SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ – Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale (BGCS) is excited to announce a generous $50,000 grant from Thunderbirds Charities for the “Adding the A in STEM” program. The funding will be dedicated to the renovation of art rooms at the Vestar and Thunderbirds Branches facilitating comprehensive remodels, marking the first updates since the construction of these facilities.

The art rooms at BGCS Thunderbirds Branch in the Grayhawk Community, built in 2001, and Vestar Branch in Desert Ridge, built in 2007, will undergo significant transformations in the coming weeks. Both spaces will receive new flooring, improved lighting, and a fresh coat of paint. Additionally, the renovations will include installing new storage solutions, tables, and chairs to create a more functional and inspiring environment for young artists.

The Thunderbirds Branch will see a reconfiguration of its layout, including the removal of a sink in the center of the room, which will be replaced with a true art sink situated in a new location to enhance the room’s flow. Furthermore, new window tinting will be installed to allow for natural light while reducing sun glare, fostering a more conducive artistic atmosphere.

BGCS CEO Ivan Gilreath expressed gratitude for the support, stating, “We are incredibly thankful to Thunderbirds Charities for their generous grant. Art programs have evolved significantly since these rooms were first constructed, and we are excited to provide our kids with welcoming and creative spaces that meet today’s artistic needs. These renovations will ensure that our members have an up-to-date environment to express themselves and develop their artistic talents.”

The remodels at both the Thunderbirds and Vestar Branches are set to begin shortly, with an anticipated completion by the end of fall. This initiative reflects BGCS’s commitment to offering transformative spaces that encourage artistic expression and creativity among its members.

BGCS is open to kids and teens at nine locations with after-school programming that includes academics; leadership and good citizenship; and fitness and healthy choices; and specialty programs in the fields of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. Learn more about BGCS after-school programs at www.bgcs.org.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale (BGCS)

This grant is part of the Spring 2024 cycle. View a list of all Recent Grantees.