Hertrich Family of Dealerships donates $10,000 to Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware

For children in western Sussex County, a place known as the Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware serves as a lifeline. Inside the unassuming one-story building on Virginia Avenue, club staff help with preparations for final exams, build self-esteem and provide nutritious meals for over 200 children daily.

“The Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware provides a safe haven for the children in our community, teaching social resiliency, critical thinking and practical life skills,” says George Krupanski, president and CEO.

Because of the club’s proven success, the Hertrich Family of Dealerships continues to support its work in the community. “The Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware does great things for the children in our community, and we are honored to support their efforts,” said Frederick W. Hertrich III, president of the Hertrich Family of Dealerships.

From modest beginnings in 1903, Hertrich's has grown into one of the top 100 dealer groups in the United States, according to Ward's Automotive. Today, it consists of 17 dealerships in four states, with 18 brands and more than 900 employees. Third- and fourth-generation family members are actively leading the company.

Few if any social services were available for the youth in western Sussex 20 years ago. In 1995, visionary leaders in the community opened their hearts and the club opened its doors. It has grown to become the leading youth development organization for more than 2,000 youth in western Sussex. Over the last year, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware has:

• Developed a culturally sensitive approach to services that honors the values and beliefs of the community
• Expanded its teen programs to help with building self-esteem, encouraging higher education, and developing leadership skills
• Strengthened educational programs focusing on academic enrichment, dropout prevention, and intensive intervention and case management.

“We are grateful that the Hertrich Family of Dealerships recognizes the important work of our clubs,” said Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware Capital Campaign Chair Martha Carper. “Fred and his company continue to work with us to fill the service gaps for our community’s youth.”

For more information on collaborative opportunities at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware, contact Zaida Guajardo, 302-422-4453 or ZGuajardo@bgclubs.org.