The Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier is expanding its operations into the Buford area in Summer 2023.
According to a press release from the organization, the programming will support after-school and summer programs for 100 kids, with activities focused on academic success, good character and citizenship and healthy lifestyles. The Buford Club will serve children from Kindergarten through 5th grade Monday through Friday in the summer and after school.
The club will be located at the First Baptist Church of Buford, according to Steve Mickens, chief executive officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier. The club will serve surrounding schools including Buford Elementary, Buford Academy and Buford Senior Academy.
The club currently serves Hall and Habersham counties but also has a new site under construction in Forsyth County set to open in 2024. The organization will have 26 sites once construction is completed.
"The Great Futures Campaign for Buford will fund programming to serve Buford City youth in grades K-5, so they develop the skills and relationships they need to reach their full potential," the release reads. "The Buford 100 initiative has been established to fund the first year of Club programs."
The first 100 people to donate $4700 or more will be recognized on permanent donor recognition signage at the club in Buford. The cost to support one child for one year of Boys & Girls Clubs programs is $4700. Visit this link for more information.
The Boys & Girls Club will also host a fundraiser, Denim and Diamonds for Kids, on March 23 at the Bona Allen Event Center in Buford from 6 to 9 p.m. Visit this link for tickets and sponsorship opportunities.
"We know firsthand that kids that come to our after-school program have an opportunity to be in a safe space, have an opportunity to receive tutoring, they have an opportunity to work with some of our counselors as well as our licensed social workers on any mental health issues," Mickens said. "We always say Boys & Girls Clubs save lives."
