Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana (BGCGNWI) announces the launch of its annual “Return to Learn” match campaign, taking place September 12-25. During the two-week campaign, each of the organization’s 10 Clubs will compete to raise the most donations for the organization’s 5,000+ members. Thanks to the generous support of University of Chicago Medicine, donations will be matched dollar for dollar up to $100,000. During the 2023 Return to Learn campaign, the community helped raise over $141,000, which directly impacts the Club Kids and BGCGNWI’s afterschool programming.
The campaign coincides with the beginning of the new school year which ushers in new opportunities for children to learn, explore, and grow. BGCGNWI plays a vital role in ensuring the journey of discovery extends beyond the school day by providing quality after-school programming and activities designed to help every child achieve their full potential.
This year, BGCGNWI is adding a fun twist to their annual campaign with their Clubhouse Heroes Challenge. In it, notable local figures will represent the organization’s 10 Clubs in a social media fundraising campaign. The hero who wins the Clubhouse Hero Challenge by bringing in the most donations will provide a special activity for their Club. This year’s heroes include athletes, local business leaders, and an author. The full roster of 2024 Clubhouse Heroes will be unveiled on September 12 at bgcgreaternwi.org/heroes.
“Return to Learn is the time when we demonstrate our commitment to lifting up the scholars and leaders of the future,” shared Mike Jessen, President and CEO at Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana. “We are deeply grateful to our supporters working to make Return to Learn 2024 a success. This year we have so many great partners with University of Chicago Medicine, our passionate Clubhouse Heroes, our Club Resource Councils, and all the individuals who will contribute their generosity. It truly takes a village to raise a child, and I’m continually moved by the passion of the people in our village. Thanks to all of you, we are changing and saving lives.”
Individuals can help by donating to their local Club; more information on Return to Learn is available bgcgreaternwi.org/return-2-learn, which will open for two weeks beginning September 12.