Geovanny Ragsdale
President/CEO | | Thank you to our GOLF SPONSORS! | | |
We are grateful for our generous and caring community of donors.
Your support makes a meaningful difference for almost 3,000 members, and we thank you!
February Dollars Received: $17,887.00
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Individual & Affiliate Contributions: $517.00
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Foundation Grants: $2,000.00
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Corporate Giving: $2,600.00
Government Grants: $0
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Special Events: $12770.00
Visit our Ways to Give webpage to view the many opportunities that support our programs, services, and operations.
We appreciate donors who donate online, as it supports our programs more seamlessly.
Consider becoming a volunteer and giving your time and talent to the next generation of leaders at one of our Club locations.
Contact: Kelly Ventimiglia, Chief Philanthropy Officer, k.ventimiglia@bgcwv.org
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Volunteers are needed Monday through Friday to support our members!
Are you interested in a meaningful experience where you can share your knowledge, time, and experience with our club members? Join our volunteer program today!
Currently, we need retired teachers to volunteer and support the training of our newest staff who work directly with the kids.
Our fall programs are running through December 12th. The Club has opportunities for volunteer support from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
For more information, contact us via email at Volunteer@BGCWV.ORG or visit bgcwv.org/volunteer.
If you are interested in a volunteer group project, let us know so we can share special projects needed during other hours of the day.
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Our opportunities right now are permanent, Part-time, and Full-time!
All part-time staff receive Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual, get paid for our nine approved holidays, and have access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) after 90 days with the organization.
Join our team and make a life-long difference in the lives of the youth we serve!
To view the job descriptions and qualifications, visit bgcwv.org/careers
| | Check out this past month's highlights. | | |
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Get ready for smiles, style, and a little bit of magic—Kindergarten Picture Day is here! This special moment captures each child’s bright personality, growing confidence, and unforgettable kindergarten charm.
From big grins to shy giggles, every photo tells a story families will treasure for years to come.
At Reseda Elementary School, excitement is bubbling as our kindergarten students look ahead to their next big adventure—first grade! With proud smiles and newfound confidence, these young learners are ready to take the next step, celebrating all they’ve accomplished this year. From classroom milestones to sweet moments like enjoying chocolate milk with friends, it’s the little memories that make this journey so meaningful
| | Kindergarten Picture Day! | Congratulations, Kinder-Grads! 🎓 | | |
This month, students embarked on an exciting journey around the globe, exploring different countries and cultures through research and creative projects. They learned about unique traditions, foods, and customs, putting thoughtful effort and creativity into their work.
Their hard work came to life at our Multicultural Fair, where YS and Boys & Girls Club students (grades 3–5) proudly showcased their presentation boards in a shared space. One of the highlights of the day was the Mexico group, who led their own program and taught a fun, family-friendly game of Kids Lotería, bringing energy and culture to life for everyone involved.
We wrapped up the celebration with pizza before wishing everyone a joyful and restful Spring Break. We are so proud of our students’ effort, creativity, and enthusiasm!
| | A Creative March at Calabash | | |
March was an exciting and creative month at Calabash! Our members explored a variety of engaging arts and crafts activities that sparked imagination, encouraged self-expression, and added fun to their daily routines. From hands-on projects to creative collaborations, it was wonderful to see members so involved and proud of their work.
We’re also excited to share that our TK/K group officially launched their new specialized Environmental Science program, Nature Club!
Through this program, our youngest members began learning about the importance of caring for the Earth while developing a deeper appreciation for nature. They participated in fun, interactive art and science-based activities that introduced environmental concepts in a meaningful and age-appropriate way.
Overall, March was filled with creativity, learning, and new experiences for our members at Calabash! 🌎✨
| | -Gary M. Thomas Clubhouse- | | |
The Gardening Club provides youth with hands-on learning experiences that promote environmental awareness, responsibility, and teamwork. Through planting, maintaining, and caring for a garden, members learn essential gardening skills, the importance of sustainability, and how plants grow and contribute to our everyday lives.
Designed for students in grades 3rd through 5th, the program creates an engaging and age-appropriate environment where members can explore science and nature in a fun, interactive way. With a small group of approximately 10–15 participants, the club allows for meaningful involvement and individualized support.
What makes this program truly special is its focus on real-world, hands-on learning. Members take ownership of their garden plots while building patience, responsibility, and pride in their work. The program also incorporates elements of nutrition and cultural appreciation by exploring plants from different cultures and how they are used in foods around the world. 🌿
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Our kindergarten students welcomed the season by creating beautiful spring flowers using paint and forks! This fun, hands-on activity gave students the opportunity to strengthen their fine motor skills while expressing their creativity.
Along the way, students also learned about the cycle of the seasons and what helps spring flowers bloom, blending art with science in a meaningful and engaging way.
At Mosk Boys & Girls Club, art and science come together to create fun, hands-on learning experiences for our youngest members! 🌼
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Our members are getting their hands messy and their creativity flowing as they explore the art of sculpting. Through hands-on experiences, they’re discovering how form, texture, and 3D design come together.
From pinch pots to coil building and slab construction, participants are learning foundational clay techniques while strengthening patience, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Each member has the opportunity to create unique individual pieces while also collaborating on group projects—bringing their ideas to life one sculpture at a time. We’re excited to soon showcase their hard work in an upcoming art show!
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This month, our members explored creativity and mindfulness during Art & Wellness Wednesdays, a space designed to support both artistic expression and emotional well-being.
Throughout March, students participated in meaningful, hands-on activities that encouraged them to reflect, create, and connect. One of the highlights was a special project where members created artwork representing who they are thankful for. This activity sparked thoughtful conversations and helped students practice gratitude while expressing their feelings through art.
Members also engaged in a variety of creative projects using drawing, painting, and mixed media to showcase their ideas and individuality. These sessions gave students the opportunity to freely express themselves while building confidence in their creativity. ✨
| | -Woodland Hills Elementary- | | |
Students have the opportunity to choose which clubs they would like to participate in during the extra hour on Tuesdays and Fridays. This month, we’re highlighting the Karaoke Club, led by Coach Bre. This club encourages students to step out of their comfort zones by performing songs in front of their peers, either individually or with friends.
Over the past few weeks, Karaoke Club has grown in popularity, with many students eagerly asking when they can join again. It has become a fun and supportive space where students can express themselves and showcase their talents alongside their peers. 🎶✨
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This month, our teens in the art program had an exciting time experimenting with pipe cleaners, using them to create colorful flower designs. With a variety of colors and minimal materials, they were challenged to think creatively and bring their artistic ideas to life.
The activity encouraged imagination, problem-solving, and artistic expression, allowing members to explore new ways of creating with simple materials. We are proud to highlight the inventive visions and unique creations our teens showcased throughout this program!
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Mr. Martinez has been hosting a program called “Cooking with Mr. M” at the beginning of each month. During these sessions, he teaches students how to prepare healthy snack options in a fun and engaging way. So far, students have learned how to make items such as parfaits and granola bars, with a focus on healthier ingredients and alternatives.
The program has been very well received, with students enjoying both the hands-on experience of creating their snacks and the chance to taste their delicious creations afterward. Not only does it help students build valuable cooking skills, but it also encourages them to make healthier food choices in their everyday lives.
Overall, “Cooking with Mr. M” has been a fun and meaningful program that everyone looks forward to each month! 👨🍳✨
| | Wellness Wednesday: Aroma Blending | | |
As part of our ongoing Wellness Wednesday initiative, Jenna facilitated an engaging session focused on the benefits and practical uses of essential oils. This program is designed to promote self-care, stress management, and healthy coping strategies for our teen members.
Fifteen members participated in this month’s session, where they learned about different oils and their properties, including how certain blends can support relaxation, focus, and overall well-being. Members followed simple recipes and also had the opportunity to create their own personalized blends.
Wellness Wednesday is held every Wednesday and continues to provide a consistent space for youth to slow down, learn new wellness strategies, and practice intentional self-care.
What made this session especially impactful was the hands-on component—members didn’t just learn about wellness concepts, they created something they can take with them and use beyond the program. 💙
| | We have transitioned to MyClubHub for our member management system. Are you a parent looking to enroll your child at the Gary M. Thomas Clubhouse or Canoga Park Teen Center for the summer? Click below to register them now. For LAUSD site, please see the site coordinator on site. | | |
19th Annual Cooper Reading Challenge Again a Great Success
The 19th Annual Cooper Reading Challenge, held again at Barnes & Noble bookstore in Calabasas this past December, provided 260 members of Boys & Girls Club of the West Valley to select books for themselves.
In 2007, the Cooper Reading Challenge was established by the Club’s Chairman Emeritus, Martin Cooper, to inspire children to discover the adventure, imagination, and knowledge that can be found within the pages of a book.
To participate in the Challenge, Club members read an age-appropriate book and either write a report about it or participate in small discussion groups to share their thoughts and reflections. Every child who completes the Challenge is rewarded with a group visit to Barnes & Noble, where they each are given $25 to select books that spark their interest.
The program is underwritten by community members who contribute $25 for each child they would like to support.
According to long-time Club benefactor and local business leader Rickey Gelb, “Marty, thank you very much for making this event so worthy. I hope you continue this program every year. Please know I will always support it.”
Education professional Stuart Selter has said of the program, “Marty, it is my pleasure to support the wonderful Cooper Reading Challenge every year. Your commitment to the children's Education and promoting a love of reading is awesome.”
For many of the Club’s youngest members, this experience is their very first visit to a bookstore—and the first time they are able to choose and own a book of their very own. For older members, it provides an opportunity to deepen their love of reading and explore new genres that may shape their interests, education, and future careers.
Since its initiation in 2007, the Cooper Reading Challenge has provided 3,860 children with the opportunity to select books for themselves or family members.
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The Child Care Resource Center (CCRC) is looking to enroll new families in the San Fernando Valley area
The CCRC can help you pay for childcare for all hours of the days, nights, weekends, or even just a few hours a week. Visit ccrcca.org/apply to view the requirements and to get your application started.
| | Our Corporate Champion program recognizes businesses that support the Club with a year-long contribution that impacts the lives of more than 2,500 young people. Contact us to become a Corporate Champion today! To learn more, click here. | | We would like to thank the Civic Organizations and Foundations who partner with us. Their support provides us with manpower at special events and delivers unique programs to the members at no cost to BGCWV. | | Boys & Girls Club of the West Valley| www.bgcwv.org |(818) 610-1054 | | Boys & Girls Club of the West Valley is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit in the City of Los Angeles, the State of California, and the IRS. Our EIN is 95-4419365. To support the work we do in 2023 you can call 818.610.1054 ext. 2001 or give directly at www.bgcwv.org/donate every gift helps to ensure kids and youth have a safe place to reach their full potential. | | | | |
