Lake Charles, LA – January 15th, 2022, marked the one-year anniversary of the Cheniere Energy Club of the Boys & Girls Club opening its doors to the youth of Lake Charles. Mayor Nic Hunter, elected officials, and various representatives of partnerships, as well as community members joined at the Columbus Circle Recreation Center to celebrate the success of the club.
The Cheniere Energy Club was the first expansion by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana into a new community in nearly 20 years. The club serves children ages 6-12, offering after-school and summer activities specializing in programming focused on three main areas - academic success, healthy lifestyles, and good character and citizenship.
In 2019, Cheniere Energy announced a $100,000 donation to establish the Boys & Girls Club in Southwest Louisiana. At the 1-year celebration, representatives presented the 2022 donation of $30,000 to continue their commitment to the communities’ youth.
Amy Miller, Local Government and Community Affairs Supervisor at Cheniere Energy presented the check to Club Director, Nedra Green in support she and her staff. “The staff of the Cheniere Energy Club consistently provided security, comfort, support, and compassion to their students at a time when they needed it most. Cheniere is honored to continue to support that effort in 2022.”
In addition to the City of Lake Charles and Cheniere Energy’s contributions, Chevron made a significant investment of $100,000 that included free membership for all members in the first year. First National Bank, Phillips66, and Enbridge made donations that were instrumental in outfitting the Club by providing technology and program equipment.
Lake Charles went through multiple unforeseen obstacles in 2021, including natural disasters and a global pandemic. Through the year, the club never missed an opportunity to provide a safe environment for the youth to enter and feel welcomed. “The objective when we opened club doors was to make kids feel they are in a warm and safe environment. We made sure to paint the club, our Color Box, full of color to make it bright and cheery, so the kids felt the energy of welcome and warmth as soon as they walked through the door,” Club Director Nedra Green.
Mayor Nic Hunter’s goal for Partners in Parks was to combine the public and private dollar so that they could reach more individuals within the community. “We have something sustainable here” states the mayor. “We are grateful for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana for their dedication, and willingness to adapt the challenges and changes of the last couple years. It has been quite a task. As we work towards rebuilding out city, it is critical we have an eye toward our youth.”
During the event, Lynnwood Creswell, a member of the Executive Board of Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana presented Mayor Nic Hunter with the 2021 Louisiana/Mississippi Area Council C.A.R.E Award (Children Are the Reason for Excellence). The CARE Award is given to an individual or business that provides support and leadership within their local Boys & Girls Club. “We are grateful for the outpouring of support from the community and particularly for the leadership of Mayor Hunter and the critical role he plays as a champion for our youth. His dedication to those who need us most will make a lasting impact in the community for years to come.” Rhyan Wheeler, Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana CEO.
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana
This year marks the 51st anniversary of Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana. Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana operates under a mission to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. Serving 1,0006 children in six different locations, Boys & Girls Clubs provide opportunities through school programs and summer camps with activities focusing on Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles & Habits, and Good Character & Leadership. A seventh location in Natchitoches, Louisiana will open in February 2022.
If interested in supporting the Boys & Girls Club, visit www.bgcacadiana.com/donate or call 337-268-9555.
