In the Amie L. Mathy Center for Recreation and Education, Viterbo University and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse join hand-in-hand as partners to promote the physical, recreational, and educational development of students of all ages.

This combined facility offers the Boys & Girls Clubs much-needed space to serve youth of the south side of La Crosse. Likewise, Viterbo benefits from added space which alleviated serious overcrowding in its former Student Activities Center which was built when enrollment was half of what it is today. This unique Boys & Girls Club/Viterbo University joint project is one of the first of its kind in the nation to combine assets and strengths of both organizations for the betterment of youth and the surrounding neighborhood. The power to become one will create many opportunities not otherwise possible.

The university had experienced a 300% increase in participation in intramural and recreational activities from 2001 to 2004. Enrollment has more than doubled and students are asking for more opportunities beyond varsity sports and in space not configured for today’s needs. CPR classes, wellness programs, expanded fitness opportunities, strength conditioning, and more intramurals are improvements that are possible in the new shared facility.

The ability to expand summer youth camps for area youth is also important. Last year, Viterbo served more than 725 youth over the summer. More is possible and mentoring opportunities are abundant.

Meanwhile, the Boys' & Girls Clubs need to be much more active and present on La Crosse’s south side. Current facilities at Hamilton Elementary and Lincoln Middle School have restricted space available and expansion is not possible.

There are still many children who are in need of the activities and programs offered by the Boys & Girls Clubs that are not currently being served. This center addresses the need for a positive and productive place for youth on the south side to be exposed to living and learning experiences.