Linda Daly, Chairman of the Boys and Girls Committee

By BROOKE DAVIS
Kiwanis Club

At the June 2 Kiwanis meeting, Linda Daly, Chairman of the Boys and Girls Committee gave an update on their volunteer and financial support for youth programs serving the Los Alamos Community.

Applications are accepted throughout the year. Using a simple one-page form, applicants are asked to describe the projects, programs, and/or services for which they are requesting funding, including the number of children to be served, and the amount asked for. The Committee then works within their budget to allocate the funds, which usually range from $400 to $1500.

So far this year, Kiwanis has awarded $5600 in grants that went to the following:

• Los Alamos Little League: Upgrading equipment such as helmets, bats and balls as well as field improvements.
• Family Strengths Network: Purchasing supplies for Build It Day, a program that provides interactive building experiences that promote caregiver-child bonding.
• Youth Activity Centers: Supporting the summer field trip program that gives children safe, structured opportunities to explore cultural, educational and recreational destinations.
• Los Alamos History Museum: Assisting in funding two summer history day camps that provide hands-on activities such as secret message writing and creating a Ranch School camping kit.
• Barranca Mesa PTO: Support the Bookworms Read-a-Thon program by purchasing Bookfair coupons awarded to students who reach their reading goals.
• Pinon PTO: In conjunction with the Family Fun Run fundraising event, purchasing field equipment, classroom supplies for teachers, and helping to fund field trips.
• Yes In My Backyard (YIMBY) Film Festival: Funding support for costs associated with the youth-oriented, family-friendly adventure film event, the proceeds of which benefit the Tuff Tykes mountain bike program.
• The Family YMCA: Funding support for Senior Appreciation Night carnival-style prizes and giveaways.

As reported by the applicants, the grants this year have or will support over 1500 children in Los Alamos.