On February 7 and 8, Boys & Girls Clubs of Rochester members brought excitement, energy, and plenty of school spirit to two local Ross Dress for Less stores as part of the annual “Help Local Kids Succeed in School” fundraiser.
Visiting the Victor and Chili Avenue locations, Club members experienced firsthand what community partnership looks like in action — and they made sure every shopper felt the excitement the moment they walked through the doors.
The atmosphere was electric.
There was clapping. There was whooting. There was bell ringing. And most importantly, there were smiles everywhere.
Club members enthusiastically greeted customers, thanked shoppers for their support, and helped kick off a campaign that directly benefits youth programming at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Rochester. Store teams welcomed members warmly, creating a celebratory environment that reflected the shared commitment between Ross and the Club to support local young people.
For many members, the visit was more than just a fun outing — it was an opportunity to see how community support helps power the programs they experience every day.
Funds raised through the Help Local Kids Succeed in School fundraiser help ensure Club youth have access to academic support, enrichment programs, and safe spaces that allow them to learn, grow, and thrive throughout the year.
“This partnership shows our members that the community truly believes in them,” said Executive Director Dwayne Mahoney. “Seeing the excitement in the stores — the cheering, the encouragement, and the generosity from shoppers — reminds our kids that they are supported by people across Rochester.”
Ross Dress for Less has been a continued partner of Boys & Girls Clubs nationwide, and locally, their support helps strengthen programs that prepare youth for academic success and bright futures.
As shoppers donated at checkout, Club members witnessed something powerful: small acts of generosity coming together to create meaningful impact.
The Help Local Kids Succeed in School fundraiser will continue at participating Ross Dress for Less locations through March 1, giving the community additional time to support local youth and invest directly in Rochester’s next generation.
Together, these moments of generosity help ensure that every young person who walks through our doors has the opportunity to build a great future.
