New Club Aims to Enhance Opportunities, Youth Development, and Community Growth for Local Children and Teens Through After-School and Summer Programs
Crowley, LA – The anticipated opening of the new Randy Prather Boys & Girls Club in Crowley, Louisiana, is steadily advancing, with construction and community preparations well underway. Set to become a central hub for youth development, the facility promises to enhance opportunities for local children and teens in the region.
The new Club, located at 1120 W. Hutchinson, will provide after-school and summer programming for youth aged 6-18. The operations team has been working diligently, with work beginning this week on exterior and interior installations. The facility is expected to be fully operational by late September, barring any unforeseen delays.
As part of its 100th-anniversary celebration, First National Bank of Louisiana (FNB) gave a significant donation towards the establishment of the Randy Prather Boys & Girls Club in Crowley. Mr. Randy Prather, Chairman of the Board at FNB, has been a steadfast supporter, Board Member, and volunteer with the Boys & Girls Clubs for many years. His dedication to the organization and passion for empowering youth have been instrumental in bringing this project to life.
Facility Features and Development
The Randy Prather Boys & Girls Club will feature a multi-functional space designed to accommodate a wide array of activities and programs. The building includes:
Secure Entryway: Enhanced safety with a monitored alarm system and cameras ensuring secure access for members.
COX Innovations Lab: A state-of-the-art space equipped with the latest technology to explore virtual reality, digital programming, and other tech not available in their classrooms and homes, that will prepare them for careers of the future.
Educational and Recreational Areas: Facilities for homework assistance, meal service, and an outdoor area for sports and fitness.
STEAM Programming: Dedicated spaces for creative exploration through the sciences, technology, engineering, arts, and math.
Community Involvement and Support
The community's involvement has been crucial in the progress of this project. Local businesses, philanthropic organizations, and individual donors have shown tremendous support through financial contributions and volunteer efforts. An Advisory Committee successfully generated the necessary funds to support both construction and the future operational needs of the Club.
Recent community meetings have provided opportunities for residents to engage with the project. Feedback from these meetings has been instrumental in refining the Club’s programs and services to better align with the community’s needs.
Anticipated Impact and Future Plans
The Randy Prather Boys & Girls Club is expected to make a substantial impact on Crowley by providing a safe and supportive environment where youth can engage in positive activities and receive valuable guidance. The Club will offer after-school programs, summer camps, and a variety of enrichment activities aimed at fostering academic achievement, leadership skills, and personal growth.
In preparation for the official opening, staff training and program development are in progress. The Club’s leadership team is working with the school district and organizations to maximize the facility’s impact.
Interviews are currently in progress to fill leadership positions at the Club. Those interested in applying can visit www.bgcacadiana.com for more information. Families interested in utilizing Club services for after school programming can fill out the interest form here https://forms.office.com/r/xxYziqyi6x.
Looking Ahead
As the opening date approaches, the Boys & Girls Club is gearing up for a grand opening celebration. Details about the event, including a ribbon-cutting ceremony and community open house, will be announced in the coming weeks. The celebration will mark the culmination of months of hard work and dedication from everyone involved in the project.
"We are excited about the progress and are looking forward to opening our doors," said Rhyan Wheeler, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana’s Chief Executive Officer. "The support we have received from the community has been overwhelming, and we are eager to start offering our programs and services. We believe this Club will become a cornerstone for youth development in Crowley."
For those interested in staying updated on the progress or getting involved, we encourage community members to visit our website www.bgcacadiana.com. As the new facility prepares to welcome its first members, the anticipation and excitement within the community continue to build.
For more information or to contribute to the Randy Prather Boys & Girls Club - Crowley, please visit www.bgcacadiana.com or call337-268-9555.
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana
This year marks the 54th anniversary of Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana. Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana operates under a mission to empower all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. Serving youth in 8 different locations, Boys & Girls Clubs provide opportunities through after school programs and summer camps with activities focusing on Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles & Habits, and Good Character & Leadership.
If interested in supporting the Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcacadiana.com/donate or call 337-268-9555.
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