Boys and Girls Club programming fills the gap between home and school for thousands of local kids through the age of 18, serving on average more than 550 kids per day. Membership is just $25 per year and is open to all students, regardless of incomeIn Nampa, the program is offered not only at the main site on Stampede Drive but also at two elementary schools – Iowa and Willow Creek. At both these sites, even the nominal annual fee is waived thanks to funding from the 21st Century Community Learning Centers program.
The longstanding partnership between the District and the Club helps kids succeed in school and in life as they learn to grow and thrive in a supervised, sustainable, and safe environment.
In the after-school program, kids can do their homework, participate in enrichment activities, get help with their studies, and enjoy a healthy supper.
The Club also provides year-round programming featuring a variety of activities, including sports, arts and crafts, field trips, and a preschool program that helps children be prepared for school and learning.
The partnership between the Club and school district is a model for how community organizations can work together to improve the lives of young people.
“We can’t do what we do without the partnership of the Nampa School District because you need to collaborate for kids to be successful,” said Executive Director Melissa Gentry. “Kids need to be supported outside of school with mentors and positive people in their lives. We are so grateful to have district teachers who provide additional tutoring for kids outside the classroom, and for our partnership that allows students to be transported to our facilities.”
In Their Own Words
A mother at Willow Creek Elementary shared her experience with her 5-year-old son, who had severe separation anxiety when she first enrolled him in the program.
“I was so worried that he would have a difficult time being away from me for such long days. But Ms. Stefanie and the entire staff at the Boys and Girls Club did an incredible job making my son feel like he was in a loving and safe environment.
“When I pick him up, he is always laughing with the other children at the playground (with staff supervision) or he is working on crafts and smiling inside with the other kids and staff members. Every day I ask him what his favorite part of his day was and he says, ‘Boys and Girls Club!’
“I am beyond grateful for the Boys and Girls Club staff members for helping my son build his confidence and teaching him so many incredible qualities.”
How to Volunteer
Volunteers are always welcome at the Club. To explore individual and group opportunities ranging from serving supper to helping with a craft project, call the Club at 208-461-7203. Learn more, including how to sponsor a child, at http://bgcnampa.org.