The Boys & Girls Club of Detroit Lakes and Perham, which has been a beacon of support for youth in Becker and Otter Tail counties, is now looking to expand into Fergus Falls. A public information meeting will be held on **Monday, September 30th**, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Roosevelt Education Center in Fergus Falls, where the club’s leadership will discuss plans for the new location, programming goals, and its partnership with the Fergus Falls School District.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Detroit Lakes and Perham currently serve over **850 children** in the region, providing crucial services such as before- and after-school care, summer programs, and teen events. These programs focus on academic success, healthy lifestyles, and good character development, helping children build self-esteem and develop life skills.
In Perham, the club started small in 2011 but has grown to serve over **300 children** today. The success of this model has been driven by the support of local businesses and community partnerships, which have allowed for multiple expansions to accommodate growing demand. Similarly, the club in Detroit Lakes has seen tremendous growth in attendance, with school-year participation increasing by over **200%** and summer programming expanding by nearly **90%** in recent years. The clubs play an essential role in providing a safe, nurturing environment for youth, helping them reach their full potential.
By bringing a Boys & Girls Club to Fergus Falls, the organization hopes to meet the community’s growing need for structured, supportive programming for school-age children. The expansion will offer families more options for affordable, high-quality child care and youth development programs that have already proven successful in neighboring areas.
For more information, attend the public meeting on September 30th or visit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Detroit Lakes and Perham’s official website www.bgcdl.org