Digital Version
Impact
OUR KIDS, OUR STORIES, OUR COMMUNITY
SPRING 2024
To inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
Dear Friends and Supporters,
Spring is a time of renewal and growth, and at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley, we are experiencing a vibrant season of transformation and opportunity. As we reflect on the events of this season and look forward to the exciting endeavors ahead, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for our incredible community.
Over the past months, our clubs have been buzzing with activity, innovation, and inspiration. From the successful launch of new programs to the heartwarming stories of individual triumphs, we have seen firsthand the profound impact of our mission: To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens.
One of the highlights of this season has been witnessing the resilience and determination of our youth at our annual Youth of the Year event sponsored by Jam Cellars. Their stories are a testament to the power of support, mentorship, and opportunity. Take, for example, Laizah, a high school senior who has been a club member since she was eight years old. Through our academic support programs, Laizah not only improved her grades but also discovered a passion for mental health. Today, she is on her way to becoming the first in her family to attend college, with dreams of pursuing a career as a mental health professional. Laizah’s journey is just one of many that inspire us to continue our work with renewed vigor.
Our dedicated staff and volunteers are the backbone of our organization. Their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts ensure that our programs run smoothly and effectively, providing a safe and nurturing environment for our members. I am continuously inspired by their creativity, dedication, and compassion. Whether it's through organizing engaging activities, offering personalized mentorship, or simply being a reliable presence, they make a lasting difference in the lives of our young people.
This spring, we are also excited to introduce several new initiatives aimed at broadening our impact and reaching more youth in our community. Our expanded STEM programs are designed to ignite curiosity and foster critical thinking skills, preparing our members for the challenges of tomorrow. Additionally, our enhanced leadership development workshops are empowering young people to become confident, capable leaders in their schools and communities.
As we move forward, we remain committed to our vision of providing a world-class experience for every young person who walks through our doors. We are grateful for the continued support of our donors, partners, and community members, whose generosity and belief in our mission make it all possible. Together, we are building a brighter future for the youth of Napa Valley. In closing, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you. Your support and involvement are crucial to our success, and we are deeply appreciative of your dedication to our cause. As you read through this edition of the Impact Magazine, I hope you are as inspired as I am by the stories of growth, achievement, and hope.
Here's to a season of new beginnings and endless possibilities.
Greg Bouillerce Executive Director
Greg Bouillerce
The Napa Clubhouse recently hosted an Elementary E-Sports tournament, featuring participants from all club locations, including NCOE after school sites. The tournament focused on the game Smash Bros. Congratulations to Colton from our McPherson Clubhouse for emerging as the tournament champion!
Members were encouraged to dig into their diverse stories and cultures, letting their creativity flow to show what makes them special. They shared their artwork with the group, sparking discussions about their personal stories and deepening connections among everyone involved.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley 2024 Youth of the Year, Laizah Coronado, made it to the second level of progression toward the title of Boys & girls Clubs of America's Youth of the Year. She made us all proud and represented Napa's youth with honor and dignity. Huge thanks to all the incredible coaches, our Teen Director, Josh Sergeson, staff, board members, and friends who have supported Laizah.
A standout moment for our American Canyon Middle School Program this month was preparing Lemon Butter Chicken Skewers! After completing food safety training to grasp the significance of proper food handling, our tweens meticulously followed each step to craft a distinctive and delectable meal.
Who we Serve: If we were to consider all of the youth attending the Club, their age, household, economic status, and time spent in our programs and condense it into ONE story here is how that would read: The typical member at the Boys & Girls Club lives and attends school in Napa or American Canyon. They live in a family of four with a sibling who likely also attends the Club and parents who work full-time. Collectively, their household earns less than $80,000/year. They live in a home that is rented jointly by family or friends. Despite shared resources, money is tight and this often disrupts basic needs like nutrition & housing. As a result, their parents often work multiple jobs and rely on the Club for care when school isn’t in session.
The average household income of members attending the Boys & Girls Club of Napa Valley is less than 80k/year!
If you were to summarize the average Club Member’s entire year (after school, Spring, Summer, and Winter breaks) into one 24 hour period here is how that time would be allotted.
Club School Home Sleep
If you were to take all the children attending afterschool programs in the county of Napa, and combine them into a village of 100… 67 of them attend the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley. 18 of them attend programs run by Napa County. 15 of them attend other programs.
With representation from every major ethnic group the Club is more diverse than the whole of Napa County, 52% of which is populated by individuals of Caucasian descent and 38% by individuals of Hispanic descent. –US Census
If we apply the median Household income in Napa to the typical family we serve, of their $7,000 monthly income, $6,500 goes to basic needs like Housing, Transportation, Utilities, Groceries; leaving just $500 to spend on other essentials like child care. 70% of the households we serve live below this income threshold and receive full scholarships to attend the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley.
When you participate in a Boys & Girls Club program you really are provided with a world-class experience that assures success is within the reach of every young person who enters their doors, just like their vision statement says. The staff came alongside me to make sure I was doing well in school and not only helped me but everyone in the program to create a plan for the future. They showed me how to dream about a better futurefor everyone - and how to make that dream a reality.
Every day you're greeted by a smile from the staff. It was a happy and safe place after a long day at school. This was highlighted when The BGC became my actual classroom during distance learning. A safe haven for everyone involved in such a difficult time.
However, it wasn’t JUST a warm, happy place; I was pushed to become better and work harder in the best way. Challenged to find my voice and develop skills that I would need in the real world. This has had a huge impact on who I am today, and who I am becoming. The staff at the Boys & Girls Club has always made me feel supported. Their openness gave me the space to grow and mature.
Being the oldest of four siblings, I have always been there to help my parents when they needed it (and even sometimes when they probably didn’t), and over time that has helped me realize that I really enjoy helping people. That, I CARE. So I began to consciously implement these things into my day. Small things, like volunteering at the Nursery at my Church, or being there for a friend in need. Even starting to volunteer for Kaiser Permanente at a help desk so others could feel more welcome, just like I do when I go to the Boys & Girls Club. At Boys & Girls Club it’s things like giving a compliment to a kid who looked a little down or sitting down to make an art project with them. This has led to my desire to help others and make an impact on not only MY future, but others as well.
In the future, I am going to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I specifically am looking to become a Labor and Delivery Nurse and to be a part of a momentous lifechange for the families I get to serve. As a nurse, I can help care for others in times of need, make positive connections, help educate, and overall make a difference in their lives. As an upperclassman and a planner, I am thinking about college more than ever, and what reaching this goal would look like. Choosing a path for after graduation can be a complicated process with too many and too few resources at the same time. A 4year, community college, trade school, and more - it’s overwhelming, especially without the right support. I am so thankful that the Boys & Girls Club has been such a support to me and helped me with my goals. They have taught me how to create reachable goals, and it was even one of the staff who pointed me towards volunteering at Kaiser.
They gave guidance; not only with my more professional goals but also with how I held myself. It was here that I found my voice. I had a voice to share my opinions, ask for change, and create a better future for myself and others. It was here that I realized I wanted to be a leader and not just a follower.
Given the opportunity to become Youth of the Year, I would use this voice I have found to help fellow youth with support towards their goals for the future. I am so thankful that I have had family and the Boys & Girls Club to help with the intricate process that is college, but not everyone has that. I want to work towards making sure that everyone has resources available to them that are easy to access. I desire to be a part of change and I want to support other youth as they grow as well.
So, for my peers, those listening and those coming in behind me, I urge you - lean in. Be the support for others that the Boys & Girls Club has been for me. Understand that the Boys & Girls Club is a place where who you are, where you're from, or the circumstances that surround you, don’t determine your access to experiences or opportunities. Let us be that example. Let us create a better future.
Get ready to dive into the vibrant energy and excitement of our spring programs with this fantastic montage video! From inspiring activities and creative workshops to unforgettable moments of fun and learning, this video captures the essence of what makes our spring season special. Join us on this visual journey and see firsthand how our programs bring out the best in every participant. Don’t miss out press play and experience the magic of our spring programs in action!
Want to learn more about the
12 locations operated by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley? Dive into “our locations” section of our website to get site specific information and a map of all the sites we operate! Just follow the QR Code to the right or click: !
Watch the Video!
For families enjoying BottleRock weekend, Camp BottleRock at the Napa Clubhouse was the perfect solution. Tailored for school-aged youth, this program provided arts and crafts, games, and sports, ensuring every child found something they loved. With lunch and dinner included, parents could relax knowing their kids were well-fed and energized. The Napa Clubhouse buzzed with excitement as dedicated staff created a safe, enjoyable environment. Camp BottleRock was a huge success, offering a memorable experience for kids and a worry-free weekend for parents, making it the ideal way to enjoy the festival.
Are you ready to learn more about events offered at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley?! Dive into “our events” section of our website by following the QR Code to the right or click: !
The COVID-19 pandemic has cast a long shadow over the lives of young people, creating unprecedented challenges and exacerbating existing mental health issues. As we navigate the post-pandemic world, the importance of mental health support for youth has never been more critical. At the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley, we recognize the profound impact that mental health has on our members' overall well-being and future success. Our commitment to fostering an environment where mental health is a priority is unwavering, and we employ a range of programs and strategies to support our youth in this crucial area.
The pandemic significantly disrupted the lives of children and adolescents, leading to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Social isolation, remote learning, and the uncertainty of the pandemic have contributed to a mental health crisis among young people. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the proportion of emergency department visits related to mental health issues among adolescents aged 12-17 increased by 31% in 2020 compared to the previous year. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for effective mental health support.
At the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley, we understand that addressing mental health requires more than just programs; it requires a culture of care and support. Our staff is trained in emotional intelligence and trauma-informed techniques, which are essential for creating an environment where youth feel safe, understood, and valued. By cultivating deep, supportive relationships between kids and staff, we provide a foundation for our members to explore and foster their mental health.
Several specific programs at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley are designed to address mental health and provide our members with the tools they need to thrive.
Smart Girls and Passport to Manhood
Smart Girls and Passport are National programs that focus on the physical and emotional well-being of girls and boys ages 8 to 17. These programs provide guidance on healthy attitudes and lifestyles, including topics such as self-esteem, relationships, and mental health. Through group discussions, interactive activities, and mentorship, the programs help participants develop a positive self-image and the skills to navigate the challenges they face. By fostering a supportive community, they create a safe space for members to explore their emotions and build resilience.
Peer-Based Support Groups
Peer-based support groups are another effective strategy we use to promote mental health. These groups provide a space for youth to share their experiences, learn from one another, and offer mutual support. Facilitated by trained staff, peer support groups
encourage open dialogue about mental health, reduce stigma, and foster a sense of community. By connecting with peers who are facing similar challenges, our members gain valuable insights and coping strategies, helping them feel less isolated and more understood.
Supportive Relationships
The organic impact of creating safe, supportive, and deep relationships between kids and staff cannot be overstated. When youth feel valued and supported by caring adults, they are more likely to open up about their struggles and seek help when needed. These relationships provide a crucial foundation for mental health support, as they help youth develop trust, self-confidence, and resilience.
At the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley, our staff members are more than just mentors; they are trusted confidants and advocates for our members. By taking the time to listen, understand, and respond to the unique needs of each child, our staff creates a nurturing environment where youth feel empowered to explore their emotions and take charge of their mental health. Whether it's through a casual conversation, a structured program, or simply being present, these relationships have a profound impact on our members' mental health and overall well-being.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley is dedicated to fostering an environment where mental health is a priority and is supported by emotional intelligence and traumainformed techniques. Our programs, peer-based support groups, and most importantly our relationships are designed to provide our members with the tools and support they need to navigate the challenges they face. By creating safe, supportive, and deep relationships between kids and staff, we enable our youth to explore and foster their mental health through meaningful connections.
As we continue to navigate the post-pandemic world, the importance of mental health support for youth cannot be overstated. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley is committed to addressing this critical issue by providing a safe, supportive environment where our members can thrive. By prioritizing mental health and leveraging the power of supportive relationships, we are helping our youth build the resilience and skills they need to face the future with confidence and hope.
The Club’s March Madness Basketball program delivered excitement with its one-day tournament, uniting teams from across the BGCNV Network. This event provided children with a dynamic platform to showcase their basketball skills and engage in friendly competition. Throughout the tournament, kids participated in various games, learning valuable lessons in teamwork, sportsmanship, and personal growth. The experience emphasized not only athletic abilities but also important life skills. Experienced coaches, dedicated to fostering a positive and supportive environment, worked with participants to enhance their skills while promoting healthy habits and positive attitudes. Their commitment ensured that every child could enjoy the game and benefit from the experience. Special thanks to our Referees and our sponsors, Kaiser Permanente.
Want to learn about the enrichment program offered by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley? Dive into the “our programs” section of our website! Just follow the QR Code to the right or click: !
""Being a part of the Club has changed my life. It's not just about having fun; it's about building skills and friendships. The staff believe in us and push us to be our best.” - Teen Club Member
This Spring at the NVLA School Site, Club members dove into the fascinating world of Paper Circuits. Using small cell batteries, conductive tape, and tiny LED lights, they crafted vibrant pixel art cubes that came to life! This hands-on activity allowed participants to blend creativity with technology, as they designed and assembled their own illuminated art pieces. The excitement was palpable as kids saw their creations light up, demonstrating how simple components can come together to produce something spectacular. This engaging project not only sparked imagination but also introduced young minds to basic principles of electronics and circuitry in a fun and accessible way. Check out the highlights of this creative adventure in our video: Paper Circuits at NVLA and see how our members turned paper into a canvas of light and innovation!
Want to learn more about our impact at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley? Dive into our “Our Impact” section of our website to get the latest information from our Member Survey! Just follow the QR Code to the right or click: !
Club 1515 embarked on an unforgettable journey to Southern California for the Great Futures Road Trip. Our teens toured colleges and trade schools like UCLA and OTIS Technical School, where they explored a variety of careers and gained insights into their futures. Throughout the week, they engaged in hands-on leadership training from industry professionals and listened to inspiring stories from our staff and Club Alumni. Amidst the learning and growth, they also made time for fun, capping off their adventure with an exciting trip to Disneyland! The experience not only broadened their horizons but also left them with lasting memories and newfound aspirations.
Are you ready to learn about or support events like this one? Check out “Our Events” at BeGreatNV.org to see all of our Public, Private, and Fundraising events and Click “Sponsor this event.” Just use the QR code or visit us at www.BeGREATNV.org
After a year of development, our new mobile STEM lab trailer is here! This innovative outdoor classroom, with its giant bay windows and mobile setup, allows program professionals to engage members in robotics, coding, and more. Independently funded by the City of Napa, Deutsch Family Wine and Spirits, Impact Through Golf, Comcast, and the Depatie Family, it serves all 12 school-based locations with an evolving curriculum. Designed for flexible deployment, it can also provide secure mobile charging and Wi-Fi during emergencies. Thanks to our dedicated team and generous supporters, this dream has become a reality, revolutionizing after-school enrichment for our community!
Want to learn about the enrichment program offered by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley? Dive into the “our programs” section of our website! Just follow the QR Code to the right or click: !
“The Club has been a lifeline for our family. It's more than just a place for my kids to go after school; it's a place where they grow, learn, and are genuinely cared for.” -Club
Parent
Get ready to relive the excitement of Eggstravaganza, an event held in American Canyon! This year’s celebration was packed with festive activities, thrilling egg hunts, and joyous moments for families and kids alike. From colorful egg hunts to creative crafts, the event provided a delightful experience for everyone who attended. Watch the highlights of the day in our video: Eggstravaganza in American Canyon and see how the community came together to make this springtime event truly special. The smiles, laughter, and fun are sure to brighten your day and remind you of the joy of community celebrations!
Want to learn more about our impact at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley? Dive into the “Our Impact” section of our website to get the latest information from our Member Survey! Just follow the QR Code to the right or click: !
In a world where educational success and community support go hand in hand, the collaboration between the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley (BGCNV) and the Napa Valley Unified School District (NVUSD) stands out as a powerful example of how healthy partnerships can make a significant impact. This synergy between BGCNV and NVUSD not only benefits the families and students directly involved but also contributes to the broader educational and social landscape of our community.
The relationship between BGCNV and NVUSD is a testament to the strength of community partnerships. By working together, these organizations are able to extend support beyond the classroom and into the lives of students and their families. This collaboration ensures that children receive not only academic support but also emotional and social enrichment, creating a holistic approach to their development. “My mother always said you can’t love people in slices, and that’s exactly how this partnership benefits Napa kids. By addressing their needs holistically we’re making them better students but more than this we’re making them better people,” says Greg Bouillerce, CEO of the Club.
One of the most compelling examples of this impact is reflected in the 2023 CAASPP state testing data. Children who attended the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley for 75 days or more tested 8 percentage points higher in English Language Arts (ELA) and 10 percentage points higher in math compared to their peers. This statistic underscores the effectiveness of the after-school programs offered by BGCNV and their positive influence on academic achievement.
The availability of accessible and low-cost after-school care is crucial for many families in our community. For working parents, these programs provide a safe and structured environment for their children after school hours. This not only alleviates the burden of finding reliable child care but also ensures that children have access to enriching activities that support their academic and personal growth.
NVUSD’s commitment to offering affordable after-school programs aligns with this need. Over the past three years, investments from various industries, including expanded funding and teen services contracts, have significantly enhanced BGCNV’s ability to provide these essential services. These investments have allowed the organization to expand its offerings and reach more families, demonstrating a substantial commitment to supporting the community.
When low-cost after-school care is accessible, it yields numerous benefits for both families and schools. For families, it means peace of mind knowing that their children are engaged in productive supervised activities. This security enables parents to focus on their jobs and other responsibilities without the constant worry of child care.
For schools, the presence of after-school programs like those provided by BGCNV can lead to improved student outcomes. Students who participate in these programs often show enhanced academic performance, as evidenced by the CAASPP data. Additionally, these programs can help address behavioral issues and provide support for students who may need extra assistance outside of regular school hours.
The Napa Valley Unified School District, like many educational institutions, faces challenges related to budget constraints and declining enrollment. These issues can strain resources and impact the quality of education and support services available to students. By partnering with organizations like BGCNV, NVUSD partially mitigates some of these challenges through shared resources and collaborative programs.
The support provided by BGCNV helps to alleviate some of the financial pressures on the district. By offering low-cost after-school care and enrichment programs, BGCNV contributes to the overall well-being and academic success of students, indirectly supporting the district’s goals and helping to ensure that resources are used effectively. Economics in Napa are a primary driver for families who either depart the district or think twice about moving to Napa. High living costs, including housing and daily expenses, make it challenging for many families to sustain their lifestyles in the area. This economic strain compounds the declining enrollment crisis faced by NVUSD, as families seek more affordable living conditions elsewhere.
Access to low-cost child care, such as the programs offered by BGCNV, is a vital part of keeping families in NVUSD and Napa as a whole. These programs provide a significant relief to family budgets, allowing parents to continue working while ensuring their children are cared for in a supportive environment. By alleviating some of the financial burdens through affordable after-school care, we help make Napa a more viable place for families to live and thrive.
The collaboration between BGCNV and NVUSD exemplifies a shared vision for student success and community well-being. By working together, these organizations are able to leverage their respective strengths to create a supportive environment that benefits everyone involved. This partnership highlights the importance of community collaboration in addressing the complex needs of students and families.
As we look to the future, it is essential to continue fostering these valuable relationships and exploring new ways to enhance our collective impact. The ongoing support from industry investments and the dedication of both BGCNV and NVUSD to their mission will be crucial in driving further success and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Our partnership with Kaiser Permanente has become one of our most impactful collaborations. It began with Kaiser fully funding our Ready, Set, Work program, which offers teens career exploration through virtual reality and monthly panel discussions with local industry leaders, helping them confidently plan their futures. On Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, 50 Kaiser employees volunteered at our Napa Clubhouse, reorganizing and cleaning the facility to create a more welcoming environment. Their hands-on service exemplifies their commitment to community well-being. Kaiser also became the title sponsor of our March Madness basketball program, fostering teamwork and physical fitness among our members. Their unwavering support and innovative contributions significantly enhance our programs and facilities. We celebrate this robust partnership and look forward to many more years of collaboration, making life better for the youth and families of Napa Valley.
Want to learn more about our impact at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley? Dive into the “Our Impact” section of our website to get the latest information from our Member Survey!
Just follow the QR Code to the right or click: !
"Every day at the Club is an opportunity to make a positive impact. We're not just offering programs; we're building a supportive community that empowers every child who walks through our doors."
- Club Staff
Parents, particularly working parents, are overwhelmingly happy with the quality of BGCNV Enrichment. In terms of areas to improve there were several key takeaways...
Parents wanted more communication about upcoming activities, behavioral issues, and program enrollment.
Parents wanted more community events and engagement at their individual sites.
Parents wanted to know more about how they could help/support the Club.
Survey Question
I would recommend the Club to other families.
My child looks forward to the after school program.
I am pleased with the quality of the after school program.
I feel my child is safe in the after school program.
The Club is important to my family's stability and success.
I get good value out of what I pay for this service.
Rate Your Club Experience Overall
Full Survey Results
Average Response scale of 1:5
We’re a service organization and believe that the best way to serve our community is by welcoming its perspective and needs as we continue to grow. We don’t do surveys so that people can tell us how great we are. We USE surveys to inform our efforts and make us better.
PARENT SURVEY RESULTS
It gives us peace of mind that our child is at a safe space while we are working.
We have to work and need a safe place for our kids after school.
I am a single mother (widow). The Club provides a safe place for my daughter to attend after school. She’s made many friends in the afterschool program and enjoys spending time there. She especially loves being able to play volleyball and do arts and crafts, like painting. I appreciate the variety of activities offered. I also like how they have power hour every day, which is time for my daughter to focus on schoolwork/homework. Without the Club, I would have to find some sort of alternative for her, and I don't think it would be as enriching or rewarding. I really am grateful for an organization like the Club. Thank you!
You guys provide a safe fun place for my child to attend after school. If he was not attending the club, this would affect me being able to work.
Boys & Girls club made it so easy for us to transition our child with special needs with so much ease. It brought so much peace of mind to our day to day and we are very grateful that he is in a great environment, get motivated, looks forward to it and gets taught respectful manners with their leadership team. Love to see their structure. Thanks so much!
The club is very important for both parents because, we can concentrate on our jobs.
We like that the program is offered at the school. We appreciate how well Alex and his staff run the afterschool program at Willow. Our son enjoys the afterschool program and always shares with us the fun learning activities the program offers. He also enjoys playing sports with his friends while attending.
Without the club my kids would not have a place to go during the summer and any other break which would really affect our work. We appreciate the club for being a reliable source of care for us.
The club is very important to me. Allows me to work and be a single parent. My kids love the club.
We both work full time and need childcareideally onsite so we don’t need to interrupt the work day.
Without the Club my kids would not have a place to go during the summer and any other break which would really affect our work. We appreciate the club for being a reliable source of care for us.
I am a single parent and to me Boys & Girls program is very important due to the fact i get off later than my child and I don't have any support from anyone, you guys are pretty much my back bone to support my child. And I appreciate you guys so much!
It helps with my work schedule. It allows me to work full time and be able to pick my kids up from school after work. It helps my kids do their home work.
Without this program my child would have nowhere to go while I finish work. I appreciate that I don’t have to leave him home alone to be using technology too much.
The fourth annual UnGala, hosted by the Gallo Family and E&J Gallo Wines, was a resounding success, grossing over $400,000 for kids despite a challenging economy. The event upheld the high standards our guests have come to expect, thanks to the incredible support of the William Hill team and the efforts and creativity of our Club staff. The "we got this" attitude from both teams on that chilly May evening was palpable, and it was wonderful to see the kids and debut our new STEM lab.
Watch the Video!
We faced unexpected challenges, particularly with the weather. No one could have anticipated needing to bundle up and seeing our breath in May in Napa Valley. However, the team adapted beautifully, managing to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere despite the cold. The resilience and dedication of our staff and volunteers shone through, turning potential obstacles into opportunities for growth and camaraderie.
The evening began with a vibrant reception featuring live music by The Soul Project and an array of delectable hors d'oeuvres. Guests mingled and enjoyed the art and wine on display, setting the tone for an unforgettable night.
The dinner and auction portion of the evening was marked by heartfelt opening remarks, a touching kid presentation, and a warm welcome from the nights MC Mark Ibanez. Auctioneer Ellen Toscano, known for her unique style combining humor, energy, and musicality, combined with Mark’s unique humor and joviality kept the crowd engaged and
entertained throughout the night. The auction items, ranging from exclusive art pieces to unique travel experiences, sparked lively bidding wars, all in the spirit of supporting the Club.
One of the night's most anticipated moments was the live performance painting by David Garibaldi. With brushes in hand and music as his muse, Garibaldi captivated the audience as he transformed blank canvases into mesmerizing works of art right before their eyes. The dynamic style and energy of his performance left the audience in awe, and the finished artwork became one of the evening’s most sought-after auction items.
Following the auction, guests enjoyed a private performance by Club Teen Edumundo Gonzalez who then returned to the stage for a duet performance alongside Ellen Toscano who had previously worked as a regular performer at Beach Blanket Babylon in San Francisco. The sense of community and shared purpose was evident as attendees celebrated the evening’s success and the impact of their contributions.
Because of the generous support from our donors, over 6,000 youth came to the Club in 2023 to find someone who cared about them. We opened four new locations and created opportunities for kids and families to embrace unique Napa Valley experiences. This year's UnGala continued this tradition, ensuring that we can expand our programs and deepen our impact.
We owe a special note of thanks to the Gallo Family, E&J Gallo Wines, and William Hill Estate, who sponsored this year's UnGala. Their unwavering dedication and outstanding support were instrumental in making the evening a success and ensuring the continuation of our mission.
The 2024 UnGala was more than just a fundraising event; it was a celebration of community, resilience, and the transformative power of giving. The warmth and generosity of our supporters, even in the face of unexpected challenges, reaffirmed our commitment to creating great futures for the youth of Napa Valley.
As we look forward to future events, we remain grateful for the support that allows us to make a lasting impact on our community. Thank you to everyone who attended, contributed, and believed in the mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Napa Valley. Together, we are changing lives and building a brighter future for all.
Support our Community Campaign and help us continue connecting kids and families in Napa Valley. Your support ensures that our free monthly events like these can thrive. If you're interested in a title sponsorship opportunity, check out events by visiting our website at www.begreatnv.org! We can't do it without you!
February 7, 2024
Are you ready to learn about or support events like the this one? Check out “Our Events” at BeGreatNV.org to see all of our Public, Private, and Fundraising events and Click “Sponsor this event.” Just use the QR code or visit us at www.BeGREATNV.org
Youth of the Year
March Madness
Fine Arts Show Stem Showcase
Graduation Night
Great Futures Road Trip
Back2School Block Party AC Halloween Carnival
2024
NCH Halloween Carnival
Meritage Santa Train
"The Club is important to me because it's a safe space where I can be myself and make new friends with people who support my dreams."
- Teen Club Member
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David Hopper
Deborah Boisot
Deja Harrington
Donate For Charity Inc.
Donna Antraccoli
Donna Scoates
Dutch Bros Coffee
E M Downer Foundation
E&J Gallo Winery
Edgar Mondragon
Elizabeth Vianna
Eric Dandurand
Erica Ruddock
Escrip
Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund
Food Shed Napa Valley LLC
Foster Clark
Frontstream
Gene Diaz
Georgia Taylor
Give Lively Foundation Inc
Goldman Family Fund
Marin Community Foundation
Grant Long
Greg Bouillerce
Hammond Blessed 25th
Heather Savage
Heather Teague
Horne Services
Imoye Francis
James Lopez
James Norris
Janice K Maher
Jay Ryder
Jeff Prather
Jeni Kandel
Jenn Friedel
Jenna Curcio
Jennifer Hall
Joann Cruz
John Coleman
John Dermody
John Zieser
Johnathan Quinn
Jonathan Karpuk
Jordan Shuler
Joseph Castro
Judy Thomas
Julia Newberry
Julie Cole
Julie Foss
Kaiser Foundation
Health Plan Inc.
Kappmeyer-Isaacs Charitable
Karen Barletta
Karly Crockett
Karolina Zydziak
Kasey Krupa
Katherine Donabedian
Kathie Weis
Kim Gallagher
Larry Posner
Laura Vaughan
Linda Price
Lindsey Graff
Lon Gallagher
Lorraine Machado
Marcia Garcia
Matt Wildberger
Maxence Compagnon
Mayda Avila
Michael Depatie
Michael Waterworth
Micki Alise Hambro
Mike Desimoni
Miner Family Winery
MOD Pizza
Morgan Stanley Gift
Nancy Thomsen
Napa Bookmine LLC
Napa Select Vineyard Services
Napa Community Foundation
Napa Valley Wine Train
Natalie Wren
National Philanthropic Trust
Nicole Munoz Huschka
Nikolas Harding
P.E.O Sisterhood
Pacific Gas & Electric Company
Priority Wine Pass
Rachel Ako
Redwood Credit Union Community
Fund
Robert Lee Hudson Foundation
Robert Meanza
Ronald Bettinelli
Rose Law Firm of Napa Valley
Roxana Herhuay
Ryan Hodgins
Ryan Stiefvater
Scribe Winery- Scribe Community Fund
Shirley Hansen
Starbucks Foundation: Neighborhood Grants
Fund State Farm Insurance Stephen Kestler
Sue Negrini
Susan A. Stevens
Susan Burchill
Susan Crooke
Susan Hamilton
Tamra Yoder
Target Corporation
Terence Chang
The Benevity Community Impact Fund
The Bennington Napa Valley
The Boris and Vera Bogart Foundation
Therese Fisher
Thomas H. Gibson
Thomas Ma
Timothy Regan
Todd Blaettler
Tom LeMasters
Troy Gittings
United Way California Capital Region
United Way of the Wine Country
Vollmer Family Foundation
Will Phelps
Zoe Strohm
We love sharing data points and since July 1, of 2021, the Club’s publications have reached over 50,000 people locally. Over 9,000 individuals have spent significant time clicking through our magazines, resulting in thousands of unique clicks to our website or social media pages. That’s important because, as you know, Napa is a small community and when people visit our website or review these publications, they want to know who is helping to make this work possible. Whether you’re a parent, a participant or a sponsor, that continues to be you; so, THANK YOU!
