Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) has announced a $24 million grant from Ballmer Group in support of youth development activities across Los Angeles County.

The grant will bolster programming at 18 area Boys & Girls Club organizations serving more than 50,000 young people across 170 facilities, including traditional club sites, school-based sites, and public housing. The funding will support BGCA’s efforts to “do whatever it takes” to help close the opportunity gap and ensure children and teens have access to experiences and opportunities that can change children's lives for the better.

According to BGCA, as young people face unprecedented obstacles to their success and well-being, a lack of access to technology, positive adult role models and guidance, and food insecurity as well as other critical factors, can cause long-term setbacks and trauma.

“With LA County being home to some of the nation’s largest school districts, this investment in its clubs opens the door to even more youth receiving homework help, afterschool meals, mentorship, leadership opportunities, and more to achieve their great futures,” said BGCA president Jim Clark. “We’re excited about the ways this gift will support Boys & Girls Clubs in LA County as they serve their communities, and even more so about the lasting impact it will have on local youth.” 

(Photo credit: Getty Images/Amorn Suriyan)