Forty Kids Head to D.C. on Unforgettable Trip

JULY 18, 2019 – WAUSAU, WI – Forty kids are going on the adventure of a lifetime through the Boys & Girls Club of the Wausau Area thanks to Herb Kohl Philanthropies. The children, along with eight chaperones, will depart on a charter bus on July 22 at 2:30 a.m. to see historic monuments and museums in our Nation’s Capital.

The Club Members, along with students from the Wausau School District’s Enrich Excel Achieve Learning Academy, were chosen for the opportunity based on participation, attitude and leadership. For many of them, this is the first time they are traveling out of the state and away from home.

They will join over 650 other Club kids from across Wisconsin taking these summer field trips to learn about American government and history, visit institutions of higher education and develop important life-skills.  

Club Members on the 2018 Washington D.C. trip

The local Club customized their own personal field trip, and will be visiting White House, Library of Congress, Smithsonian, Holocaust Museum, Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, and more.

Funded by Herb Kohl Philanthropies, this educational field trip, which covers all meals, lodging, exhibits and travel expenses, requires youth to visit at least one college or university. These Learning Journeys emphasize leadership development, and expand upon the positive youth engagement that Boys & Girls Clubs provide each day.

"We want young people to see history come alive, expand their horizons and imagine themselves as our future leaders, and most of all, be ready to take their place as responsible, productive citizens of this great nation,” said Herb Kohl.  “Whether it's the trip of a lifetime or a life-changing trip, we encourage and support Boys & Girls Club kids in their Learning Journey.” 

Club Members in front of the Capitol on the 2018 Washington D.C. trip

“We see this fantastic educational opportunity as a launching pad into these children’s futures,” said Boys & Girls Club of the Wausau Area CEO Matt Jameson. “Perhaps this trip opens their eyes to the potential for expanded educational opportunities or study abroad in the future. Perhaps it allows them to meet people they would never otherwise have the opportunity to meet. The possibilities are endless and we look forward to having them come back and share their experiences. We also want to thank Herb Kohl Philanthropies for making this a reality as well as the individuals, business and organizations that invest their financial resources with the Boys & Girls Club of the Wausau Area throughout the year.” 

A parent of one of the children traveling said they are so thankful their daughter has this opportunity. Not only does she get to travel to DC, but they say this trip will help her grow, build her confidence and make new friends.

Club Members on the 2018 Washington D.C. trip in front of the Washington Monument

One of the Club Members said they never thought something like this would be possible and they can’t wait. And another traveler, who has never been outside of Wisconsin said they are nervous about the trip but also can’t believe they were chosen to go.

The students will make their way back to the Wausau area on Friday, July 26 around lunchtime. The Boys & Girls Club of the Wausau Area would like to invite members of the media to the Caroline S. Mark Center on 2nd Street for the homecoming. More information on exact arrival time is expected on Friday morning.

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About Herb Kohl Philanthropies

Herb Kohl Philanthropies focuses its work on three key areas that are important to our community, region and state's well-being: Education, Economic Opportunity, and Quality of Life.  Herb Kohl Philanthropies prioritizes K-12 classroom support and youth development.  It also recognizes Wisconsin’s teachers, principals and their schools along with high school students through the Herb Kohl Educational Foundation Scholarship and Fellowship award program and sponsors the state’s Teacher of the Year program.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of the Wausau Area

Boys & Girls Club of the Wausau Area is dedicated to ensuring all kids, especially those who need us most, have access to quality programs and services that will enhance their daily lives and shape positive futures. Founded in 1995, the Club serves more than 1,950 registered members at three locations within the Wausau area and an additional 5,100 children supported through various outreach initiatives. For more information, visit www.bgclub.com or call 715-845-2582.