I am happy to report that our Clubs were booming this past summer. Our average daily attendance outpaced pre-COVID numbers. This influx is also reflected in the population and industry growth our state, particularly Maricopa County, is experiencing. I heard a news report citing the latest census data that one person moves to Maricopa County every five minutes.¹ The AZ Commerce Authority has indicated that there are more than 300 manufacturing projects in the pipeline for 2023.² With tech giants Apple, Meta, the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, and so many more building facilities here, we’re being dubbed the “Silicon Desert.”

Which brings me to my point: As the leading youth development organization in the Valley, we have an important role to play in bridging the gap between education and employment by empowering our youth to excel in tech-related careers. What we do is so important because we are reaching school-aged youth in every demographic, providing access to experiences and opportunities to those who might otherwise fall through the cracks. Kids attending our Native American Clubs are getting the same programming and mentoring as our South Scottsdale Club and our Fountain Hills Club, and our North Scottsdale and North Phoenix Clubs.

In our Makerspaces and Tech Labs, we are offering immersive, hands-on projects with industry-standard equipment, structured coding education, and mentorship opportunities to equip our members with the technical expertise and problem-solving skills essential for success in the digital age. Our STEM programs promote an appreciation for programming and innovation at each developmental stage to prepare the next generation of technology pioneers within our local community.

But our impact doesn’t stop there.

We believe in nurturing well-rounded individuals who possess not only technical acumen but also strong communication, teamwork, and leadership skills. Through collaborative projects, public speaking opportunities, and leadership development initiatives, we are shaping individuals who are not only tech-savvy but also capable of contributing positively to their workplaces and communities.

At BGCS, no child is ever turned away for inability to pay. This year we are on pace to be providing more than $1 million in program assistance. To continue providing these invaluable opportunities to all of our youth, we rely on the generous support of individuals and organizations that share our vision.

Your support will not only impact the lives of the young people we serve but will also contribute to the success of our state. Together, we can empower our youth, strengthen our community, and pave the way to a brighter future for all.

Please consider a donation of $228 to cover a full month of after-school programming for a child. Or if you are able, please consider a gift of $2,280 to sponsor an entire school year of after-school programming for a child.

Your donation TODAY will make a meaningful difference in the lives of youth who need us most, helping them break down barriers and realize their full potential.

For the kids,