By JACQI LEYVA-HILL
Special to the NEWS
A newly renovated space at the Boys & Girls Club of San Benito, through a partnership with the Panda Cares Foundation and an area Panda Express, is providing local youth with a dedicated place for academic enrichment, wellness, and positive development.
The Panda Cares Center of Hope was created after the Boys & Girls Club of San Benito applied for an opportunity offered by the Panda Cares Foundation and Boys & Girls Clubs of America. The Club was selected to receive $45,000 to renovate and create the space.
“The Panda Cares Center of Hope is a newly renovated space at the Boys & Girls Club of San Benito, designed to provide our members with a dedicated place to learn, grow, and focus on their academic and overall well-being,” said Liz Chavez, Boys & Girls Club of San Benito CEO.
Chavez said the center was designed around Club members’ needs, combining academic enrichment and learning areas with spaces that support health, wellness, and physical activity.
Youth will be able to use the center for homework help, tutoring, high-impact programs, and other activities designed to strengthen skills and keep members engaged in school. Chavez said the space also supports the “whole child” by incorporating opportunities that promote health, wellness, and positive development.
“This investment has the potential to make an impact on the hundreds of members we serve,” Chavez said.
Representatives from Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Panda Cares Foundation attended the grand opening, along with local Panda Express employees, city leaders, members of the Club’s Board of Directors, supporters, and representatives from other local organizations. Club members also participated in the celebration, and Panda Express provided food for attendees.
Chavez said one of the most meaningful moments came during her welcoming remarks, when she became emotional while reflecting on the Club’s growth and the community members around her.
“It was more than a ribbon cutting; it was a moment to celebrate how far we’ve come and look forward to where we’re going next,” she said.
Looking ahead, Chavez said she hopes the Center of Hope offers opportunities for the youth and families served by the Club and provides members with a safe, welcoming environment where they can learn, build confidence, form friendships, and build relationships with trusted mentors.
She also emphasized that the Boys & Girls Club depends on community involvement. Residents can support the organization by volunteering, contributing to programs, donating, partnering as a business, or learning more about the Club’s work.
“When we invest in our kids, we’re investing in the future of San Benito,” Chavez said.
The Boys & Girls Club of San Benito prioritizes children through a range of enriching activities. According to its website, the Boys & Girls Club specializes in the arts, health and wellness, workforce readiness, sports, and much more.
The Boys & Girls Club of San Benito is located at 410 N. Stookey Rd., San Benito. For more information, call (956) 399-6442.