Alternative summer programs step in as Boys & Girls Club of Decatur cancels summer program

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - The Boys & Girls Club of Decatur announced it will no longer offer summer programming.

In a letter sent to club parents and guardians, the board of directors said the decision is effective this Friday.

They said financial challenges led to the decision.

"We recognize that this news may create significant challenges for your family; please know that we are committed to supporting you through this transition and will provide families with a list of nearby youth-serving organizations offer summer camp programming," the club said in the letter.

Mrs. Kay's Learning center is one of the alternative options the BGCD suggested. Jessika Dampeer is the owner of Mrs. Kay's and she said she expects an influx of students, as the loss of the Club will create a void in childcare. "Prior to receiving the news that the Boys and Girls Club would be shutting their doors for the summer, there was already a severe deficit here in the Decatur area." she said. "Our doors are open, we're here to support wherever we can."

Parents are encouraged to reach out to the Boys & Girls Club of Decatur directly with questions at 217-422-9605.

The Boys & Girls Club of Decatur sent the following statement to WAND News:

"Boys & Girls Clubs of Decatur’s Board of Directors regretfully confirms that the organization will conclude its afterschool programming effective May 22, 2026. Despite diligent community fundraising efforts, persistent financial challenges have led to the difficult decision to not offer the 2026 Summer Camp Program. To ensure continued support for local youth immediately following the close of the school year, families were provided with a comprehensive list of alternative organizations offering summer camp programs in the Decatur and Macon County area. We are profoundly grateful for the privilege of serving the youth and families in our community and for the positive impact we have been able to make for more than 50 years."

Alternative summer programming is as follows, according to the Boys and Girls Club:

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