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“I love everything about family night!” Declan, a Verda James Club kid, shouted excitedly as he showed off his project. “I get to do cool stuff with my mom, then take the projects home, too.”

Declan showcased his melty beads in the shape of a horse with a proud grin. Such pure joy from this third-grader reaffirmed the reason the Club has Family Nights: to support the bond and happiness of Club kids and their families.

Family nights at the Club have been happening every month at each Club site throughout the year and are a favorite for our Club families. “Family Night’s allow us to get to know the staff better and we get to bond as a family over these fun projects,” said Declan’s mom, Sausha.

Every Family night features a special activity, whether it be melty beads, painting, holiday activities, or exploring outer space. “During Family Nights we want to engage the families through activities like art or science,” stated Verda James Branch Director, Cody Stanton. “It’s always rewarding whether two or ten families participate. It’s all about the kids and the memories they take away from this.”

There was a year and a half break in Family Nights Club-wide due to COVID restrictions. A Verda James Club parent, Matt, expressed the impact of not having Family Nights. “We never wanted them to stop, but we’re just relieved they started back up again. My son looks forward to these events each time because I get to be part of this with him.”

Brittany, a fellow VJ Club parent, added, “I think it’s just great to have Family Nights again. It’s also fun for the younger siblings because they get to see the Club and where their big siblings go. This is something our entire family enjoys because we focus solely on our time together.”

At the Club, we strive to inspire all youth to reach their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. We understand quality time with loved ones impacts a child’s self-confidence and sense of belonging. Not only do Family Nights support those healthy relationships, it also invites the entire family to interact with the Club staff and meet their Club friends.