Courtesy photo –
A pair of girls play drums on the lawn of the Boys & Girls Club. The Hawthorne location offers a variety of programs and activities for children.
After a successful summer season, the Boys & Girls Club of Hawthorne is ready to help school age children succeed with help with homework, fun and games as well as making lasting memories.
The program is still fairly new to both parents and children here in Hawthorne, but the core value of making sure children succeed and are cared for is nothing new for the organization.
Director Barb Owens wants Mineral County parents to realize that regardless of cost, “No child will be left behind due to financial hardship.”
Costs are $20 per week (half off for anyone who is in the military). Orientations are held weekly so that children can be shown what different activities and programs are offered.
The clubhouse has an art room, game room and “power hour” which helps children with their homework, leaving time for family time after the children gets home and parents are tired from work.
Programs such as clay sculpting, photography and cooking clubs are offered. A Lego club is in the works as well as robotics.
A child only needs to be five years old up to the age of 18. Teenagers are asked to help mentor the smaller children, which in turn leads to employment within the Boys & Girls Club.
Volunteers are always needed. Currently an idea being thrown around is starting a choir club to get geared up for the annual Hawthorne Parade of Lights which is hosted yearly by the Lions Club.
Games and supplies are also needed.
It is to be emphasized that parents need not worry about the financial burden. If there is an inability to pay, parents can always pull a director to the side and explain their situation with the person.
In order for the club to continue, membership needs to increase. Children are free to choose their activities except they are required to participate in the “Power Hour” unless they do not have homework.
The emphasis on “no child will be denied” due to their inability to pay takes priority over all except that the children who attend the club must have fun. Take time to visit the Boys & Girls Club (located in the old Armory Building). Bring your child. See what activities might interest them.
