CARBONDALE, Ill. – Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Illinois (BGCSI) is thrilled to announce the launch of a major fundraising campaign to reopen its doors in Carbondale and Marion, with a goal of raising $200,000 during Phase 1 of the campaign. This campaign will be chaired by Glenn Poshard, former Illinois State Senator and U.S. Congressman, who has long been a dedicated advocate for the youth of Carbondale, Marion, and all of Southern Illinois.
BGCSI has secured programming space in Carbondale through a generous partnership with First United Methodist Church, ensuring a central and accessible location for its services once the fundraising is underway. The funds raised will be instrumental in reinstating essential programs for youth and families, including after-school activities, mentoring, and family support services.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to chair this campaign to reopen the doors of the Boys & Girls Clubs. There are families in immediate need of these services in Southern Illinois,” said Poshard. “Our community’s youth deserve a safe and supportive environment where they can thrive, and this campaign is the first step in reestablishing that through the Clubs in Carbondale and Marion.”
Since 2004, thousands of young people have found a safe, enriching place within the walls of the Club. BGCSI’s vision of empowering communities in Southern Illinois, where every youth has the opportunity to thrive, is resolute. Boys & Girls Clubs seek to match youth with mentors, tutors, role models, and friends who support their growth and development, helping them succeed in school, community, and life. BGCSI has a rich history of serving the Carbondale and Marion communities, and the reopening will mark a significant milestone in continuing this legacy.
BGCSI, which halted direct services in June of 2023, has been diligently working behind the scenes to ensure a stronger comeback. During this interim period, the board of directors has focused on improving policies and procedures, engaging external financial management, and enhancing administrative functions to better serve the community upon reopening.
“Reopening the Club is not just about providing services; it’s about rebuilding a community hub that offers hope and opportunity,” said long-standing board member Kathie Fralish. “We are grateful for the support of the First United Methodist Church and everyone who has already shown enthusiasm for reopening the Club.” The organization is calling on local businesses, community members, and philanthropic entities to contribute to this crucial cause.
Donations to the campaign can be made online at www.BGCSI.org or by mailing a check to Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Illinois at P.O. Box 3092, Carbondale, IL 62902. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to reopening our doors and empowering our youth.
For more information on the fundraising campaign or to get involved, please contact Board Chair, Russell Williams rwleadership@gmail.com.
About Boys & Girls Clubs of America
For more than 160 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA.org) has provided a safe place for kids and teens to learn and grow. Clubs offer caring adult mentors, fun and friendship, and high-impact youth development programs on a daily basis during critical non-school hours. Boys & Girls Clubs programming promotes academic success, good character and leadership, and healthy lifestyles. More than 5,200 Clubs serve 3.3 million young people through Club membership and community outreach. Clubs are located in cities, towns, public housing, and on Native lands throughout the country and serve military families in BGCA-affiliated Youth Centers on U.S. military installations worldwide.