SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — The Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Illinois are continuing to serve local children despite stalled grant funding nationwide.

Even though they are facing significant challenges with federal funding, BGCCIL announced that they will continue helping students during the 2025-26 school year at a number of grant-supported schools across District 186 in Springfield and District 117 in Jacksonville. These specific schools include:

• District 186: Owen Marsh Elementary School, Ball Charter School and Sandburg Elementary School
• District 117: North Jacksonville Elementary School and Murrayville Woodson Elementary School

Additionally, with help from community donors, BGCCIL will also continue programs in schools that are not covered by federal grants. These schools include:

• District 186: Matheny-Withrow Elementary School and Harvard Park Elementary
• District 117: Washington Elementary and South Elementary

BGCCIL’s Central Unit at 300 S 15th St. in Springfield will also stay open and fully operational.

“Our ability to maintain services at these five donor-supported sites is a direct result of the community’s belief in our mission,” said Tiffany Mathis Posey, BGCCIL Chief Executive Officer. “We remain dedicated to expanding these services further, should funding and partnership opportunities arise.”

On top of this, programs at all Club locations will be starting on Aug. 18. Families are able to register their kids at one of the following “Back to the Club” events:

• Futures Champions Sports Complex at 5 Kelly Drive in Jacksonville from Noon to 2 p.m. on Aug. 7
• GCCIL Central Unit at 300 S 15th St. in Springfield from Noon to 4 p.m. on Aug. 14

The organization is also urging community members to attend the Great Futures Gala on Oct. 16, which is the BGCCIL’s premier fundraising event. Both attendance and sponsorships directly fund Club programming.

“Our doors – and our hearts – remain open to the children and families of our community,” Posey said. “We are committed to building great futures – no matter the obstacles.”