As part of its expanding green initiative, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County (BGCMC) is going solar at their Salinas and Seaside clubhouse locations. The Salinas Club will convert to solar energy by March of this year. Solar installation at the Seaside Clubhouse is expected to be completed by the start of the summer.
Going solar is just one example of the organization’s efforts to model environmental stewardship in underserved communities. Other green practices include use of drought-resistant plants for landscaping, a water catchment and storage system, composting, and recycling. BGCMC will save an estimated $3,068,797 in energy costs over the 25-year life of the system.
The solar system installation costs for the Salinas Clubhouse, a 42,000 square foot facility located near Rabobank Stadium, total $250,000. The Harden Foundation provided 100 percent of the funding. Project costs for the Seaside Clubhouse, a 24,000 square foot center operating in a densely populated area, total $190,000. The Hayward Foundation has issued a $100,000 challenge match gift toward that project. Ernie and Gunde Posey pledged $50,000 toward that challenge.
“With the Hayward Foundation challenge gift, we are already more than halfway there,” said Ron Johnson, BGCMC Associate Vice President. “The solar energy system will be a visual example of our commitment to a green environment for our youth. We are looking to partner with additional funders who will join us in fulfilling the match.”
To discuss funding opportunities, please contact Andrea Scott, Director of Development, at ascott@bgcmc.org.
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County (BGCMC) has played an integral role in the community for over 49 years. BGCMC operates Clubhouses in Seaside and Salinas, providing a safe haven for over 600 children and teens a day with programs that focus on Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles, Good Character & Leadership. Club members are offered mentoring and guidance to maintain on-grade school progression, graduate from high school, and prepare for college and careers. Nearly 90% of the total budget comes from generous individuals, corporations and foundations. The Clubs are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. during summer and school breaks, and from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. when school is in session. Additional information is available at www.bgcmc.org or via phone at 831-394-5171.
