Foundations offer to match donations to Club

February 6, 2008 - Two local foundations are seeking to help increase financial support for the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Peninsula which serves youth in East Palo Alto, eastern Menlo Park and the North Fair Oaks area of Redwood City. 

The Morgan Family Foundation and the Sobrato Family Foundation have each awarded the Club sizeable grants totaling over $300,000.  “The grants have been made as challenges to the Club and the community.” says Peter Fortenbaugh, the Club’s Executive Director.  In order to receive the funds, the Club must first raise funds from new donors or from those who have not given in more than a year.  “While we welcome and are extremely grateful for these challenges, we still have a lot of work to do. We must get the word out and hope that people respond.”  Fortenbaugh continued.

“These challenge grants provide a great incentive for anyone wanting to support an organization like the Club that is doing good work in the community.” says Christiaan Canter, the Club’s Director of Development.  The Sobrato Family Foundation grant will provide $2 for every $1 donated and the Morgan Family Foundation grant will match contributions $1:$1.  “This is an excellent opportunity for those who want to maximize their support.” Canter explained. To qualify for the full match, gifts must be from new donors or those who have not given in more than one year and received by June 30, 2008. Increases from current donors will also be matched.   

Founded in 1958, the Peninsula Club and its programs have evolved greatly.  Today, the club has seven sites – three clubhouses and four school based programs.  In the areas served by the Club, the median per capita income is approximately $24,000, 80% of the children perform below grade level, and upwards of 70% of youth do not complete high school. Last year over 3,250 children aged 6-18 participated in the Club’s programs, a 50% increase over the previous year.  On average, almost 1,000 youth attend the Club daily.  

The Club is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.  “For many years the Club existed largely as a safe place for kids to hang out” says Director Fortenbaugh. “But society has changed and that is not enough anymore.  We must guide our members to understand the importance of education.  They need to graduate from high school with a plan for their future.  We are partnering closer with schools and families.  We ask ourselves everyday how we can make Silicon Valley a great place to grow up for all of our children.

The Club’s programs are made possible by a combination of gifts and grants from the community.  Families contribute what they can. No child is ever turned away.

Click here to make a donation. If you should have questions or comments, please email Cheryl Hogan in the Club's Development office or call her at (650) 646-6127.