Community matches donor’s pledge

Members of the community responded generously to one Blaine resident’s fundraising challenge in support of the Blaine Boys and Girls clubhouse.

In late September, an anonymous donor in Blaine called for donations to match the $20,000 she was pledging to the Blaine Boys and Girls clubhouse. Those interested in donating had a deadline of November 30 to match the $20,000.

In a December 9 news release, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Whatcom County announced that the Blaine community responded generously to the challenge by exceeding the goal and raising an additional $24,850 on top of the anonymous donor’s original $20,000 pledge.

“The Boys and Girls Clubs of Whatcom County continue to be committed to leading the way in Blaine, ensuring that every young person who enters the club has an opportunity to achieve a great future,” said Heather Powell, chief executive officer of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Whatcom County. “With the community’s support, the Blaine clubhouse can open its doors every day after school to 218 members. Together, we do whatever it takes to make it possible for every child in Blaine to reach their full potential.”

According to a Boys and Girls Club spokesperson, the new funds will be invested locally. “The funds will be used at our Blaine club to support all of our programming initiatives, with an emphasis on academic success and healthy lifestyles,” said the spokesperson.