Natchitoches, LA – The Natchitoches Community Improvement Foundation awarded a $10,000 grant to the Natchitoches Boys & Girls Club, which opened its doors to serve community youth on March 21, 2022, in the Ben D. Johnson Auditorium.
This $10,000 grant was the third grant of its value donated to the organization, bringing their total support of the Club to $30,000.
The Natchitoches Community Improvement Foundation’s mission is to deploy resources to improve and enhance recreational, educational opportunities for the youth and citizens of Natchitoches. The grant will go to assist the club in carrying out the mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs, while continuing to fulfill the Ben D. Johnson’s vision, which is to empower the communities’ youth to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible young citizens, by providing a safe, positive place for kids ages 6-18 to learn and thrive. The Community Foundation’s Grant will further aid the Club’s Director, De’Andrea Sanders, on her path to build community in Natchitoches by giving access and opportunities for social and economic success to all Natchitoches residents.
Ms. Sanders, or “Coach De”, as she is known to the kids and her community, stated “We are so grateful for the overwhelming amount of support the Natchitoches community continues to show the club. We are excited to give youth of the city new programming and engage with mentors who can guide their steps and provide them fun learning opportunities to enrich their lives.”
Thank you to the support of the Natchitoches Community Improvement Foundation; the Club will impact youth for years to come.
Pictured from Left to Right:
First Row: Dominique O’Con, Diane Blake Jones, De’Andrea Sanders, Gwen Antee Hardison-Davis
Second Row: Lillie Jones, Elton R. Wade Sr., Helen Obioha, Oswald Taylor Sr.
Third Row: Mildred Joseph, Jerry Walters
This year marks the 52nd anniversary of Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana. Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana operates under a mission to empower all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. Serving youth in 7 different locations, Boys & Girls Clubs provide opportunities through after school programs and summer camps with activities focusing on Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles & Habits, and Good Character & Leadership. An 8th location in New Iberia’s West End will open in Early 2023.
If interested in supporting the Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcacadiana.com/donate or call 337-268-9555.