John Wellons. President and CEO of Boys & Girls Club of Delaware discussed the iconic youth program, which provides ‘a safe place to learn, grow and have fun.’  We talked about who attends programs through BGC, an almost even mix of boys and girls,  almost half come from families single parent homes with an annual income of less than the $25,000 poverty line, nearly 3,400 members across 44 locations.  He described the benefits these kids receive, nationally 87% of Club kids graduate high school and a quarter finish college, many get the recommended amount of daily physical activity, and over half do better on the state’s standardized tests.  Participation also helps allieviate the ‘Summer slide’ effect of summer on learning retention.  The benefits extend to the community, too, with lower crime and the opportunity of a safe facility before and after school.  Mr. Wellons spoke about the programming they offer, overseen by caring professionals and guided by member requests and enthusiasm, there are sports, homework help, STEM activities, and even behavioral programming, ‘Passport to Manhood’ for the boys, and ‘Smart Moves’ for girls, teaching personal responsibility and healthy choices.  He also discussed the ‘DE STAR for Success’ certified daycare they offer, promoting best practices in early childhood development.  As 80% of the DE Club membership qualifies for public assistance, Mr. Wellons notes that, they provide lunches, snacks, sometimes breakfast and more, to make sure the kids are receiving nutritional meals.  We discussed the cost, membership is only $15 and daycare fee assistance is available.   He asked for support; become a member, volunteer and / or donate to help with the current programming and to allow them to increase services and staffing.   To learn more about Boys & Girls Club of Delaware go to BGCLUBS.ORG