When campers walk through our doors each day, they enter a whole new world of opportunities and experiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime. This summer, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County saw record-breaking enrollment of over 400 kids across all of our locations. And thanks to the generosity of the Jules L. Plangere, Jr. Family Foundation, 240 of our campers received full scholarships!
“I Swam in the Deep End!”
What is summer without a pool? The Asbury Park Unit’s 6-lane, 25-yard indoor pool is where all of our campers learn water safety and swimming basics. Our lifeguards and counselors work tirelessly to ensure that every child sees progress in their skills AND has fun. It isn’t unusual for a camper who starts the summer off fearful of the water to proudly report, “I swam in the deep end!” by August. Year after year when asked, the kids say that swim time is their favorite activity at camp.
Fun with a Purpose
It is well known that summer can be a time of learning loss for kids, especially those who have limited access to academic enrichment outside of a school setting. At the Club, we run several programs to keep kids on track academically so that when school rolls around in the fall, they will be prepared and ready to learn.“Summer Brain Gain” is an evidence-based program that is proven to bolster learning during the summer months. Campers engage in fun group projects and themed activities, all rooted in STEM concepts. In addition, throughout the summer, the Club has dedicated tutors on site to work individually with our kids. When surveyed, parents listed the summer academic activities as their favorite offering at the Club.
A Time to Lead
Project L.E.A.D. (Learning, Earning, and Advancing Dreams) is our teen empowerment and employment program. During the summer, program participants are given the opportunity to work as camp counselors, allowing them to develop and hone their leadership skills. These young people often become year-round employees, giving them sustained, valuable work experience.
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