Federal funding freeze threatens future of Boys & Girls Clubs in Arkansas

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. —A federal funding freeze could soon jeopardize after-school programs across the country — including the Billy Mitchell Boys and Girls Club in Little Rock — leaving parents and staff deeply concerned about what the future holds for Arkansas youth.

For Adriann Webb, the impact of the club is personal and generational. Her son began attending the Billy Mitchell Boys and Girls Club back in 2006, finding a safe place to study after school, build friendships and develop a passion for basketball.

That passion eventually earned him a college scholarship to Abilene Christian University and a degree.

“If it wasn’t there for my son, there’s no telling where he would be,” Webb said. “It filled a hole. A void I needed as a single mom.”

Today, her grandson also attends the club. But Webb now fears for the future of the very organization that helped shape two generations of her family.

Their concerns come amid a freeze by the U.S. Department of Education on the release of $1.3 billion in 21st Century Community Learning Centers grants — funds that help support after-school academic enrichment across the nation. Arkansas was set to receive $2 million from the program. Without it, club leaders say critical services may be scaled back or eliminated entirely.

“So many kids say the club saved their life,” said Cindy Doramus, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Central Arkansas. “If the club hadn’t been there, they wouldn’t be where they are today.”

Doramus says the funding freeze could significantly affect their ability to offer after-school tutoring, STEM enrichment, meals, career exploration and other vital programs. With five club locations serving about 7,000 children annually in Little Rock, North Little Rock and surrounding communities she says the potential impact is enormous.

“We’re often the one-stop shop for kids in neighborhoods that need us most,” Doramus said. “They come here for a meal, homework help, a safe place to play — and most importantly, guidance.”

In response to the uncertainty, the organization has intensified its fundraising efforts. Through campaigns like the “Victory Over Violence Telethon” in partnership with FOX 16 and KARK, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Arkansas are rallying community support to sustain their mission.

“Funding today is not what it was a few years ago,” Doramus added. “With federal sources drying up, we’re pushing harder than ever to diversify our funding and let the community know how urgent this need is.”

For many parents, these clubs are more than just after-school programs — they’re lifelines. Webb, an educator herself, warns of the alternative: children left unsupervised, exposed to negative influences and missing opportunities that could change their lives.

“There aren’t enough positive activities for our young people,” Webb said. “With the violence our youth are facing today, the loss of the Boys and Girls Club would be devastating for families — and for the community.”

As lawmakers and federal officials deliberate the future of funding, those on the frontlines hope their voices — and the stories of thousands of children served — will be heard.

“Every child deserves a chance to succeed,” said Doramus. “We’re committed to being here for them. But we can’t do it alone.”

For those looking to help out, volunteers and teams from KARK and FOX 16 will be answering phones during our newscasts throughout the day, from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday