In the late 1960’s Valparaiso Mayor Bryce Billings had a dream of having a Boys Club in Valparaiso. Through the efforts of Mayor Billings and other volunteers, on October 18, 1971 the Valparaiso Boys Club opened its doors in the basement of the First Presbyterian Church. A year later funds were raised for the purchase of Gardner Grade School, located at the corner of Jefferson and Campbell Streets. The building was refurbished and today is still the home of the Valparaiso Club and its administrative offices.
By proclamation, Mayor Jon Costas has declared October 18th as Boys & Girls Club Day in celebration of their 40th Anniversary. Today there are four club units as well as eight Kidstop units operating in elementary schools, providing before and after school child care. The diversified programs range from athletic leagues to tutoring and from art to computer labs. Chuck Leer, President of the Boys & Girls Clubs has served in that capacity for 35 years and has seen many changes, including the addition of the “Girls” to the Boys Club name. “It’s hard to imagine that over 40,000 members have passed through our doors over the years,” said Leer.
The success of our organization would not be possible without the support of so many. Many have served on the Volunteer Board of Directors providing the vision and whose dedication has contributed to the success of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Porter County. Individuals, businesses, United Way of Porter County, corporations and foundations have enabled our organization to flourish over the years
October 18th is the kickoff of a year-long celebration. The annual Steak & Burger Dinner, to be held on November 14 in Harre Union at Valparaiso University, will be highlighted with a visit from the Boys & Girls Clubs of America President, Roxanne Spillett. The keynote speaker is Father “Monk” Malloy, President Emeritus of Notre Dame, a member of the National Board of Governors of Boys and Girls Clubs of America. For ticket sales and information call (219) 464-7282.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Porter County invites you to help us celebrate our milestone. Be a part of what we are offering the children of Porter County and support our endeavors for affordable and effective afterschool care for the children of Porter County for many years to come. Visit our web site at www.bgcpoco.org for more information. If you are a club alum and wish to share your story, please contact Dawn Duty at 219 464-8272 x 226 or dduty@bgcpoco.org. 