Mar Vista Gardens
The Jack & Cindy Jones Mar Vista Gardens Boys & Girls Club
Nestled in the heart of the Mar Vista Gardens Los Angeles Public Housing Apartments, this Club was founded thanks to the generosity of Jack and Cindy Jones in 2013 to service the community’s hard-working residents. The completely renovated 7,265 square foot building includes an exclusive teen space, art shop, technology and education center, full gym, tutoring rooms, and studio/sound booth. The Club is open to members between the ages of 6 and 18 years old where they can take advantage of programs and services, such as tutoring, homework assistance, develop social skills, sports, gain access to technology and other programs that promote healthy lifestyles and leadership skills.
This club is full to capacity with about 185 kids every day after school, during breaks, and all summer long. Since our opening, members of the community will tell you the culture of the Club has had a significant impact on the culture of the entire community.
Our Club offers a safe and supportive space for kids to come after school and during the summer. They will enjoy a state-of-the-art technology center, music studio and a Games Room that is always action-packed featuring an air hockey table, Dance Dance Revolution, foosball, ping pong and more! Additionally, we have a full-size gym and outdoor blacktop where members enjoy basketball, volleyball and other sports and activities. The Club also features an exclusive teen space for our young leaders to socialize and watch movies, complete homework, work on college applications, read, play games or just relax. We offer impactful programs ranging from homework help & tutoring to robust STEM courses, career exposure, nutrition, arts, leadership & community service, as well as a wide variety of athletics and dance. With supportive and trained Youth Development Professionals, we foster kids’ passions and help them connect those interests to meaningful higher education and career pathways.All members receive healthy snacks or meals daily and free transportation is provided from Stoner and Braddock Elementary and Venice High School.
Our ultimate goal is to create GREAT FUTURES.
Creative & Performing Arts
A diverse set of art programming to enhance youth’s artistic and creative expressions. MVG is the home of the Step Team, a performing arts program that focuses on cultivating healthy lifestyles, teamwork, sportsmanship and dedication. The Step Team has performed at multiple venues, including flying to Chicago to perform in BGCA’s conference.
Sports Leagues
MVG facilitates a robust outdoor athletics program that engages youth in sports leagues, fitness, health and wellness. Currently, MVG hosts organized leagues in the following sports: Soccer, Flag-Football, Basketball and Baseball/T-Ball. Youth are enrolled in a team and participate in practice to help them prepare for their weekly games!
Jr. Staff Program
Our Jr. Staff Program is a Work Readiness Initiative that provides a paid internship to members 14-18 years of age. This program focuses on topics such as effective communication, problem solving, interviewing, resume building and real-life work experience.
185
Club member
1800
people live in the Mar Vista Gardens Community
7265
square foot building
2013
year founded by Jack & Cindy Jones