What started as a promise to grow youth services in Maricopa is now taking shape inside one of the city’s newest schools. 

The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Sun Corridor last week announced it will open a new club location at Alma Farrell Innovation Academy when the campus opens in the upcoming school year. It marks not only a major expansion of services for local students, but will also include middle school youth for the first time. 

The new site will shift operations from the organization’s branch at Saddleback Elementary School, and expand its footprint to better serve a wider age range. Its location at Santa Cruz Elementary School will continue to operate.

“We want to be a safe place for young people to go when they’re not in school,” Executive Director Matthew Lemberg told InMaricopa. “We try to help young people achieve academic success, good character and citizenship, healthy lifestyles and prepare them for work and career preparedness.” 

Lemberg said the expansion builds on years of growth since the organization first opened in Maricopa in 2020. Since then, their service only reached students in kindergarten through fifth grade.

“It’s just such a unique age and experience, so I think we are really excited to just be a resource for middle school students in Maricopa, to help them navigate a very tricky time of life. 

Maricopa Development Coordinator Patti Coutre, who also serves as president of Maricopa Unified School District, agreed. 

“I am incredibly excited about this next step for our community,” she said. “Opening at Alma Farrell Innovation Academy allows us to expand our impact and welcome middle school youth into a safe, supportive space after school.” 

Leaders said the transition will not impact before-school programming for elementary students, and all existing services will continue as the new site comes online. 

“We’re excited about the future,” Lemberg said. “Expansion and growth is always exciting.”