Valley Boys & Girls Club gets $200,000 donation

The effort to start a Boys & Girls Club in the Carson Valley received a tremendous boost this week when Big George Ventures, an environmentally friendly real estate development company, committed $200,000 to the cause. This is the single largest contribution organizers have received so far.

"We cannot thank Big George Ventures enough for their amazing generosity," said JoJo Townsell, board president for the Carson Valley branch. "So many people have been stepping forward to support a Boys & Girls Club in our community. Big George Ventures made a gift that guarantees a Club will become a reality for kids in our area."

"I'm a firm believer that you need to support the community in which you live, work, and breathe," said Ray Sidney, owner of Big George Ventures. "That includes supporting services for local children who need a place to go when they aren't in school."

"We're currently working with the Douglas County School District to formalize an operating agreement," said Hal Hansen, chief professional officer for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Nevada, which includes the Carson Valley Branch. "Our goal is to begin offering programs to local kids this summer, and we hope to make a public announcement soon. This contribution from Big George Ventures was desperately needed, but we still need other community members to step forward with their financial support to ensure the club can be sustained long-term."