News release
From surprise Santa arrivals to stacks of gifts waiting for young hands, the Santa Clarita Valley Boys & Girls Club delivered holiday cheer on a large scale this season — reaching hundreds of children and teens throughout the SCV, including clubhouses in Canyon Country, Newhall, Val Verde and Castaic, the nonprofit said in a news release.
Throughout December, club members participated in activities that blended holiday joy with community service. Teen leaders in the Keystone program volunteered at Valencia Town Center, offering free gift wrapping to shoppers. The project gave teens a chance to build leadership skills, interact with the public, and support programs that prepare them for future careers, with all donations benefiting local youth development efforts, the release said.
Keystone teens also partnered with the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station to bake and deliver cupcakes to a local senior center.
At the James T. Ventress Clubhouse in Newhall, a Santa float — provided by the Castaic Lions Club — rolled in to the excitement of young members. Children met Santa, selected gifts, enjoyed warm hot chocolate, and eagerly shared their new toys with friends.
A similar celebration took place at the Thomas E. Dierckman Clubhouse in Canyon Country, where Santa made a special appearance and children received holiday gifts of their own.
Through the Club’s Adopt a Family initiative, households received gifts for every family member. Some families even received special doorstep deliveries from Santa himself.
Creative expression also played a major role in the festivities. Across club sites, members took part in holiday-themed arts and crafts, filling rooms with color, imagination and winter-themed cheer.
“Seeing the joy on the faces of our kids this season has been incredible,” Matt Nelson, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of SCV, said in the release. “The holidays can be a challenging time for many families, and our goal is always to make sure every child feels supported, celebrated and cared for. The community’s generosity made that possible.”
Founded in 1968, the Boys & Girls Club of SCV provides local youth with academic support, enrichment programs, mentorship and a welcoming second home. Membership is $60 a year for the first child and $45 for each additional sibling, with scholarships available. To get involved or learn more, visit www.scvbgc.org.
