In the Beginning
How the Boys & Girls Club of Farmington Started
In the late 50’s and early 60’s Farmington, New Mexico was a boomtown. Oil and gas workers from all over the United States were coming into town to cash in on the abundant energy resources. Along with the influx of workers came families and children. Schools became overcrowded and the community was not prepared for after school and weekend activities for children.
In 1960 a group of concerned citizens saw a need for a place to keep boys active and out of mischief. The first Clubhouse was located at 214 West Animas in a small site that provided boxing as the main club activity. Kids from all over Farmington participated in the games room, the trampoline, golden gloves and other activities.
In March of 1961, the Board of Directors purchased the old American Legion hall at 1825 Legion Avenue. This new, yet well-used site presented many new and exciting opportunities for program development and growth. In July of the same year
The Club became a chartered member of the Boys Club of America. The Club grew in membership to an estimated 600 children per year. The gradual growth and success of the club, combined with the planned addition of girls programs stretched the facilities even then.
In the mid 70’s girl’s basketball, cheerleading and summer activities for girls became a part of every day club activities. The Club formally changed the name to Boys & Girls Club in 1989. By 1993, the Club was serving in excess of 2,100 children and truly bulging at the seams. The increased numbers of children and the need for more programming caused the board of directors to seriously consider the future habitat of the organization. A new Club with more space and service capabilities became the rally cry.
The City of Farmington had successfully increased gross receipts taxes for the purpose of creating much needed recreation projects for the citizens. The Club’s board saw an opportunity to collaborate with the city in the creation of a new clubhouse. The City of Farmington and the Board of Directors joined forces and in March of 1993, the citizens supported a vote to reinstate a ¼% gross receipts tax. This paved the way for a new 31,000 square foot facility, which was completed and dedicated on November 17, 1997.
Affiliated with the New Mexico Council of twenty three Boys & Girls Clubs and a nation wide networking system of over 4,000 Clubs serving over two and a half million youth, the Boys & Girls Club of Farmington has become an effective leader in the field of youth development work. Because of the hard work and financial support of many dedicated people the Boys & Girls Club of Farmington will continue to provide quality services just as it has since 1960.
With the help of our donors, community, schools, the city, etc., we now serve nearly 3,000 children and their families each year.
We do this through:
- After School Programs
- Sports Programs
- Summer Programs
- Teen Programs
- Healthy Lifestyle Programs
- Academic Programs
- Leadership Program
- Arts & Music Programs
- STEM Programs
- And more!
The Promise and Challenge
We believe in a place that puts our mission into practice. Our Club has trained professionals who provide guidance and supervision. They teach and serve as positive role models for our Club kids’ sense of belonging, self-esteem, social engagement and intellectual curiosity.
Our Club is especially thankful to have our community partners and supporters. We simply could not do this work without them, our community schools, our businesses, and our dedicated public safety and health teams. Between our professionals and our partners we are able to impart practical and problem solving skills, new knowledge, and the courage for kids to overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. We promise to continue to do our best. We appreciate all the support for helping us make sure “Great Futures Start Here.”