By David Murchland - Marshfield Now! MARSHFIELD — The Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield celebrated a major step toward a permanent home Tuesday, Oct. 13, with a wall-breaking ceremony at its future facility at 503 E. Ives St. Supporters and Club members gathered inside the building to mark the beginning of its transformation into a space where young people can learn, build friendships and participate in after-school activities. The milestone follows a community fundraising effort that brought together more than 150 donors, community partners, families and supporters to raise over $8 million, according to the Club’s event announcement. “These walls will change, rooms will take shape, and before long, this building will be filled with youth and teens coming through the doors after school,” a speaker said during the ceremony. The Club currently operates at Lincoln Elementary School, with room for up to 100 children. The new facility is expected to serve up to 300 youth, expanding access to activities, homework help and a safe, supportive place after school. Club leaders said the project will help the organization reach more young people throughout Marshfield. “It really is a milestone towards our ultimate goal of serving all youth in Marshfield, ensuring that all youth in our community have access to safe, supportive spaces,” a Club leader said. For the children who will use the building, the project also means more room for favorite activities. Asked what he was most excited about, a Club member named Eli offered a simple answer: “The gym and the cafeteria.” The ceremony recognized the community effort behind the project, including people who donated, volunteered, attended events or helped share the Club’s vision. As building work moves forward, Club leaders said continued donations, volunteer support and people interested in working with youth will help support the organization’s next chapter. The permanent facility is intended to provide a place where Marshfield’s young people can grow, explore their interests and discover their potential for generations to come.