San Antonio – The Boys & Girls Clubs of San Antonio announced Tuesday that its Eastside clubhouse will remain open thanks to a wave of community donations. The contributions from local businesses and individuals, such as Valero, the Malú and Carlos Alvarez family, H‑E‑B, and philanthropist Harvey E. Najim, provided the funding needed to keep the doors open for the neighborhood’s children.
Why the clubhouse was at risk
Last week the nonprofit warned that it would pause operations at the Eastside location and permanently close its Southside clubhouse because of ongoing financial challenges. Over the past several years, the organization has reduced its footprint across the city, a trend driven by budget shortfalls that threatened its ability to serve youth ages 6 to 18, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Donations make a difference
The recent outpouring of support allowed the Eastside site to stay open, albeit at a limited capacity. “Our community showed up for the kids of San Antonio, and because of that, we get to keep showing up for them too,” said Debbie Powell, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of San Antonio. The nonprofit also confirmed that the Mays clubhouse in Southtown and its in‑school programming through San Antonio ISD will continue operating fully.
Operating with a leaner staff
To make the reopening possible, the organization eliminated several positions, a painful but necessary step to stabilize finances. The Eastside clubhouse will now operate with a smaller staff and reduced hours, giving the nonprofit “room to rebuild deliberately and in partnership with the community rather than all at once,” according to the release.
Future planning with a community voice council
Looking ahead, the Boys & Girls Clubs announced the formation of a Community Voice Council. The council will include representatives from other nonprofits, local political leaders, and families, providing guidance on the future of Eastside programming. A city councilman has pledged to contribute three months of operating funds to help the clubhouse achieve a stronger financial footing.
What the clubhouse provides
The Eastside clubhouse offers after‑school care, youth development programs, nutritious meals, and health and wellness resources. By keeping the facility open, the nonprofit continues to give vulnerable children a safe environment, mentorship, and opportunities to develop skills that can lead to long‑term success.
Local residents and business leaders have praised the effort, noting that the clubhouse serves as a vital anchor for families on the East Side. As the organization works to rebuild, the community’s ongoing involvement will be essential to sustaining these programs for years to come.
Original reporting: San Antonio Report — read the source article.
