NEW YEAR BRINGS NEW LIFE TO BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS PROGRAMS

by Kristen Kerns, Prescott Valley & Chino Valley Unit Director, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona
Almost 600 youth and teens call the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona home each weekday afterschool and during the summer in Prescott, Prescott Valley and now Chino Valley (serving teens).
Programs and activities at the clubs focus on academic success, good character and citizenship and healthy lifestyles. In the fall, two new Unit Directors, Kelli Cooley and Kristen Kerns, were selected to enhance and expand activities and programs at each of the clubs.
Kelli was raised in Prescott and received her degree in parks and recreation management from Northern Arizona University. She began her program director career working at the Prescott YMCA, where she attended as a child. During her career, she has had the opportunity to run several day-care and after-school programs.
Kristen has been with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona for almost four years, focusing on grants, marketing and fundraising events. She has a degree from Arizona State University in interdisciplinary studies, and her connections within the community will be an asset to expanding local programs.
Under the direction of Kelli and Kristen, members can expect to see a larger variety of activities to participate in. Many programs have been designed by Boys & Girls Clubs of America, but a number of unique programs have been developed to incorporate and include in the Prescott community. Local programs will include a mountain biking club, garden club, theater club, hiking club, community service club and even a book club. The options for local programs are endless, and suggestions from members, their families and the community are always welcomed.
There are a variety of ways for community members to get involved with the Boys & Girls Clubs, from sponsoring a child to volunteering time. Volunteers have the opportunity to impact our youth’s lives by spending time in the clubs to help facilitate activities, which can range from homework help to art project, to playing dodgeball, just to name a few. Volunteers help staff create a positive environment for members and often become role models.
If you have an interest in volunteering, or have ideas for a local program, contact Kristen at kkerns@bgccaz.org. For more information on current programs or to make a donation visit bgccaz.org.