Boys and Girls Club Arrives in Lake Forest

By Martin Henderson

The Kiwanis Club of Lake Forest has taken on a new challenge, and the service organization is trying to make an impact by implementing a long-term program to benefit kids and, indirectly, their parents.

It has created a foundation to establish a Boys & Girls Club in Lake Forest, bolstered by the the club's resolve that 100 percent of funds raised from annual service projects go toward scholarships, support of youth programs, and the local community.

Lake Forest resident Dave Carter is the point man on the project. A member of the Kiwanis, and a former planning commissioner for the city, Carter hatched the idea in 2004, got more serious about it in 2008, and has now seen it come to fruition. 

"I taught martial arts at Boys and Girls Club and became aware of the need these kids have," Carter said. "It's something I saw, and figured this is something the kids in Lake Forest had to be exposed to. That's where my passion comes from. 

"Their programs are geared toward the kids to teach them the right approach, the idea of respect, courtesy, commitment. You do it by walking the walk. It's such a positive influence on the kids."

The Kiwanis partnered with the long-established Boys and Girls Club of Laguna Beach, which runs the Lake Forest program out of Olivewood Elementary School on Tuesdays and Thursdays. There are currently 56 kids participating in the program, but it's open to all.

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At a cost of only $10 for a membership, the program hopes to create a groundswell of support for affordable, accessible, and high quality out-of-school care. The Kiwanis Club teamed with the Laguna Beach program, Carter said, because of its a proven track record of providing youth development programs that promote character and leadership, healthy lifestyles, and academic success.

"One of the things I found with the Boys and Girls Club is the kids take ownership of the club," Carter said. "They become a part of it."

Together, both clubs have already begun serving the children of Lake Forest by providing free lunchtime and summer programs. 

"The plan is to run the program again this winter for two days a week," Carter said. 

The organization announced a fundraiser, the "Party Like a Kid" event, on August 17, 5-10 p.m., at the Lake Forest Beach and Tennis Club at 22921 Ridge Route Dr. It will raise funds for the new Boys and Girls Club program with an eye toward funding the program for the 2013-14 school year. 

According to a press release, there will be "food galore, lively libations, auction items, and a special children’s book signing." Tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased online at kiwanislf-bgc.org. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. 

For more information on this event contact Dave Carter at 949-939-6550 or davecarterlf@cox.net or visit the website at kiwanislf-bgc.org.

Those interested in joining the Kiwanis Club of Lake Forest can also contact Carter directly.

TELL US IN THE COMMENTS: What value does a Boys and Girls Club have in Lake Forest?