The Neigbhorhood Boys and Girls Club is celebrating its 80th anniversary. Credit: Courtesy of NBGC

For 80 years, the Neighborhood Boys and Girls Club, 2501 W. Irving Park Rd., has been “the place where everybody plays” (“everybody” including girls since 1991). From athletics to after-school tutoring, the club provides programming that supports a child’s physical, emotional, cultural and intellectual development.

Now NBGC is asking the community to return the favor.

Since admitting girls, membership has grown from 600 youngsters to 1,500. Responsibility for maintenance of the existing clubhouse, located at Revere Park, has increasingly shifted from the Park District to NBGC, which recently paid for a new roof and girls’ restroom. A capital campaign, launched to coincide with the club’s 80th anniversary, hopes to raise $750,000 for additional building renovations and program expansion.

There are a number of ways to donate, including filling out a pledge form, but why not have a little fun while doing something good? On Friday, March 2, at 9 p.m., Silvie’s Lounge, 1902 W. Irving Park Rd., will host a benefit concert, with all proceeds going to NGBC.

Street Goat will headline the event, which will also feature Ryan Hope of Lifeline. Performing rock with an infusion of blues and funk, Street Goat includes veterans of the Chicago music scene, with musicians from Fly Williams and Zoogenic.

To date, NBGC has received $200,000 in TIF dollars toward the campaign, as well as a $150,000 challenge donation. Funds will enable the club to refurbish its gym, update the computer lab, build a small addition for storage and expand the After School Kids Club to four elementary schools (currently the club partners with Coonley Elementary).

Tags: fundraisers, neighborhood boys and girls club, Revere Park, Sylvie's Lounge