Boys & Girls Club Participates In #GivingTuesdayNow on May 5th

In this time of uncertainty, there's a fundamental truth that gives us hope - together we can do extraordinary things. On Tuesday May 5th, the Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks i​s participating in #GivingTuesdayNow, a global day of unity and giving. The Club, even through crisis continues to do whatever it takes to support kids – especially those who need us most. Club professionals are continuing to develop virtual programs, creating interactive, social experiences while also providing fun and educational videos and activity packets for kids that can be found at their BGCO AT HOME webpage. BGCO AT HOME contains downloadable activity packets, community resources and links to social media channels like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram.  

“Now more than ever, because of social distancing, kids need someone to talk to and engage with – someone they trust and have already built a relationship with,” said Patrick Stewart, Director of Operations. “We are continuing to reach out to our families, identifying need – whether it is social, educational, or food related – and we are doing our best to fill any voids for the kids and families who need it most here in our community.”

The Club continues to prepare daily meals from the Branson Unit, distributing them Monday thru Friday, between the hours of 4-5:00 PM. Due to our existing relationships with families living in rural poverty, we have been able to identify and fulfill service gaps due to transportation, resource awareness, or simply fear of the unknown.  

On May 5th, the Club invites you to visit their Facebook page for a LIVE Virtual Experience of the Club at 10:00AM. Throughout the day, you will hear stories and testimonies from the staff, board of directors, volunteers and member families about the services currently offered and what the Club is doing to safely prepare for opening their blue doors once state and local officials give approval for parents to return to work.  

“The Club serves an average of 550 kids every day after school at our three units in Branson, Forsyth, and Reeds Spring. Before COVID-19, kids were receiving homework help, participating in physical activities, communicating with caring, adult mentors, learning about future career opportunities, and enjoying a warm meal – every day at the Club after school,” said Stoney Hays, CEO. “Just imagine what it is like for some of our kids right now. Frankly, many have been in a state of crisis due to abuse and neglect long before COVID-19. The Club is a safe and affordable place where every child can grow, learn, and play and we will be ready to welcome them back with open arms for Summer Membership.”  

Join the #GivingTuesdayNow movement by supporting the Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks on May 5th via Facebook (@bgcozarks) or visit their website: www.bgcozarks.org. Share with your friends and family about why you believe in their work and encourage them to support the Club.

For more information about the Boys & Girls Club of the Ozarks, please contact Stoney Hays, CEO at 417-335-2089, [email protected] or Patrick Stewart, Director of Operations [email protected].