MILFORD, NH –The Boys & Girls Club of Souhegan Valley has begun construction to expand its facility with a new gym and teen center, and recently installed a ceremonial beam signed by youth members, staff, and board members. This beam will be visible even after the gym is completed, leaving a lasting legacy honoring the youth members the club serves today, and the staff and volunteers who are helping expand the Club to serve more youth members in the future.
“It was exciting having some of our Boys & Girls Club alums back to sign the beam,” stated Susan Taylor, Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Souhegan Valley. “Many of these alums were members 11 years ago when we moved into our current facility, and never thought our dream of a gym would become a reality. Now their names are next to our Early Education members who will grow up using the new gym and teen center.”
A topping-off ceremony was held on May 23rd to raise the ceremonial beam in place with a tree and American flag. John Siemienowicz, building committee chair and Boys & Girls Club of Souhegan Valley board member, told those gathered about the significance of tree. “The tree is associated with the raising of a building's highest beam,” stated Siemienowiz. “This tree symbolizes the celebration of the birth of a new structure and offers good luck to future occupants. We expect that this building will be life-changing for our youth and our community.”
The Boys & Girls Club continues to fundraise to meet its $3 million capital campaign goal. Currently an anonymous donor is matching all donations through June 30th or up to $100,000. “We have started our construction because we are confident the community will step up and support our fundraising efforts,” stated Taylor. “We need the support from all members of the community to make sure this matching opportunity is fully realized and ensure we reach our fundraising goals.” A successful end to the capital campaign will mean that the Club will have the funds needed to fully execute the expansion and facility renovations to increase program impact and security.
For more information about the planned expansion and how you can make a donation visit www.svbgc.org. To learn more about the expansion email Susan Taylor, Executive Director, at staylor@svbgc.org.
For over 20 years, the Boys & Girls Club of Souhegan Valley (the Club) has been in the forefront of youth development in our community with a particular focus on providing opportunities for young people from disadvantaged economic, social, and family circumstances. Its mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to be great today and reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens tomorrow.
Photo Credit: Kevin Salemi
