t the Manchester Boys and Girls Club, everyone has a place, homework gets done after school, and the staff welcomes and supports all children. Serving primarily at-risk and economically-challenged young people, the organization has grown since its founding more than 100 years ago. On average, 300 students use the Boys and Girls Club daily, making space a premium in a building that was constructed 50 years ago.

In the past 10 years alone, membership has risen from 988 children to 3,092. Space is a serious problem, making a new facility critical. Using $700,000 in funds from CDFA's Tax Credit Program, the organization is constructing 15,000 square feet of new program space and completing renovations on the existing Club House. As a result of these improvements, the organization expects to be able to serve over 4,000 members and their families.

“I remember one child's grandmother telling us that the wonderful thing about the Boys and Girls Club is that it's a place where she knew her child could go and be safe. That means a lot. The time from 3 to 6 in the afternoon is the most dangerous time for a child,” points out Gary Frost, the organization's Executive Director.

Volunteer Fatima Elgayli says ”... the staff is the best thing here. Kids just feel so welcomed. There is so much to do."

Gary Frost, Executive Director of the Manchester Boys and Girls Club, points to a recent national study. “Fifty-seven percent of alumni said that the club saved their lives.”

Project Facts:

Total amount of CDFA grant	$1.3 million
Number of children served daily	An average of 300
Rise in membership over 10 years	32 percent
Project goal	Construct 15,000 new square feet of program space & rehab existing Club House
Total project cost	$6.67 million
CDFA Funding Source – Tax Credit Program