Boys & Girls Club asks Madison County for $10,000 to sustain after‑school programs

Leaders of the Madison Boys & Girls Club told the Board of Supervisors that the organization has grown from 25 children in 2008 to more than 250 members annually and serves about 100 children during the school year. Advisory board president Mike Cashman and Central office representative Kalinda Beal said the club provides daily 'power hour' homework help, STEM and arts programming, physical activities and workforce‑readiness events and that operating costs have risen.

"As our program grows and more children come through our doors, our expenses are only increasing," Cashman said, noting that the club now pays $15,000 a year for the use of the Waverly Owl facility. He asked the county to approve a funding proposal of $10,000 to support operations and keep membership fees low for families.

Why it matters: The club serves a large share of Madison school‑age children and provides child care and enrichment that support parents’ employment; board members and visiting supervisors praised staff and volunteers and noted the club’s role in community stability.

Board follow-up: Supervisors asked about program structure, meal provision and how central offices support Madison operations; presenters said membership fees cover only about 2% of operating costs and that administrative support and grant assistance come from the Central Virginia organization. The board did not vote on the town’s request at the workshop.

Ending: Club leaders thanked the board for past support and requested the county include the ask in budget discussions.