Today's event was short and sweet, but yet again, a fun one. I was a volunteer for the open house of the Boys and Girls Club and Early Learning center at the Salvation Army of Lexington, two of the many great programs held by the organization (described in more detail below).
Here, I met Executive Director Scott VanFossen and Program Director Jessica Ashcraft who told me a bit about the programs they would be showing parents tonight, then showed me the different activities that would be held for all the kids. A booth was set up at the front of the gymnasium for the parents to relax for a bit and learn about the programs while the kids could let loose and play to get out some after-school energy. A group of young ladies from the Southland Church Life Group and I were assigned to the game room where the kids could play games for a toy or piece of candy. Our jobs were to supervise and attempt to keep some sort of order to the games, but of course, a fun sort of chaos ensued! Though we were swamped with handing out prizes (it felt like Halloween!) and keeping the games organized, we were surprised by how patient, polite, and grateful all of the girls and boys were.
Kids also took full advantage of the inflatable obstacle course and bouncy house that were blown up in the gymnasium while more volunteers watched to make sure all kids were safe. It was a quick and fun Friday evening spent with this organization and I was excited to meet many more volunteers in Lexington looking to get involved!
About the Programs
The Boys and Girls Club and Early Learning center are two of the many programs provided by the Salvation Army serving families here in Lexington. (Personally, I had no idea that the Salvation Army had so many different services -- check out their website for the other great things they do for the community!)
The Boy and Girls Club is open to kids from K-12 and each program is specifically designed for each age group, allowing each child to build self-esteem while engaging with peers and family members. The program costs only $5 a year and focuses on five areas:
- Character and Leadership
- Education and Career
- Health and Life Skills
- The Arts
- Sports, Fitness, and Recreation
Please click here to find out more about the after school program and summer day camp.
The Early Learning Center
This program helps children prepare for entering Kindergarten, and serves families with children age six weeks to 5 years. The children are fed all three meals throughout the day and is open Monday-Friday from 7 AM - 6 PM. Please click here for more information
How YOU Can Help!
There are so many ways you can help with the Boys and Girls Club, Early Learning Center, or many of Salvation Army's other services. Opportunities range from donating time, money, or household and clothing items. Here you can find many year-round needs.
You can also sign up to help with events, ring a Kettle Bell around Christmastime, or purchase an item for a child's wish on an Angel Tree. Another fun idea? Your child or youth group can run a lemonade stand with LemonAiD after registering for supplies.
Upcoming volunteer meetings are being held as well for more information:
Volunteer Information Meetings
We will be holding monthly meetings as an introduction to individuals interested in volunteering with The Salvation Army in Lexington. We will cover what opportunities are available, a brief overview of the work done at our location, and the application process.
Meeting Dates & Times
Wednesday, April 15, 2015
Wednesday, May 27, 2015
Wednesday, August 19, 2015
Wednesday, Spetember 16, 2015
October Date To Be Determined
Contact Justin Richter, Associate Development Coordinator at: [email protected] or 859-252-7706 ext. 125 for any other opportunities.
Location and contact information:
Lexington Worship & Service Center
736 West Main Street
Lexington, KY 40508
phone 859.252.7706
Georgetown Worship & Service Center
100 Washington Square
Georgetown, KY 40324
phone 502.863.1551
Jessamine County Service Unit
205 South First Street
Nicholasville, KY 40356
phone 859.881.4241