Boys & Girls Clubs of Sonoma-Marin Receives $35,000 Grant from Bank of America for Summer Jobs Program
Santa Rosa, CA (July 3, 2024) – Boys & Girls Clubs of Sonoma-Marin is thrilled to announce a $35,000 grant from Bank of America to support the organization's Summer Jobs Program.
Each summer, the program empowers more than 130 young people (ages 12-18) to develop positive personal goals, gain valuable job training, and cultivate a sense of ownership and responsibility within their community. Participants learn essential job skills including application writing, resume building, interviewing techniques, and workplace etiquette. They work alongside camp counselors, facilitating activities, and supervising younger Campers (ages 4-12).
“Our Summer Jobs Program provides a safe and supportive environment where Sonoma County youth can gain valuable leadership skills through real-world work experience," said Jennifer Weiss, Chief Executive Officer of Boys & Girls Clubs of Sonoma-Marin. "This program fosters a sense of community and responsibility, preparing them for future success. We extend our deepest gratitude to Bank of America and all our community partners whose support allows these young people to thrive."
Beyond job skills training, the program provides leadership development opportunities through team-building activities, role modeling, and practical experience working in various areas of the Clubs, such as the front desk, game room, gym, snack shack, and art room. Weekly reflection and learning sessions allow participating teens to discuss their contributions and overall camp experiences, fostering self-awareness, and critical thinking.
“The Summer Jobs program is an early rung on the career ladder for many teens to gain professional experience,” said Jason Foster, Bank of America president, North Bay. “Communities thrive when young people are inspired to pave a path toward a successful future, which is why Bank of America invests into Boys & Girls Club of Sonoma-Marin as they help empower tomorrow’s leaders.”
A Positive Ripple Effect
The Summer Jobs Program isn't just about individual development; it creates a ripple effect of positive change throughout Sonoma County. The primary goals of the Summer Jobs Program are twofold: to offer a fun and engaging experience that the younger Members will remember fondly, and to equip teen participants with the skills and confidence needed for their future careers. By fostering an environment where both groups can learn and grow together, Boys & Girls Clubs of Sonoma-Marin aims to create a lasting positive impact on the community.
The impact of the program has been overwhelmingly positive. For the younger children, having enthusiastic teen mentors makes the summer program more enjoyable and relatable. They look up to their teen mentors and often aspire to join the program themselves when they reach the qualifying age. For the teens, the program has been a transformative experience. Participants from the previous year have reported increased confidence, improved communication skills, and a clearer sense of career direction. Many have expressed a newfound interest in pursuing careers in education, social work, or community service.
"I was really nervous at first, but working with the kids and the coordinators has been amazing,” said 18-year-old Roseland community participant, Maria. “I've learned so much about responsibility and leadership. I can't wait to do it again next summer!"
About Boys & Girls of Sonoma-Marin
Boys & Girls Clubs of Sonoma-Marin opens doors every day at elementary schools, middle schools, affordable housing complexes, our own Clubhouses, and even Juvenile Hall with a mission to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to become caring, productive, responsible adults. At 40 Clubs in 10 North Bay communities, we support nearly 10,000 kids each year. We’ve developed hundreds of unique programs to ensure our kids will grow up to achieve Academic Success, choose Healthy Lifestyles, develop Good Character, and express themselves Creatively. For more information on how the Clubs support the community, visit bgcsonoma-marin.org and follow @bgcsonomamarin on Facebook and Instagram.
Media Contact
Jennifer Weiss, CEO Boys & Girls Clubs of Sonoma-Marin
Email: jweiss@bgcsonoma-marin.org