A new look for Boys & Girls Club in Clovis. See what’s inside the rebuilt facility

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Supporters of the Boys & Girls Club of Clovis this week celebrated the reopening of its new facility after a major renovation that took about three months.

The facility at Gettysburg and Helm avenues has been upgraded with new windows, floors and bathrooms. In addition, the club features new appliances, including televisions and a refrigerator.

“It’s like a new club,” said Kim Carter, director of the facility.

“We are so grateful for the work that has been done,” she added.

“When our members come back, their jaws are going to drop. I hope the new space brings more kids to the club after their school day because they need us. We provide some amazing programs that change lives.”

Jessica Maxey, of Boys and Girls Clubs of Fresno County, said one of the special features of the Clovis club is a gym that includes a full-size basketball court and an outdoor playground.

At other area clubs, kids must go to nearby playgrounds.

In addition, the club features a brand new gaming system and lazy boy- type chairs with built-in speakers.

There is also a special room for 13- to 18-year olds, said Maxey, so that older kids can gather separately from their younger siblings. There, they can take part in clubs such as Keystone and Torch to develop leadership skills.

Officials said the club renovation was made possible by a donation from Janell Smittcamp-Boldt and Brent Smittcamp.

Fresno County Supervisor Nathan Magsig also credited the Odd Fellows Lodge in Clovis and the Clovis City Council.

He noted that the Odd Fellows initially provided space for the club next to their lodge.

The council, he said, “recognizes how important our kids are to the future.

“I’m humbled that we still have people who step forward and make projects like this a reality.”

Ken Quenzer, who has played a key role in the clubs in the Fresno area for decades, also attended the reopening, and credited his wife, Muriel for advocating for girls to become part of once were simply called boys clubs.

“’If you want my help, you can’t let girls stand outside,”’ said Quenzer, quoting his wife.

Quenzer also credited LDS church members for helping in the construction.