Southern Wisconsin Times

The City of Janesville has officially conveyed over three acres of land to the Boys & Girls Club of Janesville, fulfilling the organization's request for a donation. The land, located between the Rock River and Delavan Drive on the east side of South Jackson Street, was owned by the city and has now been handed over to the Boys & Girls Club.

In addition to the land donation, the Boys & Girls Club has also received a generous Pay it Forward grant from the City, amounting to $750,000. This grant, along with the donated land, will contribute to the construction of a 35,000-square-foot facility for the organization. The new facility, a single-story building situated along the riverfront, will enable the Boys & Girls Club to expand its programming and better serve the community.

Rebecca Veium, the Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Club of Janesville, expressed gratitude for the City's support, stating, "The Boys & Girls Club of Janesville Board of Directors and staff are grateful for the City’s support. This partnership brings our vision of a new building to better serve our youth and community closer to fruition."

The project not only benefits the Boys & Girls Club but also contributes to the redevelopment of Janesville's south side. The City had purchased the land over several years with the intention of exploring commercial and recreational redevelopment opportunities along the river. By partnering with the Boys & Girls Club, the City is promoting revitalization while ensuring that the riverfront remains under public ownership for future community use.

This new facility will significantly enhance the services provided by the Boys & Girls Club, offering a safe space for local youth to engage in affordable after-school and summer programs. The organization's focus on academic achievement, healthy lifestyles, and character development will continue to positively impact the community.

The conveyance of the land and the City's grant are just the beginning of the Boys & Girls Club's ambitious plans. A capital campaign will be launched to raise additional funds for the construction of the facility. The project represents not only an investment in the Boys & Girls Club but also a testament to the growth and opportunities that Janesville offers.

With the City's support and the community's involvement, the Boys & Girls Club of Janesville is one step closer to realizing its vision of a new building that will better serve the youth and the wider community.

For more information about this community initiative and the Boys & Girls Club of Janesville's campaign, please visit their website at: https://www.bgcjanesville.org/about-our-campaign/

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.janesvillewi.gov/Home/Components/News/News/16293/29