Cheers & Kudos for April 4

Last week, a quiet celebration was held at the corner of Hot Springs and North Gate. Well it wasn't that quiet as about 45 youth can actually be quite noisy. The noise was due to the fun they were having prior to working on homework at the site of the Mobile Recreation Unit that has been visiting the site for one year now.

The program is a collaboration with Partnership Carson City Gang Prevention Task Force, Carson City Chamber of Commerce Quality of Life Committee, District Attorney Neil Rombardo and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Nevada. Over 100 youth that reside in the Tiger Drive area have taken advantage of the "fun with a purpose" programs that are being offered.

A special recognition to site director Albert Jacquez for his dedication to the kids and the program. Albert and his staff have maneuvered through all sorts of challenges to bring this program to a segment of Carson City youth that, for a variety of reasons, are left to the wayside.

The sheriff reported to me this week that he is very pleased with the results from our presence. Some will be surprised at this, but actual calls to his office have increased in this past year, but that is seen as a positive as these calls are for issues that were not made in the past. So it can be deduced that an increase in trust has occurred.

The committee is exploring expanding the program to other parts of town, but will not abandon this site and the youth who have come to rely upon the program for fun, sports, educational support and positive relationships with caring adults.

Hal Hansen

chief professional officer

Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Nevada