The Boys and Girls Clubs of Lanier will open three of their stand-alone clubs early and with extended hours to support families during virtual learning.
The Walters Club, Downey Club and Teen Center will open August 17 to coincide with the start of virtual learning for Gainesville City Schools, according to Brenda Bohn, Development and Communications Director for BGCL. Hours for these clubs will be Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. until schools begin face-to-face learning.
Bohn said that the clubs normally open to coincide with the first day of school, but typically only offer after-school programs. This year the clubs will have extended hours to assist families whose parents have to work during the day.
“The goal for us opening early is to be another support system for families and kids in the community…for us to help provide that support, help kids learning [and] we’re still going to be providing additional programs that we offer,” said Bohn.
Bohn said that social distancing and cleaning protocols will still be in place at these clubs, just as they were when clubs were open for summer camp in July. Club members are encouraged to wear a mask while at the club and will be divided into small groups to enforce social distancing.
In addition to opening early, Bond said BGCL staff have invested in additional computers and upgraded the Wifi system to help members with their virtual learning.
“We know that kids have experienced significant learning loss during COVID and we want to do everything we can to help and narrow that gap,” said Bohn.
Bohn said that BGCL is still accepting membership applications. More information is on the BGCL website.
