Boys and Girls Club gets big boost from Vineland

VINELAND - An economic loan from the city will help the Boys and Girls Club of Vineland spruce up their forthcoming youth-focused facility.

City Council recently approved loaning $35,000 in second generation Urban Enterprise Zone funds to the nonprofit organization for building and property improvements at its new facility on Crystal Avenue.

The Youth For Change Center will provide teenagers a number of activities when it opens this year, according to BGCV Executive Director Christopher Volker.

“This will allow the BGVC to have physical office space and to save on lease expense relating to rentals of program service space from third parties allowing for a more efficient operation as well as having its own usable location,” the loan proposal stated.

What’s planned at the new 4,500-square-foot space, according to Volker, is two offices and staff spaces, a “health and lifestyle activities room,” a general homework room, and a kitchen and café for the kids.

Teens tour new Boys & Girls Club site

Downstairs will be a recreation area with ping pong tables and possibly a boxing ring and weights, Volker said.

Outside, on a single acre of land also owned by the organization, will be a community garden and playground, and possibly an arts program, according to Volker.

“We’re trying to make it all teen friendly,” he said.

About 50 kids will be able to utilize the new space once it opens.

Volker said he’s aiming for the end of June, if all goes according to plan with permits.

“If anybody wants to help us out with renovations or funding we'd be glad to receive it,” he half-joked.

LETTER: Boys & Girls Club could use help

The city’s loan will certainly help.

At $35,000, the loan is to be paid back in 15 years at 4 percent interest.

It will help out with roof repairs, updated electrical and plumbing/HVAC and exterior improvements, according to the loan.

“We thought if we took out a loan we could get into the building quicker,” Volker said. “It helps jump start the process.”

And that’s not the only deal the club has gotten recently.

The building itself was donated to the organization by the Bay Atlantic Federal Credit Union in July.

The Boys and Girls Club provides mentorship programs that provide educational, cultural and recreational opportunities to at-risk youth. Kids gain social skills, learn about nutrition and enjoy educational training and exercise opportunities.

Daniel J. Kov; (856) 563-5262; dkov@gannettnj.com