Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale
Overview
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale (BGCS) is a non-profit organization based in Scottsdale, Arizona, that serves youth from kindergarten through twelfth grade. With a history dating back over 70 years, it provides a safe, educational, and supportive environment for over 6,500 children annually across its nine club locations. These locations are spread throughout Scottsdale, North Phoenix, Fountain Hills, the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, and the Hualapai Nation. The organization is known for its comprehensive programs focusing on education, leadership, and personal development.
Recent Developments
BGCS has continued to expand and improve its facilities and programs to better serve its community:
- Tonalea Middle School Branch Opening (October 2024): BGCS announced a new branch opening at Tonalea Middle School. The project involves a $15 million fundraising campaign to revitalize the space, which will feature a STEAM studio, tech lab, performing arts studio, and more. Construction is set to start in May 2025, with a grand opening planned for August 2026.
- Celebrate Youth Gala (March 2024): Celebrating its 70th anniversary, BGCS hosted its annual gala, raising a record $1.1 million to support its youth programs. The event honors significant contributions in supporting BGCS's mission and featured Sydney F. as the 2024 Youth of the Year.
- Roaring Twenties Fundraiser (July 2024): The "Club Casino" fundraiser was held to support BGCS’s mission, offering an evening of glamour in a 1920s-themed casino night aiming to enhance local youth services.
- Cox Innovation Lab Opening (June 2023): A new Cox Innovation Lab was inaugurated at the Hartley & Ruth Barker Branch. This lab, funded by a $35,000 grant from Cox, provides youth with access to cutting-edge technology for expanding their educational pursuits.
- Panda Cares Center of Hope (December 2023): A partnership with Panda Express led to the opening of the latest Panda Cares Center at the Hartley & Ruth Barker Branch, aiming to provide additional resources and support to club members.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 1954 |
| Headquarters | Scottsdale, Arizona, USA |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Non-profit organization |
| Key Investors | Community donors and corporate partners such as Fry’s and Panda Express |
| Industry | Youth Services and Non-Profit Sector |
| Number of Employees | Approximately 280 |
Early History
Founded in 1954, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale began as a single community center dedicated to providing a safe space for youth when school was out. Over the decades, the organization's reach expanded, opening more branches to accommodate a growing number of children in North Phoenix and surrounding areas. The original purpose was to combat community concerns such as juvenile delinquency by offering structured after-school programs focused on enrichment and safety. Significant milestones included the expansion into Native American communities, with programs tailored to cultural specifics, ensuring inclusivity and extensive community service.
Company Profile and Achievements
BGCS operates on a mission to inspire and enable all young people to realize their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. It does this through a structured after-school framework involving:
- Education and Career Programs: Offering programs like homework help, computer labs, and career development workshops.
- Arts and Sports: Access to arts education and sports activities, fostering personal development and physical health.
- Character and Leadership Development: Programs like Youth of the Year, promoting leadership skills and community service.
- Health and Wellness: Encouraging healthy lifestyle choices and providing hot meals, the Clubs aim to support mental and physical well-being.
- Notable Achievements: In 2023, BGCS was recognized as a leading club nationally for its innovative programming and community impact.
Current Operations and Market Position
Currently, BGCS serves approximately 6,500 children annually across nine branches. The organization holds a significant position within the community, acting as a vital resource for educational and personal development outside of school hours. With a strong focus on inclusivity, BGCS embraces community diversity, providing tailored programs that address the specific needs of its demographics. Strategic partnerships with companies like Cox and Panda Express enhance its resource availability. BGCS's approach to community engagement and program delivery sets a benchmark in its sector.
Conclusion
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale remain an essential organization within the Scottsdale youth services landscape. By continuously evolving its programs and facilities, BGCS not only meets the needs of today's youth but also sets future standards for education and personal development. Looking ahead, the organization's strategic initiatives, such as expanding its club locations and partnerships, underscore its ongoing commitment to fostering safe and empowering environments for young people. As it ushers in new projects like the Tonalea Middle School branch, BGCS is poised to enhance its impact, ensuring great futures for generations to come.