During a recent government meeting, representatives from the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Valley presented plans to open a new clubhouse in Kingman, Arizona, marking an exciting development for local youth services. Josh Stein, Vice President of External Affairs, highlighted the organization's extensive history and commitment to providing after-school programming, serving over 12,000 youth annually across 32 locations in Arizona.

The new Kingman clubhouse, which will be the 32nd in the state, is set to occupy a 46,000-square-foot facility leased from the Kingman Regional Medical Center. The projected opening date is mid-December, with plans for holiday events to engage the community. The clubhouse will operate Monday through Thursday from 2:30 PM to 7 PM and on Fridays from 7 AM to 6 PM, catering to both the Kingman Unified School District and local charter schools.

Key programs to be offered include the AZ Youth Force, which provides job training and internships for teens, and a Whole Child Approach in partnership with Terrace Behavioral Health, focusing on mental health support. The organization also aims to address food insecurity, having provided over 786,000 meals last year to youth in need.

The presentation included discussions on governance, funding sources, and community involvement. The local advisory council will play a crucial role in fundraising and advocacy, ensuring the clubhouse meets the specific needs of Kingman’s youth. Council members expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of after-school programs in the community.

As the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Valley prepare for their opening, they anticipate serving approximately 130 youth at a time, with plans to expand as the facility develops. The community's response has been overwhelmingly positive, with local leaders eager to support the initiative and enhance opportunities for Kingman's youth.