Knox County – The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley announced that the First Horizon Foundation has provided a 2026 grant earmarked for event sponsorships. The funding will help the organization continue offering after‑school and summer programs that serve thousands of children and teens throughout East Tennessee.
Local impact and program reach
The Clubs operate 29 locations in six counties, with several sites in Knox County, including the DeBusk Family Club, Vestal Club, Middlebrook Club, Regal Teen Center, Haslam Family Club University, and a number of school‑based venues. Each site delivers a blend of academic enrichment, STEM activities, arts, health and wellness, sports, technology, mentoring, and workforce‑development programs.
According to BGCTNV President and CEO Bart McFadden, “We change lives and can prove it. Every event the First Horizon Foundation sponsors brings new supporters into our Clubs and pays for the mentoring, reading help and safe spaces that show up in our results.” He added that when a second‑grader’s reading improves or a teen lands a first job, the Foundation’s support plays a direct role.
Measurable outcomes for youth
The organization serves roughly 8,400 youth each year. Recent data show that 57% of members in kindergarten through second grade demonstrated reading growth, surpassing the state benchmark by 34 points. In addition, the Clubs provide full or partial scholarships to 80% of participants, ensuring families can access the programs regardless of income.
These outcomes reflect the Clubs’ focus on four programmatic pillars: academic success, healthy lifestyles, character development, and leadership. By keeping children engaged in constructive activities during out‑of‑school hours, the Clubs aim to build the skills and confidence needed for successful futures.
First Horizon Foundation’s commitment
Jim Atchley, Knoxville Market President for First Horizon Bank and a board member of the Foundation, said, “We are proud to sponsor events that rally our community and expand the after‑school and summer opportunities kids and their families count on. Investing in the next generation of citizens is a core part of our mission.”
The Foundation, the charitable arm of First Horizon National Corporation, has donated more than $200 million since its inception in 1993. Grants support areas such as arts & culture, education & leadership, environment, financial literacy, and health & human services.
Looking ahead
With the new grant, the Boys & Girls Clubs plan to host additional community events that raise awareness and generate further financial support for their programs. The organization, founded in 1943, continues its long‑standing mission to enable young people—especially those who need it most—to become productive, caring, and responsible citizens.
For more information about the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley, visit bgctnv.org. Details on the First Horizon Foundation can be found at firsthorizonfoundation.com.
Original reporting: Knox TN Today — read the source article.
