A Study of the Return on Investing in our Youth: The Boys & Girls Clubs of Los Angeles County

Today, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Los Angeles County Alliance, released the finding of a new study on the economic impact of the Boys & Girls Clubs within Los Angeles County.  I have long been a big supporter of the Clubs and know the importance of their work.  Recently, the clubs have placed even a greater emphasis on work to keep their members in school with the goal of high school graduation and beyond.  This new study is by Jamshid Damooei, PhD, a professor of economics and Chair of the Department of Economics, Finance and Accounting at California Lutheran University.  The report quantifies the value of five major areas including high school graduation rates, reduction in teenage motherhood, juvenile crime prevention and the value of economic output, jobs and tax revenue.  It even looks at the effect on parent’s ability to work and further their education.  All 27 Clubs participated in the study.  “For every $1 invested, the Boys & Girls Clubs within Los Angeles County generate $16.42 of positive economic impacts for the community.  This tremendous rate of return is a testament to the vital role the Clubs play in shaping the lives and futures of Club members and their families.”  www.BeGreatLA.org/2010Impact.asp