One group of citizens which includes several county leaders have an excellent idea: Start a Boys and Girls Club.

In our community, some boys and girls are left to find their own recreation and companionship while a parent or parents work. Sometimes when children are left to their own devices, they soon find trouble.

According to Clyde G. McGuire, Regional Service Director of Boys and Girls Club, the club could significantly help children by providing structured activities and tutoring during the time children most need it.

Statistics show that most communities that initiate a Boys and Girls Club often see a drop in the dropout rate, a cut in juvenile crime, and an increase in economic activity.

According to the Boys and Girls Club website (www.bgca.org), club programs and services promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging and influence all in a safe and run atmosphere.

Nobody should be against providing such positive aspects to the children of the community especially since the whole community will see the direct benefit.

Many have often asked, wondered or discussed the acquisition of new businesses to the community, which should give the Boys, and Girls club numerous supporters since by providing such a service to the youth we have a greater chance of acquiring new business or industry.

The very children the club helps may one day be the Captains of Industry and build the next great business here.

Supporting the Boys and Girls Club is something that we should put in our minds and on our calendar to attend the forum about the club on February 25 at 6 p.m. at the Louisville High School Auditorium.

Future generations will thank each of us that are involved in this worthwhile project.

Editor's note: Joseph McCain is the editor and publisher of the Winston County Journal and may be reached by calling 773-6241 or 803-5236 or emailing newsroom@winstoncounty journal.com.