MASSENA -- The Boys and Girls Club of Massena still needs to raise roughly $120,000 before they can begin renovations at their permanent clubhouse on Bayley Road.

The club is pursing a New York State Dormitory Authority grant, and they need to spend at least a quarter of a million dollars, according to club Chief Professional Officer Debra Donatto.

“The Dormitory Authority grant is a reimbursement grant, which means that we need to spend the money first,” explains Donatto, “Then, we mail the receipts to Albany, and they reimburse us for the expenditure. We have to raise $250,000 to be able to maximize our reimbursement opportunity.”

The club is still waiting for final approval from New York State on the Dormitory Authority grant they applied for last year. Once the grant application makes it through the approval process, renovations can begin, Donatto said.

“If they can fully fund those purchases ahead of time, the state’s reimbursement can be banked and support operations for years to come,” according to Donatto, adding that the club has about $130,000 in its coffers thus far.

The Boys and Girls Club of Massena is gearing up for the new school year with an expanded program. This year, BGCM will provide afterschool activities to children in grades three to six at both Jefferson and Madison elementary schools.

Nearly 1,000 membership forms have been delivered to Massena elementary schools with an expectation of at least 300 children joining, according to the CPO.

“The club offers programming that enhances academics, promotes teamwork and leadership, and offsets sedentary screen time keeping kids active,” Donatto said. “During our part time pilot program last year, we had 157 kids enrolled, and 88 had improved their grades by the end of the school year. This summer, we had an amazing group of teens who participated in our Teen Adventure Club. They enjoyed it so much they want to stay part of the club. They are still volunteering to represent the Club doing community service at local events.”