Today we are spotlighting an agency that has been partnering with us since 2020!  Boys & Girls Club of Greater Peoria is a local chapter of the nation-wide Boys & Girls Clubs of America, which provides after-school programs for youth.  They have been serving the community since 1957 and their services are now available in Peoria and Tazewell counties.  

What does the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Peoria provide?

Their mission is to “provide the information, support, and encouragement that parents need to help their children develop optimally.”  Programming aims to provide character development, educational enhancement and career exploration.  Topics also include physical education, healthy habits, and artistic expression.  They focus specifically on neighborhoods with high populations of low-income families and other high-risk demographics in order to make the biggest impact.

The Boys & Girls Clubs Families 2000 program believes in a parent’s ability to help their children learn, grow, and develop. Families with children aged newborn to three are eligible for services such as parenting classes, counseling, home visitations, and developmental screenings. A major goal is preparing children for school and making the parenting journey easier. This program is free of charge. 

In addition to diaper distribution, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Peoria also provides period kits and hygiene products. 

Why does it matter?

When parents and families have access to the resources and education they need to be successful, children thrive.  By breaking social and economic barriers, individuals can achieve more.  

Like many other organizations in the last few years, they struggled to maintain enrollment and adjust service formats during COVID.  They managed successfully though, and continued providing services to those who wanted them throughout the pandemic.  

How can you get involved?

For more information on accessing services, check out their webpage at www.bgcpeoria.org or contact the program director, Tiera Hannah, at (309)685-6007 or thannah@bgcpeoria.org. 

These are also great resources for anyone interested in volunteering or getting involved with the organization!  If you would like to make donations to this organization, they can be made online at: https://bgcpeoria.org/donate/donate-online.