The Athens Clarke County government is highlighting the impactful initiatives funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), with a particular focus on the delinquency prevention initiative by the Boys and Girls Club of Athens. This program aims to guide at-risk youth towards positive futures through mentorship, education, and support, addressing the root causes of delinquency.

During a recent discussion, Sterling Gardner, interim president and CEO of the Boys and Girls Club, along with Terry Dunn, director of the delinquency prevention initiative, and Ray Donovan, ARPA project coordinator, provided insights into the program's evolution and goals. Originally inspired by a gang prevention initiative from the early 1990s, the delinquency prevention initiative has shifted its focus to broader delinquency prevention, ensuring that young people feel supported and are steered away from negative influences.

The program gained traction in 2001 when the Athens Clarke County Commission sought unique youth development strategies to deter gang involvement. The Boys and Girls Club responded by proposing the delinquency prevention initiative, which has since expanded its reach into public housing areas, addressing the needs of underserved communities.

ARPA funding has been instrumental in this expansion, allowing the program to establish four satellite offices—Parkview, Nellie B, Broad Acres, and Rock Springs—serving approximately 100 students. This funding has facilitated the development of weekend programming at larger facilities, enhancing the overall impact of the initiative on the community.

The Boys and Girls Club's delinquency prevention initiative exemplifies how targeted funding can create meaningful opportunities for youth, fostering a supportive environment that encourages positive development and reduces the likelihood of delinquency.