The Boys and Girls Club of Palm Springs (BGCPS) received a $25,000 grant to support the organization’s educational and enrichment programming, which is currently offered in-person and virtually. The Coachella Valley Spotlight grant, presented by the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation, is helping sustain the BGCPS’s programs that serve about 1700 kids in grades K-12.
“Through the pandemic, we have continually adapted to reach our members and stay connected to community needs,” said India Braemer, Director of Operations at BGCPS. “This grant is helping us fulfil our mission, even when we’ve had to cancel fundraising events and reinvent some of the work we do.”
Despite recent challenges, the BGCPS has remained focused on its mission to enable and inspire all young people, especially those who need it most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. Each week, members in the Pathfinder’s Children’s Center (grades K-8) and the Mary Bremer Teen Center (grades 9-12) participate in educational experiences that give them opportunities to achieve three priority outcomes – academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles.
“The Boys and Girls Club of Palm Springs is more than after-school care. The nonprofit provides a positive environment that promotes opportunities to try new things so kids can find their distinct success,” said Catharine Reed, Vice President of Charitable Programs for the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation.
Established in 1948, BGCPS was the first Boys and Girls Club in the Coachella Valley. It is the largest after-school program provider in the City of Palm Springs. Beyond homework help, activities in the arts, STEM, and culture offer a diverse and well-balanced experience, allowing kids an opportunity to discover more reasons why they are each unique and extraordinary.
“The Boys and Girls Club of Palm Springs has a track record of providing programs and mentors that encourage good character and citizenship. It’s great that the organization has found ways to continue this vital programming even through the challenges of the pandemic,” said Jerry Upham, General Manager of Gulf California Broadcast Company, which owns and operates KESQ News Channel 3 and KPSP CBS Local 2.
Through the Coachella Valley Spotlight partnership with the H.N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation and News Channel 3, the Boys and Girls Club of Palm Springs was featured on News Channel 3 programming, in public service announcements and on kesq.com throughout October. For more information visit www.bgcps.org or call 760-327-1304. The Boys and Girls Club of Palm Springs is located at 450 S. Sunrise Way, Palm Springs.