Dayton, Ohio, October 25, 2025
WNBA stars visited the Boys & Girls Club of Dayton, Ohio, to participate in a fundraiser aimed at supporting community programs. Their impactful talks focused on life skills and leadership, motivating the youth attendees while raising essential funds for educational and health initiatives. The event highlighted the importance of community involvement, inspiring future leaders among the children present.
Dayton, Ohio
The Boys & Girls Club of Dayton (BGCD) successfully raised over $400,500 during its fifth annual Spark Great Futures fundraiser held on October 23, 2025. The funds will support BGCD’s $18 million capital campaign for a new facility, aimed at enhancing the services provided to the local youth population.
This year’s event included a “Fireside Chat” featuring WNBA players Kelsey Mitchell and Sophie Cunningham, who inspired attendees with discussions on leadership and personal growth. Their contributions highlighted the organization’s commitment to motivating young participants through examples of hard work and determination.
The money raised will aid in the construction of a new 37,500-square-foot building on Dayton’s west side. Last week, BGCD demolished its existing 57-year-old facility to make way for the new center which will feature an array of amenities, including a full-sized gym, sensory room, art room, dance studio, teen center, esports arena, classrooms, administrative offices, and a workforce development area.
At the fundraiser, 18-year-old Ke’mya Lam was honored as the Youth of the Year by the Ohio Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs. Lam is a graduate of Stebbins High School and a current nursing student at Grand Canyon University, and she reflected on how her involvement with BGCD helped shape her aspirations.
BGCD has been a cornerstone of the Dayton community since 1930, providing essential after-school and summer programs that focus on academic success, health and well-being, character and leadership, and workforce readiness. The organization is dedicated to empowering young people to achieve their fullest potential.
Construction for the new facility is expected to begin within the next 12 months, with plans to double the number of youth and teens served upon completion. While the new center is being built, BGCD is offering programs from a temporary location at Wogaman Middle School, allowing them to continue fostering education, health, and community involvement among local children.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Spark Great Futures fundraiser?
The Spark Great Futures fundraiser is an annual event hosted by the Boys & Girls Club of Dayton to support its capital campaign for a new facility.
How much money was raised during the 2025 fundraiser?
Over $400,500 was raised during the fifth annual Spark Great Futures fundraiser on October 23, 2025.
Who are Kelsey Mitchell and Sophie Cunningham?
Kelsey Mitchell and Sophie Cunningham are WNBA players who participated in the “Fireside Chat” during the fundraiser, sharing insights on life and leadership.
What is the Youth of the Year award?
The Youth of the Year award recognizes outstanding young individuals who exemplify the values and mission of the Boys & Girls Club of Dayton.
When is the new facility expected to open?
Construction of the new facility is expected to begin within the next 12 months, with plans to double the number of youth and teens served upon its completion.
Where is the Boys & Girls Club of Dayton currently operating?
In the interim, BGCD is operating from a temporary location at Wogaman Middle School, continuing to offer programs that promote education, health, and community involvement among children.
Key Features of the New Facility
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | 37,500-square-foot facility |
| Location | West side of Dayton, Ohio |
| Amenities | Full-sized gym, sensory room, art room, dance studio, teen center, esports arena, classrooms, administrative offices, workforce development area |
| Construction Timeline | Expected to begin within the next 12 months |
| Capacity | Plans to double the number of youth and teens served upon completion |
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