The renovation was the result of a months-long community campaign that received support from generous community donors, the Cedar Lake Fraternal Order of Eagles, and Legacy Foundation. Renee Wolak from the Cedar Lake Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Terry Rebenack from the Cedar Lake Eagles, Kelly Anoe from Legacy Foundation, Diane Jostes of the Cedar Lake Chamber of Commerce, and Town Councilman Robert Carnahan were among those in attendance.
Speakers at the event included Ryan Smiley, president/CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana, Adam Decker, Cedar Lake Club Advisory Board Chairman, Phoebe Ruiz, Cedar Lake Club Youth of the Year, and Adam Clough, Cedar Lake Boys & Girls Club Director.
Speaking to a crowd of over 100 children, parents, and community members who filled out the newly installed bleachers, Smiley noted that the generosity of members within the community made the renovation possible. “Because of the caring spirit of the Cedar Lake Eagles and several individuals in Cedar Lake, we were able to give our Club members what they’ve been telling us they needed: a new gym and a new gym floor,” Smiley said.
The completed renovation consisted of freshly painted walls and a new scoreboard, as well as new backboards, rims and bleachers. The centerpiece, however, is a new hardwood floor, the significance of which should not be understated, Smiley said. “We all know that a Boys & Girls Club is more than just a gym. But we also know that a Club’s gymnasium is the heart of a Club.”
After the ceremony, members of the Cedar Lake Fire and Police departments squared off in a game of dodgeball.
For Club Director Adam Clough, being responsive to the requests of Club members is what made the night a success. “Seeing the community and Club come together and give Club members something they’ve been asking for will really give them a strong sense of belonging and let them know that we value their opinions. This is their Club.”
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana:
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Northwest Indiana has been opening doors to GREAT FUTURES for Porter and Lake County youth for over 60 years! Clubs are open after school and provide great places for youth in grades K-12 to meet friends and have fun while in a safe, supervised environment. Clubs are open during holidays and in the summer. Annual membership is only $35.00. For information on membership, volunteer opportunities, or to make a tax-deductible donation, please contact your local Club by calling (219) 464-7282 or visiting bgcgreaternwi.org. Great Futures Start HERE.