Valley Boys & Girls Club turns 1

Hundreds of children and members of the community converged on Pau-Wa-Lu Middle School on June 25 to celebrate Boys & Girls Club of Carson Valley's one-year anniversary.

"It's a wonderful program," said Douglas County School District Superintendent Carol Lark. "It's only $15 a year, so every family can afford it."

More than 600 first- through ninth-graders have signed up for the after-school program, which is now located at both Pau-Wa-Lu and Carson Valley middle schools.

"It provides a safe and supervised place for our kids to enjoy," said club founder JoJo Townsell in a previous interview.

Lark pointed out the club emphasizes homework first, and staff members are on hand to act as tutors, though many of the kids prefer the program's other activities.

"I like playing sports outside after my homework is done," said 8-year-old Charlie Meeks.

Seven-year-old Jeffrey Rudow said he likes the art projects.

"They're fun," he said.

Krista Kosmicki, 19, is the art director and a youth development professional at the CVMS branch.

"Arts and crafts are important elements, and they help the kids find their creative sides," she said.

Fellow youth development professional Emily Bacon, 19, said staff members serve as role models.

"We help the kids discover who they are and what kind of choices they want to make in life," she said.

After a barbecue, children and adults filed into the gymnasium. Boys & Girls staff members thanked Robb Lehmann of Big George Ventures for a recent donation.

"This really shows a need for this program," said Hal Hansen, chief professional officer for the Boys & Girls Club of Western Nevada.

The club is now enrolling participants for fall. The annual registration fee is $15 per child.

For an additional $15 a month, transportation is provided from the Valley's elementary schools. Call (775) 443-7642 for more information.