Boys & Girls Clubs of Indianapolis Celebrated $45,000 Gift

The grand opening of the Center of Hope at Boys & Girls Clubs of Indianapolis took place on Sept. 27 at 4:30 p.m. The event showcased the newly renovated academic success room and featured a check presentation along with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Representatives from the Panda Cares Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Panda Express, were on site to present the $45,000 grant check. The event featured a surprise book giveaway for the youth in attendance, Club tours, as well as a variety of fun and engaging activities.

The Keenan-Stahl Club House Center of Hope received new flooring, a freshly painted ceiling, updated tiles and custom artwork thanks in part to the Club’s construction partner, and donations from Tonn and Blank Construction. Additionally, the Club was able to enhance its learning supplies resulting in new SEL materials and technology to focus on four learning zones (collaborative, tech, learning and focus). Furthermore, the grant allows for added support of Club staff with continuous learning in trauma informed practices, which in turn enables staff to provide high-level academic programming for each Club kid and teen’s learning styles.

The Panda Cares Center of Hope space is specially designed within the Keenan-Stahl unit to provide a safe and nurturing environment for youth to excel academically. The center will encourage Club members to dream big, express themselves and pursue their educational passions. By implementing Project Learn, an evidence-based educational strategy, the Center of Hope will support youth-centered learning, character building, academic success and college readiness through activities like homework help & tutoring and high-yield learning activities.