SOMERSET COUNTY – The Boys and Girls Club of Somerset County is supporting other groups in its area – and teaching its young people some invaluable lessons.

Through its Learning to Give Back program, the BGC made a priority last year of helping club members become young philanthropists. Children ages 6-18, involved with the Club’s after-school program, gave back to their community through a wide range of charitable activities.

Here are just a few of the kids’ projects:
– Made dog treats for the Humane Society of Somerset County
– Held a canned food drive for the Salvation Army Food Pantry
– Decorated mini Christmas trees for residents for the Next Step Center
– Made Valentine’s flowers for residents of the Somerset Senior Center

The Community Foundation for the Alleghenies provided funding for the program, which benefited an estimated 365 people and 30 dogs throughout Somerset County. Through activities such as these, young people are learning about compassion, community involvement, and the simple joy of helping someone else.

The BGC’s after-school program provides a safe, supervised, place for kids to play and learn during midweek afternoons and evenings. Go to the BGC website to find out more about the organization and its programs.