We invite you to also do your part, and purchase your square foot for as little as $25 each. Your gift will help promote the legacy of hope and opportunity for youth.  Square Feet may be inscribed with your name, or purchase one or more in honor or memory of loved ones and friends.  Each owner will receive a personalized Certificate of Good Deed and have an inscribed display with the holder’s name permanently displayed at the new Club.  You will leave a legacy to be recognized for generations!

For more information about purchasing your square feet contact Sabrina Walker-Hernandez, Chief Professional Officer at 956. 383.2582, swalker@edinburgkids.com or log onto www.edinburgkids.com.

First Lady Michelle Obama recently launched a new campaign, Let’s Move, designed to eliminate childhood obesity in a generation.

“It’s an ambitious goal, but we don’t have time to wait,” said Mrs. Obama.

Combating childhood obesity will be quite an undertaking, considering that the number of obese children in the U.S. has quadrupled since 1960. Most obese adolescents become obese adults, setting the stage for dangerous health conditions, such as heart disease, stroke and some forms of cancer. Currently, some 32 percent of America’s children are overweight or obese.

At the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV, we understand the urgency of this situation. For the last 39 years, we have been on the front lines in the battle against childhood obesity. Through programs such as Triple Play, we teach young people how to not only eat better, but also increase the number of hours they spend engaging in physical activity and strengthen their abilities to form healthy relationships.

We know these programs work. An independent, in-depth study by Youth Development Strategies, Inc. shows that Triple Play participants, especially girls, significantly increased their daily amount of physical activity compared to their peers outside the program. In addition, participating Boys & Girls Club members have shown an increase in overall nutrition knowledge and feeling of control over their own lives.

Despite these encouraging results, there is still a long way to go to solve the childhood obesity epidemic. As Mrs. Obama said during her press conference announcing the initiative, every American has a part to play in resolving this issue, including nonprofit organizations, businesses, medical professionals, as well as parents and schools. Each of us has a stake in this battle – whether it’s because of a personal connection with someone who is struggling with these issues, or simply a desire to reduce health care costs. That means we all can, and must, play a role in solving this problem.

Eating well, exercising regularly and making good lifestyle choices help lay the foundation for success. Studies prove that a healthy lifestyle keeps young minds more alert, and can also boost confidence and self-esteem. 

Solving this dangerous problem is a tall order. But it can be done if we lead by example, encourage our children to become more physically active and support local youth development organizations, such as Boys & Girls Clubs.

If we all play a part, we can ensure long, healthy lives for generations to come.

If you would like to donate gently used clothing, toys, electronics, or household items call 956.383.2582.

Boys & Girls Clubs Week celebrates what the Club’s offer and the positive influence caring adults has on the lives of youth every day.

“Many kids only see our fire and police officers when there is a crisis”, said Sabrina Walker-Hernandez, Chief Professional Officer for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV, “We wanted to provide a positive environment where the kids, firemen and police officers could interact.  The kids were really impressed that they took the time from their schedules to serve them.”

The ‘servers’ not only assisted in food preparation but they also served over 120 meals and drinks to the Club kids.  In the course of their interaction with the kids, firemen and police officers asked, “What is it like being a police officer?” How Can I be a fireman when I grow up?” The firemen and Police Officers took the time to answer each question. 

Ubaldo Perez, Deputy Fire Chief for the Edinburg Volunteer Fire Department, reveals his fondness for the club kids when he says “This has been an awarding experience for me.  Each kid has a different approach when they want more then their have of cup of cool-aid. They forget they have a red ring around their mouth as evidence that they have been served!”

Arts & Crafts Hour for 11-12 Year Olds at El Tule Unit

The craft series, designed to show kids how to reduce, reuse and recycle demonstrates they have the opportunity to make wise choices by recycling for a better lifestyle.

Arts & Crafts Hour for 11-12 Year Olds at El Tule Unit

The craft series, designed to show kids how to reduce, reuse and recycle demonstrates they have the opportunity to make wise choices by recycling for a better lifestyle.

Arts & Crafts Hour for 9-10 Year Olds at El Tule Unit

The craft series, designed to show kids how to reduce, reuse and recycle demonstrates they have the opportunity to make wise choices by recycling for a better lifestyle.

Arts & Crafts Hour for 7-8 Year Olds at El Tule Unit

The craft series, designed to show kids how to reduce, reuse and recycle demonstrates they have the opportunity to make wise choices by recycling for a better lifestyle.

Arts & Crafts Hour for 7-8 Year Olds at El Tule Unit

The craft series, designed to show kids how to reduce, reuse and recycle demonstrates they have the opportunity to make wise choices by recycling for a better lifestyle.

Arts & Crafts Hour for 5-6 Year Olds at El Tule Unit

The craft series, designed to show kids how to reduce, reuse and recycle demonstrates they have the opportunity to make wise choices by recycling for a better lifestyle.