Boys and Girls Club of Chester receives $500k donation to improve programming

(WPHL)– While many families look for ways to keep their kids busy over the summer, the Boys and Girls Club, Chester, summer days begin with a line dancin’ dance party.

“My favorite thing to do is usually when we have fun in the gym,” said Malia Sukati. “We usually get to go on computers, go in the game room, we get to listen to music and stuff, or we get to have free time and play all around the building.”

Hundreds of children at the Boys & Girls Club, Chester explore a variety of activities.

“I never knew I liked to cook until I came here, said club teen Phoenix Stewart.

From cooking to gardening to swimming, the club is celebrating 95 years of fun.

“Even having fun you’re learning. You’re learning how to work together, discipline, control, and all these educational things are added into that,” said Derrick T. Billups Sr., CEO Boys & Girls Club, Chester.

A former tennis player and financial analyst, the Billips focuses on STEM activities and games–experiences made possible by Chester-based company Power Home Remodeling.

“We have employees who live here, who work here, who grew up in these streets, and also attended this club,” said Jim Myers, Community Impact Manager, POWER. “I see a lot of energy. I see a lot of hope and a lot of just vibrancy. And to be able to have our people activated and give back to a space like this and give them programing in a space that they deserve, is something we’re really proud for.”

When Power Home Remodeling is not building houses, they’re building upon a safe environment for the children of Chester to grow through their corporate program: Power for Good.

The club’s impact in nurturing the neighborhood.

“The kids keep coming back,” Billups said. “As long as they keep coming back, that tells us we’re doing the right thing. Once they get 16, then they can come and work here. Sometimes it’s their first job. We’re teaching them how to work, how to handle responsibilities, and how to handle a check.”

Growing within the club is a path some club teens look forward to.

“When I turn 16, I’ll come and be a counselor for the summer camp especially because of how long I’ve been here, I want to help other people get to where I am now,” Stewart said.