The Valley Auto Dealers Association recently donated to Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley to invest in financial aid for kids to attend summer programs.

VADA has donated $240,000 to the organization to provide financial aid to assist families with summer program fees, according to a press release, detailing the generous gift about making summer programming within reach for thousands of families.

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley offers quality, affordable programs for ages 5-18, the release said of year-round programs at 27 clubs valleywide.

This summer there are 20 open clubs for youths to participate in summer programming, including academic enrichment, sports, technology, and fun from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. with a free breakfast and lunch.

“This summer, every Club will also be offering academic enrichment to help stem learning loss. After 10 weeks away from school, friends and mentors, many kids are craving the structure and connection of Clubs and Boys & Girls Clubs offers an affordable opportunity for summer fun,” said Chief Executive Officer of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley Marcia Mintz in a prepared statement.

“We know that more families than ever will need financial aid and thanks to our partners at VADA, we can ensure that no child will be turned away because of funding. Every month, hundreds of eligible families use these limited financial aid dollars.”

VADA has partnered with BGCAZ for years and donated the vans the Clubs use for their special events and field trips, the release said, noting that BGCAZ needed more money this summer to ensure that all kids could enroll in the summer program despite their financial situation.

BGCAZ, which provides a safe environment for young people and staff, has implemented enhanced health, safety and cleaning precautions and protocols at the various clubs in Metro Phoenix, the West Valley, and the East Valley. Space is limited based on each location’s capacity.

Children who exhibit any symptoms such as a fever, or fall into CDC criteria of high risk, will not be permitted to attend the club. Temperature checks are required for staff and members, added the release.

Annual youth membership dues are $30 for ages 6-12 (paid upon registration); weekly summer program fees start at $60 per week in most Phoenix/West Valley clubs and range up to $100 per week in the East Valley. Annual teen membership dues are $15 for ages 13–19  paid upon registration.

While there are no monthly fees for teens, the release noted that financial aid is available to those in need.

For more information: bgcaz.org.