As I take a moment to reflect on what we have accomplished in 2018 and look forward to 2019, I am humbled by the generosity and commitment of our staff, supporters, board members and volunteers. While we continue to make after-school care accessible to all youth in our community, the need for positive mentors, a safe space to be yourself and stimulating programs during the critical after school hours is greater than ever.An increasing amount of youth battle ongoing social pressures and their families struggle to make ends meet. Whether it be a teen with low-self esteem or child from a broken home I find myself sitting across from, I take solace in that our Clubs ensure every child has a safe and affordable place to go outside of school to reach their full potential and help put youth on a path to a great FUTURE.
Keeping our doors open is imperative. Last year alone, over $560,000 was given out in financial assistance (a 42% increase from the year prior) and over 6,700 kids entered our Clubhouses, gyms, pools, gardens, kitchens, computer labs, camps, music studios, and sports fields.
Since our doors opened 52 years ago, Boys & Girls Clubs of San Dieguito has grown exponentially. Our operating budget has grown from a modest $27,000 to an impactful $6.7 million. One Clubhouse serving 100 members has turned into 7 Clubhouses and 7 specialty programs serving over 6,700 members. Our staff of six people has turned into a staff of over 300.
Alongside such amazing growth comes an immediate and constant need for financial support. Unlike many charities, BGC San Dieguito is not supported by tax dollars. The funds needed to bridge the gap between our modest program fees and the real cost of our programs and services are raised through direct donations from community members like you. Your support is the key to our success and the real reason we have been able to grow to serve so many youth over the years.
We believe every child has what it takes. There are countless stories that exemplify how Boys & Girls Clubs of San Dieguito positively impacts the lives of our youth each and every day, one child at a time.
I am incredibly proud to be a part of an organization whose sole purpose is to provide programs that not only appeal to the youth in our community but inspire and engage them in something bigger than themselves.
As 2019 takes shape, please stop and identify the need surrounding you. Your support can impact our community in ways you never imagined.
For more information on how you can get involved, visit www.bgcsandieguito.org or reach out to me anytime. I’d love to share more or take you on a tour. My direct line is 858-755-1592. I look forward to hearing from you.
Marineke Vandervort
Chief Executive Officer
Boys & Girls Clubs of San Dieguito
Boys & Girls Clubs of San Dieguito