MJWC Gives to Gym Buddy and Other Non-Profit Organizations

GIVING — MJWC President Laura Conway, left, and Director of Parks and Recreation David Perdios.

By Sheila Egan Varela
Milton Junior Woman’s Club
The Milton Junior Woman’s Club this year awarded $8,375 to 10 local organizations, including the town’s Gym Buddy Program. The program, run by the Park and Recreation Department for special needs children, takes place at the Glover School Wednesday evenings from October to March. It includes field trips, and activities and sports for the children, from elementary school students to high schoolers.
Director of Parks and Recreation Dave Perdios said the Gym Buddy Program, along with other special needs programs, used to get $12,000 a year from the town. He said the budget has been cut to zero and the program depends solely on private donations, like the one made by the MJWC.
“We’re always looking for donations,’’ he said.
The MJWC grants support non-profit groups that serve residents in many different ways, including providing free van transportation for elderly citizens and presenting a series of lectures on skillful parenting.
The grants are funded with the proceeds from the Milton Road Race, which is sponsored each year by the MJWC. This year’s road race is scheduled for Tuesday, June 13, at 6 p.m. and includes a 10K, a 5K and a Kids Fun Run, which begins at 5:30 p.m.
Road race applications can be picked up at Fitness Unlimited or Java Jo’s. For more information on the road race, call Patti Elliot, at 617-696-8141.
MJWC President Laura Conway said this year’s granting process was a rewarding experience.
“The MJWC continues to be impressed with the amazing community outreach provided by each of these organizations,” Ms. Conway said. “We are proud to join in their efforts to make Milton a wonderful place to live.”
Other recipients of the grants were Milton Young Musician’s Festival, Council on Aging, Blue Hills Trailside Museum, Milton Early Childhood Alliance, Friends of the Milton Public Library, Neponset River Watershed Association, Milton Community Food Pantry, Milton Animal League and Milton Outdoor Classrooms.
Residents interested in joining the MJWC should call membership Chair Christine Kelly, at 617-322-1179.