FACES OF THE FUTURE. The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Greater Chippewa Valley serves kids ages 7 through 18. (Submitted photo)

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Greater Chippewa Valley has announced plans to expand its presence in four local communities, increasing its capacity to serve 250 more kids and their families each day. The group announced on Wednesday, March 9, that it intends to expand in the coming months in Menomonie, Altoona, Eau Claire, and Chippewa Falls. Approximately $3 million in commitments have been made toward the $6.5 million total cost of the projects. “Imagine if a kid received homework help whenever it was needed,” said Ann Kaiser, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Greater Chippewa Valley. “And had friends to build lifelong relationships with while being exposed to innovation, technology, and careers. What if that kid had amazing mentors and adult role models and had access to amazing culinary experiences of healthy eating. Boys & Girls Clubs of the Greater Chippewa Valley makes this a reality for hundreds of kids every day! But we are not done. We are preparing to make this reality better than ever.” Here are details on the plans in the four communities:

• In Menomonie, the club hopes to expand to serve grades 6 to 8 starting this fall. The project will require $750,000 over three year.
• An Altoona Club serving 50 kids in grades 2 through 5 will opening this summer if $150,000 can be raised by April 1. 
• A total of $1.25 million in renovations are slated for the Lee & Mary Markquart Center in Eau Claire, allowing the club to attract and engage more teens and serve 50 more youths.
• The Chippewa Falls Club will move into a new home at 650 Bridgewater Ave. in April, and $2.6 million of the project’s $3.5 million cost has already been raised.

To learn more about these projects, visit cvclubs.org.