Vlad Gawlikowski, Health, Sports and Fitness Coordinator with the Boys & Girls Club of Palm Beach County stands with the outdoor bike racks donated by The Park and Facilities Catalog
The Park and Facilities Catalog recently donated two outdoor bike racks to the Boys & Girls Club of Palm Beach County.
This worthy cause is making a difference in the lives of young people. There are 13 Boys & Girls Club facilities in the county and they serve more than 8,000 children ages 6-18.
The first Boys' Club was started in 1860 by three women in Hartford, CT. Since then more than 4,000 clubs have been established across the country serving more than 4 million boys and girls.
One of their most famous alumni, Denzel Washington, is a spokesperson for the organization.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County were founded in 1971.
The idea behind the not-for-profit is to promote education, vocation, health leadership and character in a safe and nurturing environment.
According to their website, "The clubs provide more than a safe, fun and constructive alternative to being home alone - they offer a variety of award-winning developmental programs to help youth build skills, self-esteem and values during critical periods of growth."
The clubs are open to all children while they are not in school including after hours, summer, spring, winter holidays and when schools are closed for various reasons during the year, such as teacher's conferences.
In a survey conducted by Louis Harris and Associates, 80% of club alumni "felt good about knowing right from wrong" and 79% said the clubs inspired self-confidence in them.
Studies show that students who are involved in after-school programs away from their home are 43% less likely to drop out of school, 51% less likely to use drugs, 63% less likely to become teen parents and 26% more likely to become a college graduate.
Outdoor bike racks built to withstand harsh weather
The Park and Facilities Catalog donated two outdoor bike racks that organizer Vladimir Gawlikowski said would be installed at their facilities. This helps individuals ride their bikes to the centers and provides a secure place to park their bicycles. Both were large "horseshoe" outdoor bike racks. One was covered with a hardy galvanized coating and the second bicycle parking rack was powder-coated.
"We are honored to be able to help out the Boys & Girls Club in this way," said Caleb Charles, Operations and Customer Service Manager for the commercial site furnishings company. "We know these clubs provide a valuable service for the youth of Palm Beach County and are glad to assist them."
For companies or individuals who are interested in donating to this great organization, go to the Boys & Girls Club website, call 561-683-3287 or email [email protected]. The organization has been designated as a Four Star Charity by Charity Navigator.