Geovanny Ragsdale, President/CEO, shares a monthly message. | | |
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| | We have transitioned to MyClubHub for our member management system. Are you a parent of a member or looking into our programs for the upcoming Thanksgiving Break and Winter Break? Click below to learn more and join our member community at one of our 13 sites across the West Valley. | | Thank You for Joining Us at
Celebrate the Power of Words! | | |
We proudly hosted our 3rd Annual Cooper Literacy Event on November 13th, celebrating the impact of the Cooper Literacy Program and the power of reading in shaping confident, curious young learners across the West Valley.
The evening featured meaningful reflections from program founder and Chair Emeritus Martin M. Cooper, acknowledgments from our community leaders, and an inspiring keynote from Fred Melamed (Barry, A Serious Man, New Girl). His thoughtful storytelling and warmth brought the heart of the night to life.
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Guests enjoyed a reception with music, hors d’oeuvres, and great company before moving into the theater for a program highlighting the importance of literacy and the incredible achievements of the youth we serve. Thanks to our supporters, the Cooper Literacy Program continues to ensure that hundreds of youth participate in the Cooper Reading Challenge, visit a local library, host book distributions, and offer literacy-building experiences to Club members.
A special thank-you as well to Kathleen Sterling of Valley News Group for sharing her heartfelt message about the value of reading in our lives; to Don Weissman, our exceptional emcee, for guiding the evening with such care; and to Larissa Martin for sharing her BGCWV story and her accomplishments as a current UC Berkeley student—an inspiring reminder of why this work matters.
A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who attended, sponsored, volunteered, or helped make the evening possible. Your support strengthens our mission and ensures that young readers in our community have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.
We are grateful for your partnership — and we can’t wait to see you next year!
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We are grateful for our generous and caring community of donors.
Your support makes a meaningful difference for over 3,000 members, and we thank you!
September Dollars Received: $457,326.00
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Individual & Affiliate Contributions: $2,847
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Foundation Grants: $25,000
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Corporate Giving: $15,200
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Government Grants: $407,143
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Special Events: $7,136
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 permanent 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: | | |
This week in our Big Buddy–Little Buddy program, our 4th grade leaders partnered with our Kindergarten members for a meaningful and fun afternoon of learning and creativity. Big Buddies not only helped their Little Buddies design and make friendship bracelets, but they also sat with them to practice early reading skills.
Our 4th graders demonstrated patience, encouragement, and leadership as they guided their buddies through sounding out words and exploring books together. Kinders gained confidence and felt supported while also enjoying hands-on crafting with someone they look up to.
We are proud to see our members building friendships, growing academically, and strengthening our community through these shared activities!
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Big Buddy, Little Buddy Spotlight | | |
As we wrapped up the last warm days of fall, our members enjoyed a sweet surprise — Ice Cream Day at Boys & Girls Club! This treat was a fun way to celebrate their hard work, positive behavior, and the great energy they’ve brought to the program this season. Members spent the afternoon choosing their favorite flavors, relaxing with friends, and enjoying the sunshine before the colder weather arrives. The yard was filled with laughter, big smiles, and the kind of moments that remind us why these little celebrations matter.
Ice Cream Day wasn’t just about dessert; it was about building community, recognizing the kindness and leadership our members show each day, and creating warm memories as we close out the fall season. We appreciate our staff and families for continuing to support these special experiences that help our club feel like a second home. We look forward to more fun moments and celebrations in the weeks ahead.
| | -Gary M. Thomas Clubhouse- | | Learning Center and Game Room Makeover | | |
The Gary M. Thomas Clubhouse recently completed a fresh makeover of its Game Room, transforming it into a more inviting, engaging, and safe space for youth. The redesign includes updated furnishings, new games, and flexible zones for different types of play — from table games like foosball or ping-pong to more relaxing, “chill” corners for quieter activities.
We’re also thrilled to announce that our Learning Center has a brand-new look! It’s now brighter, welcoming, and organized. With updated furniture, flexible workspaces, and study corners, the space encourages learning, collaboration, and quiet reflection. This makeover empowers kids to focus, build confidence in schoolwork, and discover the joy of learning.
We are thankful to the Sherwood Cares Foundation and other donors who helped us match their gift to provide these warm spaces for our youth.
| | The purpose of this program was to promote reading. Our target audience was the TK-5th-grade students. Those who participated in this program received a Panda Express card for a free meal and a bookmark. This program ran from the end of October to the last week of November. To celebrate students who have been reading, we had a ceremony to highlight students' participation. | | -Justice Street Elementary- | | |
At Justice Street, we are currently highlighting Home for the Holidays, a virtual event taking place on December 17 from 6:30–8:30 pm.
This month, we hosted talent show auditions, which had great engagement and excitement from our members. Because of the high interest, we added practice time to our weekly schedule, and the members have been working hard to prepare for their performances for the event. It has been great to see them cheer each other on and happily act as the audience during practices. Some members have even asked to stay later so they don’t miss out on the practice time.
The energy has been high, and members have been collaborating, showing responsibility, and staying committed to their routines. Their teamwork and dedication have been a positive interaction this month.
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Every Tuesday, Mosk Boys & Girls Club hosts Builders Club. This is a chance for members to learn about bringing their design ideas to life–in 3D!
Atticus has been with Mosk Boys & Girls Club for two years. Last week, he created his own model airplane out of LEGO. Members build confidence in themselves and their abilities through team work and project showcases.
| | Sports & Recreation: Flag Football | | |
Our Flag Football program is off to an amazing start! This season, we have 12 dedicated participants from Reseda Elementary giving it their all, learning teamwork, building confidence, and having a great time on the field.
Players have been practicing hard throughout the week, developing their skills and supporting one another every step of the way. Their commitment truly shows when game day arrives every Saturday, where they bring energy, sportsmanship, and big smiles to every match.
A huge shoutout to our young athletes for their enthusiasm, effort, and teamwork. And our Lead Coach Dreydon, who is making an impact on each member of the team.
| | Celebrating Fall and Football Wins | | |
As we settle into the cooler fall season, our Serrania members have been busy learning, celebrating, and showing amazing teamwork. This month, our team has focused on embracing the spirit of fall, gratitude, creativity, and community while also competing proudly in our first flag football tournament.
Our Serrania football team started the season strong with two exciting wins in our very first tournament. The players have been practicing hard and demonstrating great sportsmanship, respect, and dedication. We are incredibly proud of how they represent our site and cheer each other on.
Alongside sports, we’ve been celebrating the beginning of fall through hands-on seasonal programming. Members have been participating in activities centered around gratitude, team-building, fall-themed crafts, and exploring what this new season brings. The cooler weather has given us the perfect opportunity to slow down, reflect, and enjoy meaningful moments together.
| | Home for the Holidays Virtual Talent Show | | |
This month, our members have been busy participating in auditions for our upcoming Virtual Talent Show on December 17th! Youth grouped up based on the talents they were excited to showcase. Everything from dance routines and skits to vocal performances and artwork.
The auditions were open to all ages and offered our members a fun opportunity to express themselves and highlight talents they may not always get to share. Their creativity and enthusiasm have inspired us to plan a live, in-person talent show that we hope to host before Winter Break!
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This month, our members had a chance to take a tour of the California State University, Northridge campus, led by our very own Coach Daniela, an alumnus of the university. Members were able to get a feel for the campus environment and were able to explore its academic resources. After experiencing the campus firsthand, our members felt more confident about pursuing college, leaving a positive first impression on what to expect in their future of education. | | | Keystone Giving was a day to bring members together in a fun, welcoming environment where they can bond, connect, and meet other Keystone members from different schools. The students decorated the room to make it welcoming, shared food, and participated in fun group activities, including karaoke and games. | | The Chatsworth Charter High School dance team has been excelling this year, consistently delivering energetic and captivating performances at every football game's halftime show. Their dedication is evident in the countless hours they spend practicing and perfecting their routines, always striving to bring something fresh and exciting to the crowd. Beyond their impressive choreography, the team has also shown remarkable creativity in designing vibrant, eye-catching outfits that enhance every performance. Under the committed and inspiring leadership of their dance coach, Jesus, the dancers have continued to grow in skill, confidence, and teamwork. Their hard work, passion, and spirit make them a standout group on campus and a source of pride for the entire school community. | | |
Cleveland High School has kicked off the art program with a Decoden activity. Decoden is utilizing charms and decorative glue to customize various items such as mirrors, hairbrushes, clips, and jars.
The students have expressed themselves by making various designs and items. This activity, so far, has served around 15 students with plans to expand more. With the art program being open Monday through Wednesday, and then Thursday and Friday being open, this allows the students to develop their skills to then lead the activity on their own should they choose on a free art day.
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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 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. | | | | |
