Council OKs ARPA agreement with Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana for anti-violence programming

The New Iberia City Council voted to authorize a cooperative agreement with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana on Nov. 5 to implement American Rescue Plan Act-funded anti-violence programming in the city.

Ryan Wheeler, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana, told the council the organization has 54 years of history, nine sites across seven parishes and serves more than 1,000 local youth. Wheeler described the proposal as a three-pronged approach that would fund evidence-based curricula (including "Too Good for Drugs/Too Good for Violence"), strengthen ties with law enforcement, and support research and training on emotional resilience. The plan also includes transportation to and from club hours, teen outreach and a marketing campaign led by teens.

Wheeler presented demographic and impact data: the organization said 46% of member households are headed by single parents, 67% of households earn under $30,000, and the club serves youth ages 6 to 18. He said the club provides homework help, daily meals and mentoring; the organization cited external research that after-school programs reduce juvenile delinquency during the 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. period.

Council members asked no substantive questions during the motion. The resolution was moved, seconded and approved by electronic vote; the transcript records no roll-call tally during the meeting.

The agreement authorizes use of ARPA funding for program delivery and related supports; staff will return with contract documents and implementation details to the council.