At Boys & Girls Clubs of King County, we’ve seen how scholarships can be transformative for families. For some, the word “scholarship” might carry an initial stigma, a feeling of being ‘less than’ for needing financial support. But over time, perspectives often change, as families realize that scholarships aren’t just financial assistance—they’re opportunities for growth, belonging, and empowerment.

Through our scholarship program, youth gain access to essential experiences like after-school programming, Summer Camp, Athletics, and more. These opportunities open doors, leveling the playing field and ensuring that every child, regardless of financial circumstances, can participate in Club activities.

For many families, scholarships ease the financial strain and lift the burden of worry and guilt about not being able to afford these enriching experiences for their children. The support enables kids to thrive, explore their interests, and make long life friends—all while their families feel the relief of knowing they’re included and supported in our Club community.

For families like Heather Smith’s, these scholarships are a bridge to stability and joy—a lifeline that supports their journey toward a brighter future. Heather is a single mother in recovery who provides outreach to others through community and systems, driven by a deep desire to provide the best possible life for her three young children.

With scholarship assistance, Heather’s children have found a home at the Club, where they participate in after-school programming, athletics, and arts activities. The Club provides them with a safe, fun, and inclusive environment, allowing Heather to focus on her work and continue her education, knowing her kids are in a positive space. “Kirkland Boys & Girls Club gives my children a safe, fun, and exclusive place for them to be while I’m working,” Heather says. “As a single mom of three grade-school children, we’re blessed to have a grant available for my children. My kids’ favorite part of the day is going to their Club after school. They love their Club team members and teachers, and they always talk about how much fun they have!”

Heather’s children thrive at the Club. Her daughter, Lexcie loves meeting her teachers, who she describes as “so nice,” while Rone’s favorite part of the day is playing carpetball and outside with friends. Even Heather’s youngest, Ari, can’t wait to join as a “Club kid,” insisting on going inside every day to “check out the fun inside the Club.” Heather shares, “True story, every day I pick them up, I have to park so Ari can go inside to play for a bit before we leave.”

For Heather, the support her family has found at the Club has extended beyond the programs and activities. It’s created a sense of belonging; “I would say the community we have built—it’s like a second home for them,” she says. This sense of community and support gives Heather and her children encouragement and stability.

Thanks to the generosity of donors, families like Heather’s are no longer left feeling excluded because of financial barriers. Scholarships give families peace of mind and empower children to fully participate in Club activities, which helps them grow and discover their potential.

Your support makes this possible. Every donation, every dollar, helps provide more scholarships to families in need, ensuring that no child is turned away. When you give, you’re not just donating; you’re helping families build a brighter future and creating a community that feels like home. Together, we’re transforming lives, one scholarship at a time.