By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — UW Health on Wednesday presented a $25,000 donation to the Boys & Girls Club of Rockford, saying it “stepped up and supported the youth and the community during a time when they need it the most.”
Dr. James Cole, chief medical officer for UW Health Northern Illinois, delivered those words in presenting the donation at the Boys & Girls Club’s Fairgrounds location on Kilburn Avenue. He said the Boys & Girls Club of Rockford was one of the “local champions” that persevered during the pandemic to provide a safe place for the city’s youth and an after school program that focuses on academic success.
“During a time when our children have struggled with the challenges caused by the pandemic, the Rockford Boys & Girls Club was there to meet their behavioral needs and to remain a constant in an otherwise unstable world,” he said.
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The money will be used to help provide mentors, a safe place and programs designed to empower youth to excel in school and lead productive lives. Tutors, mentors and club staff provide academic programming and social emotional learning to members each day.
“We’re thrilled to be able to support our partners at the Boys and Girls Club of Rockford with this donation,” Julia Zimmerman, vice president of strategic growth for UW Health Northern Illinois, said in a news release. “This resource for Rockford families is dedicated to empowering youth to lead healthy and productive lives, aligning directly with our efforts in the community.”
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The Boys and Girls Club of Rockford serves roughly 700 students annually across five locations and three school sites. The locations are in areas with the most need, and many students live within walking distance.
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on Twitter at @KevinMHaas.