A Groundbreaking for Boys & Girls Clubs Teen Center Projects

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale broke ground on two teen center projects today, May 24.
Two branches, the Thunderbirds Branch and the Vestar Branch, will receive new facilities specifically designed to serve the growing number of teens attending the clubs. Construction is expected to be completed this November.
The construction was made possible by major donations from community leaders, Ellie and Michael Ziegler, Suzanne and Steve Hilton and Marianne and Glenn Guenther, as well as the BGCS Board of Governors, staff and community members.
Much of the funding raised by the BGCS Board of Governors and staff, was raised the the $1 million match challenge, which is still accepting donations to help fund the operations of these new gymnasiums once they’re built.
“We are strong supporters of successful programs helping young people, and we know this donation will help provide teens with a safe, nurturing and healthy option to spend their time,” said donor, Marianne Guenther. “We hope that in this new gymnasium our young people will have inspiring conversations, dream big, build confidence and have healthy game-changing opportunities.”
The Thunderbirds Branch will be home to the new Hilton Teen Center, which will be complete with a computer/multi-media lab, game room, kitchen, tutoring facility and the Guenther-Curran Family Gymnasium.
The Vestar Branch will be home to the Ellie and Michael Ziegler Teen Center, which will feature a new half gym and revitalization of the existing facilities.
“Research shows us that the more time young people spend at a Boys & Girls Club, the more likely they are to feel connected to school and have greater post-secondary aspirations. For kids today, the path to their futures is crowded with temptation and misdirection like we have never seen before,” said Dr. Lisa Hurst, Chief Executive Officer, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale. “We are so thankful to the Guenthers, Hiltons and Zieglers for leading these projects that will impact generations of youth, giving them a safe place to learn and grow during vulnerable non-school hours. Our kids are fortunate to grow up in a community that cares so deeply for its young people and is willing to invest in their futures.”