During a recent visit to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley’s Smyth Clubhouse, it was exciting to see the tremendous progress underway in this extremely important area of the country, and also one of great need.

CEO Max Duganne, COO Mark Washbush and Chief Development Officer Catherine Cook are all doing a wonderful job advancing the mission and creating more opportunities for youth to participate in positive experiences. The level of programming being conducted is a great example of how integrating components of an optimal Club Experience brings each element to life and makes a difference in fulfilling young people’s developmental needs.

Additionally, through expanded and new partnerships, more kids are benefitting from opportunities that otherwise wouldn’t be possible. For example, youth are escorted from a nearby school to the Club, eliminating any challenges that could occur in route. Staff are also highly engaged in planning each day’s program, initiatives, schedules and articulating key points at all-Club assemblies.

In just the past couple of years, the organization has grown to 13 Clubhouses and nearly doubled its operating revenue, representing significant increases in the number of youth served daily as well as throughout the year. Congratulations to Max, Mark and Catherine along with their entire staff and volunteers for the great work being done in Silicon Valley.