Posted on July 14, 2025
GAINESVILLE, GA — July 11, 2025 – Local after-school programs that provide a safe space for children in Hall, Habersham, and Forsyth counties are at risk due to a recent federal funding freeze. The freeze of more than $6 billion in federal education grants includes 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grants, which provides $3 million to help Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier (BGCL) operate afterschool programs.
“Without these dollars, which were already approved by Congress, we’re not sure how long we can continue to provide academic support and mentoring services to help families and create great futures for kids in the communities we serve,” said BGCL’s Chief Executive Officer, Steve Mickens. “Our organization helps more than 1,500 kids and teens each day, and they don’t deserve to have that help taken away.”
For the past 14 years, BGCL has received funding through the 21st Century grant. The dollars allow BGCL to provide one-on-one tutoring, transportation from schools to clubs and transportation home, enhanced educational opportunities, and make its programming affordable to more than 500 kids each day.
“Our data shows that 100% of Club members who participate regularly go on to graduate high school,” says Mickens. “And data from the Boys and Girls Clubs of America has found students served with the help of 21st Century Grants show better attendance, stronger engagement, and improved academic outcomes – with 70% completing more homework and nearly half overcoming chronic absenteeism.”
Now BGCL is asking for the community’s support in a call-to-action to Congress. You can help by calling your Congressional representatives today and urging them to act immediately to restore and release the 21st Century funding already allocated. There are resources to help you contact members of Congress at bgca.quorum.us/campaign/115081/.
To donate, support or learn more about the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier, visit boysandgirlsclubs.com or connect with our Resource Development team at (770) 532-8102. For interviews, questions and media inquiries, email media@bgclanier.org.
###
ABOUT BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF LANIER
Created in 1954, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier’s mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier serve more than 4,700 children in the Hall, Habersham, and Forsyth counties each year. Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.