Our local Boys and Girls Club has served as a cornerstone for our community’s working families. As parents, we have long chosen this institution as our trusted provider of recreational activities for our children. Recently, however, we've noticed both a sharp increase in summer fees and a distressing elimination of vital programs - most notably the youth baseball/softball program. This program loss does not only mean a decrease in sports activity; it signifies a devastating loss of our children's safe space for development and learning skills of teamwork, respect, and discipline.

Statistics show that 60% of boys and girls who play organized sports in middle school will likely commit to an active lifestyle as an adult (Source: Aspen Institute's Project Play). This critical role that the Boys and Girls Club plays in promoting youth sports cannot be overemphasized. Hence, its removal could be detrimental to the long-term health of our children and ultimately, our community.

The rise in fees paired with the decline in services is a double blow to working families who rely on this club for affordable, reliable child care over the summer period. Our community deserves better. We call upon the Board of Directors of the local Boys and Girls Club to reverse this decision.

We urge everyone to unite and sign this petition to save the youth baseball/softball program at our local Boys and Girls Club. By signing, you help raise our collective voice demanding a return of these vital services for our children.