Barstow Boys and Girls Club celebrates 10th birthday

BARSTOW • The Boys and Girls Club of Barstow held its “Lights on After School” open house Thursday night, but it may as well have been a 10th birthday party.

The club was decorated with streamers and posters, children were playing games throughout the facility, food was shared and candles were blown out on an enormous cake Thursday. Approximately 50 people turned out to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the club’s opening at the open house. The first children walked through the doors of the club on October 7, 1999.

The club has helped 1,420 kids since 1999, an average of 142 a year, according to the club’s Chief Professional Officer Veronica Ellison. More than 500 children participated in programs at the club in 2008. Ellison has been working at the club since 2006.

“I have seen growth continuing in the club and our programs,” Ellision said. “I think as more people have realized that we’re here, and what he have to offer, the more they come.”

The club offers programs that help kids learn everything from staying healthy to how to operate computers. One of the most popular programs is Project Learn, according to Ellison. Project Learn combines teaching a love of reading, homework help and getting parents and teachers in communication. The program averages 55 kid participants a day.

Club participant Kayla Fleming-Green, 11, said tutoring has helped her go from getting all B’s on her report cards to a mixture of A’s and B’s.

“I like playing with my friends and getting help with my homework so my mom doesn’t get stressed out,” Fleming-Green said. “The adults here know stuff about all of the subjects.”

Although the club focuses much of its attention on scholastic achievement from technology to classroom work, the staff also offers sports, art and diversity programs for kids.

Cheyanne Blocker who has two children — Kenton Anderson, 7, and Leeanna Anderson, 5 — that attend the club said the art and play time offers a nice alternative to the daily regimen of a classroom.

“I really like the club,” Blocker said. “The kids were going to Concordia Christian School, which is a great school, but I prefer them going to Henderson (Elementary School) and the club. They get more of a chance to be artistic and interact with other kids.”

Ellison said that the club is always looking for volunteers and sponsors. Anyone interested in the club can call (760) 255-2422 or visit the club at 1401 Nancy Street for more information.

Contact the writer:
(760) 256-4126 or dheldreth@desertdispatch.com