Anonymous
Source: Boys & Girls
[Last week], Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme (BGCOP) announced a $3.2 million gift from noted philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, the largest single gift in the organization’s history.
“For over 65 years, we have done whatever it takes to make sure every young person, especially the kids and teens that need us the most, have a safe and nurturing second home at the clubs.” Said Erin Antrim, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme. “This generous gift prepares us to serve not only the next generation, but the generations after that.”
BGCOP will be using the funds to ensure that club services are not affected by downturns in the economy and can be expanded in times of crisis.
“When times are tough, kids need us the most and we will be there” added Antrim.
BGCOP increased services during COVID-19, providing all day services, healthy meal kits, and online learning support serving over 3,400 members in 2021. With young people struggling to recover from years of learning loss, BGCOP is moving to double that number to 7,000.
“MacKenzie Scott has made it her mission to invest in organizations that have a high level of leadership and make the biggest impact – the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme fits that description perfectly” said Ted Schneider, Chair of the Board of Directors. “Her gift, and the incredible support from our community over the last few years has laid a strong foundation for our organization to grow and thrive.”
“The foundation has been laid, now it is time to build,” added Antrim “I know so many in our community are ready to join MacKenzie in making sure our clubs will always be here.”
The Boys & Girls Clubs opened their doors in Oxnard in 1954 and have grown to include three full service clubhouses, four smaller neighborhood clubs, a club within the Ventura County Juvenile Justice Facility and on school campuses across the Ocean View, Rio Elementary, and Hueneme Elementary School Districts.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme do whatever it takes to help kids, families and communities close the opportunity gap, ensuring every young person has access to experiences and opportunities that change their lives for the better.
To learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme and to support kids and teens, please visit bgcop.org. To be part of ensuring the clubs last for generations to come and make a gift, contact Andrew Peake at 805-815-4959 or apeake@bgcop.org
