The Boys & Girls Club of La Plata County opened at 2750 Main Ave in September 2007. Since then, the space was renovated in 2017 and now, to continue to meet the evolving needs of our Club members, we have begun a three-phase Club renovation (full completion expected 2025). While the Club footprint cannot be changed (we are thankful to rent the building from La Plata County), how we use the space to enrich opportunities for Club members is our responsibility.

Nunn Construction is leading the first phase, the open space on the north side of the Club. Light reflecting concrete has expanded our outdoor program areas. We are fortunate to have months of beautiful weather, allowing us to provide outdoor programs and activities that support academic success such as hands on STEM experiments and arts & crafts, increased physical activities including painted in pickleball and basketball courts, and more. New fencing will define the space. Thanks to the generosity of our friends from Diversified Roofing, we’ll be adding a storage shed.

Outdoor activities benefit children and teens in many ways, including physical health (studies show kids play harder outdoors, which can improve their motor development and lower their risk of obesity and nearsightedness. Increased exposure to sunshine, vitamin D, supports bone development, healthy sleep, and a healthier immune system. Outdoor activities help kids feel happier, and less stressed, and for kids with ADHD, can help reduce symptoms and improve focus.

Outdoor play helps kids learn how to interact with others, form friendships, and solve problems. Youth can practice social and emotional skills like taking turns, encouraging one another, and self-control. Nature-based learning helps improve kid’s critical thinking and academic performance. Outdoor fun helps kids learn life skills such as planning, prioritizing, and multitasking. Outdoor play encourages creativity and imagination and playing outdoors can help kids and teens improve self-confidence and self-esteem.

Upcoming Parent/Guardian e-news will highlight phase II (enhancements to the teen lounge), and phase III (the redesign of the tech lab and office spaces) the Dream Lab. The Club’s renovation plans are funded outside our annual operating budget. To learn more about our plans and potential opportunities to invest, contact Kathrene.frautschy@bgclaplata.org.