to come,” says Walz.

Key renovations to the Townsite Club include:

§  Upgrading electrical infrastructure to support computer, tutoring, digital media and robotics programs.

§  Adding bathrooms for staff.

§  ADA compliance required by code and needed by our disabled kids.

§  Kitchen upgrades that allow for cooking (and healthy eating) programs.

§  Awnings to protect children and staff from the summer sun

§  Heating and insulation during the winter months.

§  Outdoor lighting for security.

So far the Townsite renovation has attracted tremendous support.  A brand new Interactive Media Room, donated by DEI Holdings Inc., was renovated in October 2010.  The room features several of the newest interactive technologies and games to encourage exercise and combat childhood obesity.  The exterior of the building was repainted thanks to a donation by Jim Baird, a painter and Boys & Girls Club alum. Erickson-Hall Construction Company is the builder and Groth Architects, Inc. is the architect.

Boys & Girls Club is seeking $650,000 to cover these renovation costs, and everyone from small families to large corporations can help. Opportunities include:

·        Becoming a major sponsor with all the promotional benefits.

·        Room and equipment dedications are available at several gift levels and include significant recognition.

·        Families can “Buy a Brick” as a legacy for your family that builds the whole community.

The Club accept checks, cash and money order donations, and all gifts are tax deductible(Tax ID 95-1744805). Contact CEO Tammy Walz at (760) 433-8920 for more information on how to give.