The Weidner Cares Team and The Boys & Girls Club[/caption] The Weidner Cares team in Washington recently partnered with the Smilow Rainier Vista Boys & Girls Club in South Seattle. This was the largest Weidner Cares event ever organized in the Washington region with nearly 200 volunteers revamping a 44,000 square foot facility. The Boys & Girls Clubs mission is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. Fun is just the beginning at the Clubs. Our nationally recognized programs and activities impact children in three vital ways: Academic successImproving grades, reducing high school drop-out rates and teaching kids to see themselves as learners. Good character and citizenshipEncouraging community service, reducing juvenile crime rates and instilling an attitude of engagement. Healthy lifestylesTeaching healthy behaviors, reducing drug use and childhood obesity and fostering positive self-images. The Weidner volunteers painted nearly the entire facility and added inspirational wall decals throughout the club so that the children can see positive messages throughout their day there. In the teen lounge area a new TV was added, and the whole space got a fresh coat of paint. Lockers were also added so the kids can store their personal items while playing basketball or studying. The team also added a sink to the existing café area to create a more functional space, and allow for the selling and serving of food. The art room had fallen into disarray over the past 10 years, so the Weidner team stepped in and organized, cleaned and updated it. The team also helped paint, clean, and update the kitchen area where more than 80,000 hot meals were served to children in 2016 alone. The grounds were in much need of some loving care as well. The Weidner Cares team helped landscape and pressure wash the outdoor areas and added some fun sidewalk games including Twister and Hopscotch. They also cleaned and organized the outdoor storage areas and cleaned out a dumpster enclosure that was becoming a safety issue. Lonzel Hill, Club Executive Director commented, Thank you again for your time and energy on your Day of Caring. Our community is a better place because of awesome companies like Weidner. We appreciate the opportunity to contribute our time and efforts to an organization that makes such a difference in the lives of children. A big thank you to all who participated in this inspirational and important event! -The Weidner Team
