With 10 Clubs throughout Lake and Porter counties, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana works every day to ensure programming and services are available to the children of Northwest Indiana.
With the arrival of Denise Koebcke as the new Vice President of Philanthropy, the future of the Clubs is in good hands.
Koebcke comes to Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana with a long history of service.
“For as long as I can remember, I had a highly developed sense of empathy, equity, and justice, which is why I believe I have always been drawn to the human service professions,” said Koebcke.
Driven by a desire to make a lasting impact, Koebcke has spent time as an educator, with Team Lead and The Caring Place.
“I want to have a positive impact and leave behind more light than darkness,” said Koebcke.
Most recently Koebcke served as President and CEO of The Caring Place providing shelter and services to victims of domestic abuse.
“Serving as the President and CEO of the Caring Place was both inspiring and rewarding in so many ways,” said Koebcke. “It allowed me opportunities to create safe spaces and support for those in emergency crisis situations.”
Understanding the reach and scope of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana, joining as Vice President of Philanthropy was an obvious choice for Koebcke.
“I am excited to bring all my experience and innovative spirit to the table on behalf of a much larger number of Northwest Indiana children and families,” said Koebcke.
As a former teacher, Koebcke realizes that the children who attend Boys & Girls Clubs are really the future of Lake and Porter counties.
“Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana plays such a vital role in the health and success of our communities throughout the region,” said Koebcke. “Our services build protective factors and empower strength and leadership in our youth.”
Koebcke is already looking for additional ways to engage with the community and support already established programs throughout the Clubs.
“I often wish everyone could see the engagement and excitement on our kids’ faces as they participate in exceptional STEM activities, gardening, growth mindset activities, and so many exceptional programs offered in every Club,” said Koebcke.
Providing these programs to students at just a fraction of the cost, Koebcke looks forward to being an advocate for the Clubs.
“I wish everyone understood that we offer these services for kids at just 10% of the cost of comparable clubs and activities,” said Koebcke. “We are constantly seeking funding from our amazing community partners to mitigate the barriers to services for kids.”
One of the many upcoming projects planned is an expansion of their already exisisting South Haven Club.
“We currently have a capital campaign in progress to renovate/build our Club in South Haven, and we need everyone’s support,” said Koebcke.
Additionally, members at all Clubs can get ready for back-to-school together.
“In September we have our Return to Learn, a two-week fundraiser for the agency to assist with services for our members as they get back to school,” said Koebcke.
Koebcke encourages people to think outside the box when considering donating.
“One way to contribute that has a big impact is the donation of stocks, bonds, interest, endowments for example,” said Koebcke.
Always available to support, Koebcke encourages anyone thinking of donating to reach out to her directly at dkoebcke@bgcgreaternwi.org.
“By supporting Boys & Girls Clubs in our region, you are truly contributing to more vibrant, positive, stronger communities in general,” said Koebcke.
To learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana please visit bgcgreaternwi.org.
