A Milestone Moment for the Boys & Girls Club of Salina
What started as a dream for many became a reality for Salina’s youth on January 6.
The Boys & Girls Club of Salina opened its doors for the very first time at Oakdale Elementary School, welcoming a small but mighty group of members affectionately known as “The Founding Five.” What began with five children has already grown to 25 active members, and continues to grow each week as more young people walk through the doors looking for a place to learn, connect, and belong.
This milestone was made possible by the generosity, enthusiasm, and belief of supporters in our community.
“The community support has played a pivotal role in making this dream a reality,” said Heather Neuhofel-Tracy, Site Director.
A 1:1 matching campaign, in addition to local grant funding, and community partnerships has helped give the Boys & Girls Club a strong foundation for succces.
A Successful Match Campaign
Before the Club even opened its doors, more than $520,000 was raised for its endowed fund and $580,000 for operations, thanks in large part to a local matching challenge from the Ted and Almita Augustine Donor Advised Fund.
For every $1 raised for the endowed fund, the Augustine Fund matched it dollar-for-dollar, up to $500,000. The generosity from local donors and the match strengthened the club’s long-term sustainability and its abilty to serve youth from day one.
Local Grants
Early investments from charitable funds at the Foundation also helped equip the Club for success. A $5,000 grant from the Dane G. Hansen Community Grant Fund supported critical startup needs, including director training and essential technology.
“Miss Lindsey and I checked in members for the first time with the greatest of ease,” said Heather. “Thanks to the grant, we were able to purchase computers, printers, and card scanners to ensure smooth operations.”
Additional support from the L.P. “Pat” Mullen Fund and the YW Legacy Fund provided $10,000 for sports equipment, art and STEM supplies, and games, giving youth hands-on opportunities to explore, create, and grow. Through activities in arts, health, STEM, recreation, education, and career readiness, members are developing technical and problem-solving skills while building creativity, teamwork, and confidence.
Community Partners
Community partnerships continue to expand the Club’s reach. In February, the Salina YMCA became the Club’s sponsor for the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), allowing members to receive a five-component meal each day.
“At the start of the program, we could offer a juice box and Goldfish or a cheese stick and crackers,” Heather shared. “Now, thanks to Salina YMCA, we are able to serve a complete meal to our members every day.”
More to Come
While fundraising continues with $3.3 million already secured towards a permanent facility, meaningful work is
already happening in the current space.
The team has grown to include three Vision Leaders and is working toward serving 50 active members by the end of the school year, with plans to launch a mobile club this summer to reach even more youth.
“Thank you for helping us build a brighter future for Salina’s kids,” said Lance Patterson, CEO, Boys & Girls Club of Hutchinson.
This progress reflects the collective commitment of donors, charitable funds, and community partners working together to strengthen opportunities for local youth now and in the years ahead.
