(Quad Cities, IA) - When Al Pena announced that his beloved boxing club was being forced to move, it seemed like the Club was being dealt a knock-out punch.
For almost 50 years, the Davenport Boxing Club has been in the same downtown Davenport location. But in April this year the building where they rent space was sold leaving them looking for a new centrally located space for their youth boxing program.
While they have since found a home at the former Lincoln School in Davenport, their operating costs have skyrocketed. When the Jaycees of the Quad Cities heard about their predicament, they stepped in to support the Club with a $1,200 donation to help defray costs.
The Jaycees of the Quad Cities have an 80 year history of supporting youth in the Quad Cities - closely aligned with the Davenport Boxing Club's mission to build self-esteem and confidence in today's youth, inspiring them to develop positive attributes of character as responsible young adults.
The Boxing Club has a long-standing relationship with youth in the community but also with the Jaycees of the Quad Cities (formerly known as Davenport Jaycees). In the 1980's the Jaycees hosted two National Silver Glove Level tournaments in 1983 and 1984 which served as the chapter's primary fundraising vehicle.
Because of this relationship, the Jaycees of the Quad Cities and the Jaycee Foundation teamed up to double the donation to assist Coach Pena and his team.
"This donation not only allows us to keep the gym open and running but also helps funds for trips and equipment. Traveling, the kids see new places and gain a better understanding of different levels of competition as well as different environment surroundings," said Coach Pat Pena.
Pena's Boxing Club was founded by Coach Pat Pena's father Alvino who was an active member of the Jaycees. He was awarded the Walter Busey Award for Community Service in the 1980s by the Davenport Junior Chamber for his work so the partnership today was an extension of previous relationships and members.
Community donations like this are made possible because of the year-round efforts of the Jaycees. Individuals and groups interested in volunteering with Jaycees of the Quad Cities should contact info@jayceesqc.org or call (563) 484-0041.
About Jaycees of the Quad Cities: Jaycees aim to build personal and professional relationships by working together on projects to strengthen and grow the Quad-Cities community. The Quad Cities chapter is one of the oldest chapters in the state of Iowa and has grown to include young professionals from both sides of the Mississippi River. They pride themselves on blending social opportunities with service - like planning the annual Bridal Expo and the Brew Ha Ha that raise funds for charitable initiatives.
About the Davenport Jaycees Foundation: The Davenport Jaycees Foundation is an affiliated group that consists of past Presidents and leaders who continue to have a vested interest in the success of our organization. This group mentors and endows our chapter. The Davenport Jaycees Foundation provides additional financial resources to large chapter projects, and is responsible for owning and maintaining the hall. The Davenport Jaycees Foundation meetings are on the first Wednesday of each month.
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