Over the last 18 months, many kids have been isolated due to COVID, spending more time playing video games than playing outside with friends. Now, after being closed as a result of the pandemic, The Boys & Girls Club of Greater San Diego – William J. Oakes Branch in Logan Heights reopened to its members on Aug. 30.

As part of its activities this month to celebrate that reopening, the Club administration joined donors, UnitedHealthcare and W2W Sport, to officially dedicate the brand new multi-use sports field, made possible by a $20,000 gift from UnitedHealthcare and built by W2W. Some lucky members had their first opportunity to try out the field in person with team defenders Elijah Martin, Josh Yaro and Grant Stoneman from the San Diego Loyal Soccer Team.

“The sports court will help kids develop a passion for sports and build healthy habits as children that will hopefully remain with them as adults,” said Michelle Malin, Senior Vice President Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego. “Making memories, playing on this field — that’s going to go a long way toward encouraging kids to enjoy our club’s offerings. We appreciate all UnitedHealthcare and W2W have done to make this a reality.”

The reopening is a milestone for the club. When the pandemic began, the club had to quickly adapt, and it did so by gearing up to help children and families impacted by the health crisis. More children and families needed social service support as well as a place where children could use computers for remote learning. These needs drove much of the Club’s effort to seek private support.

“The facility will provide a safe and modern space for boys and girls to be physically active,” adds Raul Herrera, UnitedHealthcare of California. “Investing in our communities, helping kids develop a love of sport and exercise, and supporting activities that help people live healthier lives is all part of UnitedHealthcare’s efforts to be a valued community partner.”