Boys & Girls Club, Lake Forest, Gifted $100K Inclusion Grant

LAKE FOREST, CA —A donation from Joe Ziomek will see that the Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach will be buoyed in the ways of inclusion, diversity, equity and access for all, according to a recent press release.

Ziomek has invested $100,000 as a challenge gift for social impact, establishing the Ziomek I.D.E.A initiative. Ziomek is an alumna of the Laguna Beach Boys & Girls Club. Recently, he retired from a busy financial advisor role and had the time to contemplate how the Club’s programs and leadership shaped his life perspective, enhanced his self-esteem, and provided inspiration which led to his business success.

“I knew I wanted to leave a legacy in Laguna Beach. A community that has so much and has given so much to me.” Ziomek said. “I not only want to share with those that are less fortunate but inspire others to do the same. What better way to do that, than to give to the youth organization that had the biggest impact on my life and have them carry on my life’s work.”

His legacy investment is for the future of young people who face systemic obstacles beyond their control.

In alignment with Laguna Beach’s quest for unity and diversity, leaders like Joe Ziomek, have partnered with other local entities to support students in Laguna Beach and its surrounding lower-income communities.

“There are huge deficits in financial literacy among communities not only across the US but just here, in south Orange County. To have equity you must have a financial education. This education is not equally distributed nor accessible for many.” Ziomek said. “When I learned the Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach was expanding to serve the Saddleback Valley community, it was serendipitous."

That is when Ziomek developed the IDEA Initiative.

Funding will be provided to Saddleback Valley communities to serve children and families who are experiencing economic challenges, food insecurity, unstable housing, health disparities, education gaps, gang violence, discrimination, and racism.

Additionally, some funding will be directed to promote integration between Title 1 School students in other areas with Laguna Beach teens.

It is Ziomek’s hope that his gift will inspire others to invest in our future generations through the Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach whose programming helps to even the playing field for underserved youth.

To maximize the gift match, the Club is now challenged to raise $100,000 from local partners to this IDEA Initiative.

Although Ziomek feels grateful for the many luxuries and financial abundance in his life, he realizes that beautiful homes travel, and material objects, mean little in comparison to helping others—especially our future generations.

In partnership with the Club, he is dedicated to helping ensure safety, health, dignity, and equity for every child.

Together, the community can help break down barriers and inspire hope so all children may develop the resiliency required to be their best and thrive. All citizens positioned to help are invited to join in this effort.

The investment will be used to combat deficits in financial literacy as well as allow the Boys & Girls Club to aid families who struggle with food insecurities, unstable housing, health disparities, education gaps, gang violence, discrimination and racism.

To get involved please contact Chief Relationship Officer, Michelle Highberg at Michelleh@bgclaguna.org or via phone: (949) 715-7918.