Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica

Happy New Year from Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica! Here’s to another year of doing whatever it takes to make a difference in our community. Wishing you health, joy, and happiness in 2021! #smbgc #GreatFutures #happynewyear

Happy New Year from our CEO Emily Ausbrook and the whole SMBGC family! This year so many of you supported the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica kids and families. Thank you for all that you did this year to help your community thrive. We will continue the work in the new year, providing hot meals for kids and families as well as academic support and virtual programming as we patiently await a full recovery. Please stay safe and we look forward to connecting with you in-person in 2021! #GreatFutures #smbgc #HappyNewYear

Let our neighbors experiencing difficulty this season know they aren’t alone. Give them the best gift of all - food to eat. Help us provide groceries for a family with a generous donation: www.smbgc.org/give. Every dollar counts. You can make a difference today. #smbgc #donations #charity

It’s not too late to help spread holiday cheer when you shop with @AmazonSmile! Head to smile.amazon.com, choose Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica, and donate anytime you shop on Amazon! Feeling extra generous? Check out our Wishlist for the items we need most for our clubs. Thanks in advance! Wishlist: https://smile.amazon.com/hz/charitylist/ls/205W6PKIL4DZP #amazonsmile #charity #giveback #smbgc #GreatFutures

We can help create #GreatFutures because of PEOPLE LIKE YOU! Thanks to your generosity we raised $400,033 to make a direct impact on the lives of our kids and families at our 2020 Gala to Support Youth and Build Community. Although we couldn’t be together, we hope you enjoyed our program and learned what our SMBGC kids, families and team have achieved over the course of 2020. We’re in awe of the resiliency of our families and staff members. It filled our hearts to celebrate their accomplishments. So many of you stood up for kids, bid on auction items and of course, we’re forever grateful for our event sponsors. We are sending a deep, heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you.

Sending a huge THANK YOU to one of our dedicated Board members, Jason Meugniot, for bringing extra joy to families this Holiday season - with a donation of 100+ trees!

Congratulations to Nina Kiefer, Executive and Operations Manager of Santa Monica Boys & Girls Clubs for being honored with "The Conquistador of Chaos" Clubs Professional Association Award for SMBGC! 2020 has turned things upside down and backwards, and when things hit the fan, you quickly can identify the people that stand up and make the best of things. Nina Kiefer has done that time and time again and steps forward as one of those people that gets ‘whatever it takes’ done.... In times of need, the pressure can make things collapse, and it becomes easy to succumb and stay safe and secure until things pass. But for leaders and doers, it’s time to shine, it’s time to ‘play big’, and it’s time to take on the challenges of the day as opportunities we get to conquer. Nina is the Conquistador of Chaos by creating order out of chaos, playing big and doing whatever it takes to meet the needs of our Santa Monica community. #GreatFutures #smbgc #awards

Can you FEEL the joy? In a year unlike any other, moments like these mean the world. This week, we distributed winter essential clothes, masks, and a toy to community members in need. We are so grateful for our sponsors (Larry & Stacey Kohl, Walmart, VideoAmp, and Macerich) who made HOLIDAY HEROES possible. The reality is, our work here at Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica continues all year long. Many more families need assistance with groceries, food, clothes, supplies, an...d rent. Can you help a family in need by donating today? Head to www.smbgc.org/give to share your contribution. Happy Holidays! #GreatFutures #smbgc #happyholidays

TODAY IS THE DAY! We cannot wait to see you at our 2020 Virtual Gala this evening at 5:30pm. The Auction is OPEN NOW and ends TONIGHT at 7:15pm. Be sure to bid on these extraordinary Great Getaways, Food & Wine Packages, Memorabilia Items, & Family Fun! VIEW AUCTION ITEMS: https://one.bidpal.net/smbgcgala2020/browse/all If you aren’t able to make the event, we are also accepting donations on our website at https://www.smbgc.org/give-2/. All donations will go towards learnin...g support, meals, financial assistance, and/or mentorship for our local youth. Thank you for your continued support during this unprecedented time! Thank you to our generous sponsors: Freedman & Taitelman Lexus Santa Monica | Lacarguy Family Of Dealerships #GreatFutures #smbgc #gala #auction #virtualevent

Partner with Us to Sponsor Our 1st Virtual Gala to Support Youth & Build Community! Join the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica for an evening of inspiring stories, stellar youth performances, and a chance to bid on unique auction items and experiences. Our new virtual format enables us to engage a broader audience. We anticipate a minimum of 400 community leaders and influencers in the public and private sectors. BECOME A SPONSOR: e-mail [email protected] reading

In a world where: Half of all youth in the US do not believe in the American Dream 3.5 million jobs will require education in STEM by 2025 The US has a dramatic shortage of STEM workers ... Our approach is critical. We provide homework help, STEM education and individualized coaching to help members chart a unique course to higher education and career pathways that align with their passions and talents. Be a part of the solution. Donate today: https://www.smbgc.org/give/

Our next auction item is a FAMILY PHOTO SHOOT! Includes three appointments: Consultation, Photography Session, and Presentation + 9x14 Print. Bidding starts at just $250, which can tremendously help support our local community! BID NOW on Family Fun: https://one.bidpal.net/smbgcgala2020/browse/7 Get Tickets Now: https://www.smbgc.org/gala/... Donate Directly: https://www.smbgc.org/give-2/ #GreatFutures #smbgc #gala #donations #auction

Hear what one local parent has to say about Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica. 85% of parents have observed their children have improved their academic performance since attending the Club! We wouldn’t be able to accomplish this without the assistance of our generous donors and corporate partners. Thank you for your donations! #donations #gift #GreatFutures #smbgc

Join our Virtual Auction: Bid on our PRIVATE BALI VILLA FOR 6 Get away to a oneofakind villa in magical Bali, the most famous island in Indonesia, which blends breathtaking mountain scenery and beautiful beaches with warm friendly people and vibrant culture! PACKAGE INCLUDES:... 8day/7night stay at a luxurious villa in Bali for up to six (6) guests Private chef for the entire stay and roundtrip airport transfers Lush gardens, Balinese daybed & private topfloor terrace Private pool, traditional Balinese furnishings, en-suite bathrooms, staff of 5 No expiration dates and no blackout dates simply subject to availability BID NOW: https://bit.ly/2VB6NTW Get Tickets Now: https://www.smbgc.org/gala/ Donate Directly: https://www.smbgc.org/give-2/ #GreatFutures #smbgc #gala #donations #auction

Join us in celebrating Lights On After School the only national holiday dedicated to impactful after school programs that help kids and their families provide critical care during after school hours. This year COVID-19 has shifted how we think about after-school activities. We’ve been busy keeping our members safe, healthy and LEARNING after school and ALL day long. Our clubs have become effective, socially distanced virtual learning centers for our students. Check ou...t TODAY’S great event by CAN (California AfterSchool Network): CA3 LIGHTS ON AFTERSCHOOL CALIFORNIA 4:00-5:00PM October 22, 2020 Join the California Afterschool Advocacy Alliance (CA3), the statewide voice for afterschool, in a virtual celebration of our hardworking staff and legislative champions across California. Hear from students, families, state legislators, and other guests about the important role of afterschool staff and programs across California, especially during COVID-19 school closures. REGISTER FOR FREE: https://us02web.zoom.us//upArc-yoqzwpHNPoaCvNkCsEc_o7nT9mt Read More: https://www.afterschoolnetwork.org/lights-afterschool

Through it all, Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica has been committed to doing "whatever it takes" to keep our kids on the right path. Every day, we show up to provide programs and services to kids who need us now more than ever. We invite you to take a look into our history and explore our commitment to our community for the past 76 years. Inspired to help us continue providing food, programs, technology, medical and cleaning supplies to our families? DONATE TODAY: https://...www.smbgc.org/give/ #GreatFutures #Donations #GiveBack

Winter is approaching so cozy up to our Kindred Connections Fireside Chats about what's impacting our community during these challenging times. Grab a cup o’ joe or add some marshmallows to your hot chocolate as we pause to discuss how we can help each other thrive. You're invited to join each of our live, virtual events moderated by our very own Emily Ausbrook, Santa Monica Boys & Girls Clubs Chief Executive Officer. OCTOBER 28: 10:30AM 11:30AM... How do we build a culture in our diverse world where all kids feel equal & included? Join us for a conversation about diversity, equity, identity and inclusion. We will explore how we can guide all our children towards healthy relationships with themselves and others. Featuring Panelists: Dax-Devlon Ross Author, Social Impact & Equity Strategist, Journalist Dr. Ben Drati Superintendent, Santa Monica Malibu Unified School District Graciela Meibar Executive Coach, Speaker, Senior Advisor Register Here: https://www.greenvelope.com//.public-8252200e58a44b1388408 NOVEMBER 10: 10:30AM 11:30AM Navigating Our New Reality It takes hard work for each of us to remain productive, happy and healthy amidst COVID-19. For some, it’s juggling work from home plus children who are schooling from home. For others it’s navigating the unemployment system to remain fed and housed or in a critical, college degree program. Join us for a conversation about the various ways in which the pandemic is impacting our lives and hear about how organizations and individuals have pivoted in inspiring ways to find solutions and navigate this new reality. Featuring Panelists: Lizzy Moore President, Santa Monica College Foundation Cindy Leuty-Jones Author, Activist Robert Klein President & CEO, Saint John’s Health Center Foundation Salvador Molina College Student, SMBGC Staff Member & Youth Leader Register Here: https://www.greenvelope.com//.public-6a0f5de20bc846cba696e NOVEMBER 18: 12:30PM 1:30PM Keeping Kids Engaged & Excited How do we keep our kids engaged and excited during COVID-19? A critical part of youth development is exploring our world, discovering talents and passions, unfortunately, that can be tough to do from the living room. Join us for a conversation about some creative solutions for keeping kids active and curious during the pandemic. Featuring Panelists: Aaron Dworkin CEO Summer Learning Association Perry Kalmus Co-Founder of AKALA Lorraine Orr COO BGCA Register Here: https://www.greenvelope.com/event/FiresideChat-Engaged/rsvp #GreatFutures #smbgc #boysandgirlsclub #liveevents

Ride down the beach in style in this Electra 2021 Cruiser while supporting college admissions support! Thanks to Alex Bologna, Alumni & Long-Time Supporter, for highlighting this wonderful item for our 2020 Virtual Gala. Bidding starts at just $168 ($370 value). BID NOW on Family Fun: https://one.bidpal.net/smbgcgala2020/browse/7 Get Tickets Now: https://www.smbgc.org/gala/... Donate Directly: https://www.smbgc.org/give-2/ #GreatFutures #smbgc #gala #donations #auction

Volunteer spotlight: Jephte ‘Paletas’ Zuniga. Jephte has been instrumental in making our food distribution a success; on most days it’s only me and him out there distributing food. If it weren’t for Jephte’s goodwill and volunteerism, we would not be able to distribute as much food as we do. He’s never late and always wears a smile under his face mask.

FAIRMONT ST.ANDREWS SCOTLAND GOLF ESCAPE Escape to Scotland and become a Holiday Hero! Our Virtual Auction Item at the Fairmont St. Andrews Golf Escape in Fife, Scotland is available now for bidding starting at $3,900 ($4,950 value). THIS PACKAGE FOR TWO INCLUDES:... 7-night stay in a Junior Suite Daily breakfast, including taxes and gratuities $500 resort credit to be used for any spa, dining, or golf activities All room-related fees and taxes The 520-acre, five-star Fairmont St Andrews resort encapsulates luxury, elegance and truly breathtaking surroundings in St. Andrews, the Birthplace of Golf. Its lavish and stunning surroundings, peaceful setting, and stunning cliff-top views of St Andrews and the North Sea will keep you dreaming of the Scottish Moors long after you’ve returned home. This auction item will provide 150+ members with gifts, games, clothing, meals, and more this Holiday Season for our most deserving members. BID NOW on Great Getaways: https://one.bidpal.net/smbgcgala2020/browse/3 Get Tickets Now: https://www.smbgc.org/gala/ Donate Directly: https://www.smbgc.org/give-2/ #GreatFutures #smbgc #gala #donations #auction

Our partners at @nortonlifelock hosted a webinar for our teens on how to stay safe online. As we continue #distancelearning support online safety is more important than ever!!! #smbgc

Join our Virtual Auction: Lions & Tigers & Elephants, Oh My! EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF AFRICA PACKAGE INCLUDES:... 6 nights at Zulu Nyala Heritage Safari Lodge or Hemingway Tented Camp Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner 2 game viewing activities per day on Zulu Nyala Game Reserve Includes all taxes and fees Zulu Nyala Private Game Reserve provides a unique bush experience in the heart of one of South Africa’s most diverse conservation regions. This lush stretch of paradise is home to a wide variety of game, from the majestic elephant to rhino, buffalo, hippo, giraffe, the secretive leopard and cheetah and the shy Nyala antelope that are endemic to the region. BID NOW: https://bit.ly/2VB6NTW Get Tickets Now: https://www.smbgc.org/gala/ Donate Directly: https://www.smbgc.org/give-2/ #GreatFutures #smbgc #gala #donations #auction

Everyone's favorite deal day has arrived! Make a difference while you shop Amazon Prime Day deals on October 13 & 14. Simply shop smile.amazon.com/ch/95-1890706 or with Amazon Smile ON in the Amazon Shopping app and Amazon Smile donates to Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica. If you're feeling like spreading extra love, take a look at our Amazon Wish List: https://smile.amazon.com//205W6PKIL/ref=smi_ext_lnk_lcl_cl for educational supplies we hope to integrate into our curriculum. We'll be sure to offer some Prime appreciation. Thanks for your support!

Our CAB LOVERS WINE PACKAGE is available for bidding RIGHT NOW! Enjoy this delicious wine while supporting a great cause. Includes Caro 2017, Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, and Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Bidding is currently at $110 and is going up quickly! Join our Virtual Auction Now and support 10+ in-person pod distance learners at Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica. We are currently serving about 120 members at our two locations and cost...s have gone up significantly given the most recent guidelines. With your help, we can increase our current capacity, increase staff hours, allow for professional development, and provide more meal support! BID NOW on Food & Wine: https://one.bidpal.net/smbgcgala2020/browse/2 Get Tickets Now: https://www.smbgc.org/gala/ Donate Directly: https://www.smbgc.org/give-2/ #GreatFutures #smbgc #gala #donations #auction

We have incredible items up for auction leading up to our 2020 Virtual Gala this Saturday, December 5th! Start bidding now on these Great Getaways, Food & Wine, Memorabilia, & More! Will you win the Chateau Lafite , DeAndre Jordan Signed Shoes , or Private Villa in Bali ? Only time will tell. Support our Santa Monica youth today! Start Bidding On Auction Items NOW: https://one.bidpal.net/smbgcgala2020/browse/all Get Tickets: https://www.smbgc.org/gala/... Donate Directly: https://www.smbgc.org/give-2/ #GreatFutures #smbgc #gala #auction #virtualevent

Congratulations @lakers and @caldwellpope

Since 1944, SMBGC has given kids and teens what they need to succeed, providing a safe and nurturing environment to develop socially, succeed in school, stay physically active and prepare for positive futures. Give To Our Youth This #GivingTuesday: https://www.smbgc.org/give-2/ By attending or donating to our Virtual Gala this Saturday, you are supporting our mission to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as p...roductive, caring, responsible citizens. Get your tickets here: https://www.smbgc.org/gala/. The Virtual Gala will feature inspiring mission moments, live & silent auctions, dynamic testimonials & compelling videos. Special guest performances 400+ leaders and influencers Powerful youth presentation Plus, an auction featuring Great Getaways, Memorabilia, Food & Wine, and Family Fun Items! Browse & Bid on Auction Items Here: https://one.bidpal.net/smbgcgala2020/browse/all Your contribution means the world to our members. Thank you in advance for your support! #givingtuesday #giveback #charitableorganization #GreatFutures #smbgc

Today and all days we celebrate our members especially those in our #smartgirls program!!! #smbgc

Did you visit the Boys & Girls Club growing up? We want to hear from you. What’s your favorite memory? Share your stories in the comments or email [email protected]. Continue to stay in touch and join our newsletter. #GreatFutures #smbgc #boysandgirlsclub #alumni

Make a difference this holiday. Shop for gifts at smile.amazon.com/ch/95-1890706 to generate donations for Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Monica and check out our @amazonsmile Charity Lists to donate the items we need most. Happy Shopping! @amazonsmile #smbgc #donations #amazonsmile

Wishing you a happy and healthy Thanksgiving from all of us at Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica. #happythanksgiving #thanksgiving2020 #grateful #gratitude #smbgc

In honor of THANKSGIVING, we’re celebrating a WEEK OF GIVING. Make a donation today that makes an impact for a family in need: https://www.smbgc.org/give-2/. Here's how you can help: - Donate a minimum of $50 to provide a family of 4 with a holiday meal... - Attend our Gala on 12/5 to support our youth & build community - Shop via Amazon Smile here: smile.amazon.com/ch/95-1890706 - Become a Holiday Hero by donating to create care packages of clothes, toys, games & books for kids Thank you in advance for your contribution! We wouldn't be able to uplift the community without the generosity of people like you. Donate Now: https://www.smbgc.org/give-2/ #GiveBack #Holidayheroes #Gratitude #Donations #Grateful

Getting ready to cheer on the @lakers tonight!!! The #lakersyouthfoundation have been great partners for years and we are ready for the W! #smbgc

WELCOME us in highlighting alumni GARRETT SAFRON! As a hard-working, single mom of three boys, Garrett’s mom leaned on The Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica as an after school safe haven for her kids. Garrett fondly recalls it becoming his second home. There, he developed lifelong friendships while playing basketball on some of his most competitive teams. He played for Santa Monica High School, and then became a scholarship athlete, breaking several records, on the Sacra...mento State University’s football team. His work ethic and athletic abilities, fostered as a young member, have transitioned him into his career as a professional football player for teams in Italy, Germany, Austria, and now in Japan for the Asahi Soft Drink Challengers where he won League MVP and Newcomer of the Year. Garrett says It was a one-of-a-kind experience, THE best basketball league I played in, and a place where I felt comfortable outside of school. I learned from the older guys and it grew me into who I am today. THANK YOU FOR BEING AN INSPIRATION TO OUR YOUTH! #greatfutures #smbgc #alumni

Embrace uncertainty, some of the most beautiful chapters in our lives won't have titles until much later. Bob Goff

It’s that time of year and we’ve gone VIRTUAL. JOIN US FOR OUR VIRTUAL GALA DECEMBER 5th | 5:30pm An Evening to Support Our Youth & Our Community... PURCHASE TICKETS: $150 www.smbgc.org/gala SPONSORSHIP: contact [email protected] Enjoy inspiring mission moments, live & silent auctions, dynamic testimonials & compelling videos. Special guest performances 400+ leaders and influencers Powerful youth presentation During these challenging times, our Club members have been disproportionately affected by recent educational and economic shifts. Our team has pivoted to deliver programs to kids online and in person pods. We’re providing our families with technology access for school AND emergency assistance for rent, bills, food and medicine. With your continued support, we’ve provided our families with: 85k+ hot meals 8.5k+ produce & grain boxes $120k in financial assistance Daily in-person distance learning support Please GIVE to help our members who need ongoing support for school and home. PURCHASE TICKETS: $150 www.smbgc.org/gala Thank you to our generous sponsors: OneWest Bank Lexus Santa Monica | Lacarguy Family Of Dealerships #GreatFutures #smbgc

Inhale tacos, exhale negativity. #nationaltacoday #smbgc

Meet GG, one of our Youth Development Professionals. As a young person, she fell behind in school, was attending a continuation high school and needed guidance. She visited Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica where she was inspired by staff to get involved in various programs eventually receiving a Youth of the Year award. GG’s interactions guiding younger members, turned into a passion and career path. After getting her college degree in early childhood development, GG jo...ined our Clubs to help lead by example. She’s simultaneously pursuing her nursing degree while helping students in our community find their passion. We’re one giant family. I want the kids to know that we’re here for them. They all come from different backgrounds, but it’s important for the Club to be a constant force. said GG. Ian Keiller, our Chief Operating Officer: GG is the smiling face that acknowledges all those that make up the vast support network that serve our youth. She is the teammate that everyone can rely on and gets things done. She fosters respect, trust and accountability with her colleagues, families, school and community so they know their young person is in a safe, productive and caring environment. THANK YOU GG! Your support is critical to our success. Help our staff get the materials they need to teach our members. Amazon Wish List: https://amzn.to/35vArhW GIVE: https://www.smbgc.org/give/ #GreatFutures #smbgc

The new school year has brought many challenges to our members and their families, however, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Monica strives to be a safe place for kids to gather and learn. We are hosting both in-person and virtual programming led by our highly trained youth development professionals. Currently, we have about 120 members in learning pods at two locations, but have the capacity to safely double enrollment with your help. With your support, we'll be able to: ... - Increase our capacity - Expand staff hours - Provide professional development - Add scholarship opportunities - Boost nutritional support through snacks & lunches - Purchase personal protective equipment & sanitation supplies - Develop partnership opportunities with local schools Make an Impact. https://www.smbgc.org/give/ #GreatFutures #boysandgirlsclub #smbgc #donations

HIGH FIVES TO OUR MEMBERS! Old Navy recently held a virtual career fair and had THIS to say about our students: Being a part of this Virtual Fair was truly a pleasure. This Group of youth was prepared, so thoughtful and super passionate about telling their stories and how they have learned to thrive in the face of adversity. These teens showed up in a big way and represented all the amazingness Boys & Girls Club has to offer youth but also an Organization like Gap Inc. Than...kful to have been a part of this! Great job! Way to represent. Is your company or organization interested in supporting our youth? CONTACT: [email protected] GIVE: https://www.smbgc.org/give-2/ #GreatFutures #smbgc

Parents, this one's for you! Join us this Wednesday afternoon for an inspiring virtual conversation about how to keep kids engaged in our present reality. Featuring Esteemed Panelists: Aaron Dworkin CEO National Summer Learning Association Perry Kalmus Co-Founder of AKALA... Lorraine Orr COO Boys & Girls Clubs of America Moderated by our very own Emily Ausbrook, Santa Monica Boys & Girls Clubs Chief Executive Officer. Reserve your spot for "Keeping Kids Engaged & Excited" here: https://www.smbgc.org/events/fireside-chats/ You won't want to miss this one! Register for FREE now. #GreatFutures #smbgc #virtualevent

The more things change, the more they stay the same. Alphonse Karr #GreatFutures #smbgc