MILFORD – New Hampshire State Sen. Denise Ricciardi recently visited the Boys & Girls Club of Souhegan Valley, gaining a first-hand understanding of the advocacy work done by the club to support children and families.

The team at the Boys & Girls Club greatly appreciated the opportunity to showcase their positive program offerings and community support to the senator.

The Senator toured the club seeing a games room, computer lab, science lab, art room, teen center, gymnasium, cooking stations, outside garden center and a 500 seat theater. As the school buses did their end of school day drop offs, she saw a dash of smiling faces hurrying to get to their favorite activities. Once the members start their various activities, the club’s staff then provides youth development care.

The staff utilizes structured programs to address self-esteem, prevention, wellness, and skills development.

“My experience visiting The Boys and Girls club was eye opening and truly impressive,” Ricciardi said. “The heartfelt care of the staff and tireless effort to promote programs that uplift the children, give them the self esteem to go on and be productive members of society, the joy and the smiles of the children says it all! But beyond the joy and the smiles these children are learning skills for work, life and their futures, but also coping skills. Our children are the future and the Boys & Girls Club gives a future to these children.”

“We are grateful for the Senator’s interest in learning more about the great impact we have on the families and youth that we serve in the Souhegan Valley,” said Executive Director Mike Goodwin. “We are extremely appreciative for the support we get from our state legislators, our donors and the parents that provide the financial resources in making New Hampshire a better place to live.”

The Boys & Girls Club of Souhegan Valley is a safe space to learn and grow after the school day ends – all while having fun. Club administrators describe it as a welcoming place for kids of all ages and backgrounds to come and play, be themselves, and become amazing adults. Many of our members see the club as a second home. Either way, it is the place where great futures are started each and every day. For more information on our club, please visit www.svbgc.org or call us at 603-672-1002.