MOSES LAKE - A $15,000 grant brings the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Columbia Basin closer to building a new clubhouse, possibly this summer.

The Staples Foundation for Learning gave the grant to the clubs this week.

"This new facility will have a dedicated teen space," commented Brant Mayo, the club's executive director. "This will allow us to run new programs and services designed for the teen members."

The existing downtown club on Third Avenue, in downtown Moses Lake, and a second location on Arnold Street, do not have space for teens.

"It is a demographic we want to have more impact with," Mayo stated.

In both locations, activities are provided for more than 200 youth per day.

They also learn about character and leadership development, "while increasing their community service participation and future academic and employment opportunities," he explained. 

The grant application started with the manager of the Moses Lake Staples store, Kevin Donovan.

Staples supports the club with donations, but wanted to go further, Donovan explained.

"I wanted to do something more specific for the local club," he said. "Hopefully, it will help them get a little closer to their goal, to building their new facility."

Staples staff members bring their children to the club, he explained.

"We're so excited to help Boys & Girls Clubs of the Columbia Basin make after-school programs that make a positive impact available to more youth throughout the community," stated Amy Shanler, director of community relations for Staples.  

"Staples Foundation is committed to supporting Boys & Girls Clubs of the Columbia Basin as they work hard to provide phenomenal academic and enrichment programs that help local youth reach their full potential," she added.

Last year, the clubs started the public portion of their capital campaign to raise $1.5 million for its new clubhouse.

The site is located next to Park Orchard Elementary School, on Paxson Drive, in Moses Lake. The school is set to open this fall.