22 Jun The Bulldog Zone Receives Champion of Change Award from the NYS School Boards Association
MEDIA RELEASE: June 22, 2022
The New York State School Boards Association was awarded the South Glens Falls Bulldog Zone after-school teen program the “Champion of Change” award at this week’s South Glens Falls Central School District Board of Education meeting. The award is given to individuals and organizations that, among other criteria, …are “a champion for children who foster(s) creative change that enriches educational opportunities and/or improves academic results.”
The Bulldog Zone is an after-school program, 2-7pm on Tuesdays (summer hours 1-5pm), at the Moreau Community Center in South Glens Falls that provides a safe place for teens to participate in activities including arts and crafts, games, educational opportunities, and a comfortable place to hang out with friends. Snacks and food are provided, often prepared by teen helpers in the Center’s newly renovated kitchen. Founded by three South High Seniors who had a vision in Fall 2021, the program has grown organically resulting in about 90 teens enjoying the weekly program. A collaboration with the Moreau Community Center, the Community Coalition for Family Wellness, and the South Glens Falls Community & Schools Partnership helped with funding to launch and maintain the program in October of 2021.
“Tuesday is my favorite day of my week,” says Moreau Community Center Executive Director Donna Nichols who runs the weekly program. “We are filling a need, and I so enjoy the time that the teens come to the Center. We are making a difference.” Raymond Ruby, former Oliver Winch Middle School Principal, and school district liaison says “What we are doing here is important. Teens have a safe place to be themselves, and yes, learn a thing or two.” Long time volunteer, now Director of Marketing Cheryl Lawyer shares “ This is a safe place for kids to come that was not previously available in the community. I love sharing my therapy dogs who the kids love!”
The Moreau Community Center was found in 1977 as a nonprofit, serving the needs of families and individuals in the northern Saratoga County and southern Warren and Washington counties of New York. Services include: food pantry, thrift store, client referral services, preschool, backpack program, teen program, holiday giving, Skills4Life life and career services, free computer access services. For more information about the Bulldog Zone and the Moreau Community Center, contact Cheryl Lawyer, (518)792-6007 x16, cheryl@moreaucommunitycenter.org.