We are half way through our summer and our kids and families are so happy to be back in the building. We continue to accommodate more families and are currently at capacity with 60 spaces filled. We plan to expand in August to serve an additional 24 children and will be creating a special space for our youngest Club Members in Kindergarten and 1st grade. We are hearing similar things from parents like Keri,
“Beyond words. I am truly grateful you opened. It has been so stressful wondering how to care for our son when I went back to work full time in May. Thank you so much!
Thank you to all of you who help keep our doors open with your support.
This summer has also brought loss to the Boys & Girls Club of Vista with the passing of former Executive Director Howard Amend and now his wife Anne Amend. Anne will be remembered for her longtime service to the Club’s Woman’s Auxiliary and as a dedicated Club photographer. She was a Rancho Minerva school nurse and also very active with Girl Scouts and the Vista Historical Society. Howard was affiliated with Boys & Girls Clubs since he joined the Pasadena Club when he was 7 years old. Howard provided 42 years of continued dedication to the Boys & Girls Club of Vista. He retired as Executive Director in 2002 and then served as Chairman of the Boys & Girls Club of Vista Foundation after retirement. Howard and Anne are survived by their three children Peter, the oldest, and twins Merrill and Sharon.
It’s amazing how many people tell me about the positive impact Howard and Anne meant on their lives and the good times they had under his leadership at the Club. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent in Howard and Anne’s honor to the Boys & Girls Club of Vista Foundation, 410 W. California Ave., Vista, CA 92083. The family will be unveiling a water fountain at the Club in their honor when we are all able to celebrate together in person.
