Grant to Teen Late Night helps keep programs open

Marshall and Firstenburg Centers — The Friday Teen Late Night programs at the Marshall and Firstenburg Community Centers got a boost from Umpqua Community Bank, which presented a $5,000 Community Giving grant to the Parks Foundation of Clark County at the Sept. 22 meeting of the Vancouver City Council. The money will help the popular, positive, late-night recreation programs stay open despite budget cuts. Lori Wick of Umpqua noted that the program draws teens from a huge area, Woodland to Portland, and has them get friendly with Vancouver police. “This program provides a valuable community service for teens and their families who are looking for a safe and fun place to spend their Friday nights,” said Julie Hannon, director of Vancouver Parks and Recreation. The Parks Foundation, a private nonprofit agency that funnels gifts and grants to local parks and recreation needs, is looking to secure another $10,000 that will keep Teen Late Night open for the rest of the school year. Learn more at www.parksfoundation.us or by calling 360-487-8370.