FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 24, 2005

CONTACTS: 
Lindsey Edmondson, Director, Public Relations, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, 404-487-5868
Daryl Ann Borel, Executive Director of Grant Administration, 409-838-1812         

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS’ YOUTHS OF THE YEAR TO RECEIVE LAPTOPS FROM THE BEAUMONT FOUNDATION OF AMERICA

May 24, 2005 (Beaumont, TX)— The Beaumont Foundation of America (BFA) and Boys & Girls Clubs of America today announced that state-of-the-art laptops will be provided to all Boys & Girls Clubs’ Youth of the Year state-level winners.  A total of 53 Youths of the Year, including winners from all 50 U.S. states, Washington, D.C., and U.S. military bases in Europe and Asia, will receive the laptops and other associated equipment, valued at $1,800 each. 

“Providing young leaders a tool to enhance their education and honor their commitment to service is what this Foundation is about,” said BFA’s President and CEO, Frank Newton.

“The gift of laptops for our Youth of the Year winners exemplifies the Beaumont Foundation of America’s commitment to ensuring our Club members have equal opportunities and resources to achieve their dreams,” said BGCA’s President, Roxanne Spillett.

BGCA’s Youth of the Year program, sponsored by The Reader’s Digest Foundation, is in its 58th year. The program recognizes outstanding contributions to a member’s family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club, as well as personal challenges and obstacles overcome.

Since 2003, BFA has awarded more than $13 million in technology equipment to more than 500 Clubs in an effort to help bridge the digital divide. The Beaumont Foundation of America (www.bmtfoundation.com) grants state-of-the-art, wireless laptop computers and technology equipment to schools and community groups serving low-income populations and individuals. The Foundation believes computer and Internet technologies are the essential tools for progress in the 21st century, and that given access to digital information, people will have a more equal opportunity to advance socially, economically and intellectually.

Boys & Girls Clubs of America (www.bgca.org) comprises a national network of some 3,700 neighborhood-based facilities annually serving more than 4.4 million young people, primarily from disadvantaged circumstances.  Known as “The Positive Place for Kids,” the Clubs provide guidance-oriented character development programs on a daily basis for children 6-18 years old, conducted by a full-time professional staff.  Key Boys & Girls Club programs emphasize character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills, the arts, sports, fitness and recreation.