Georgetown Ex-Coach Saves D. C. Boys & Girls Club

Former Georgetown basketball coach John Thompson stepped in to save a D.C. Boys & Girls Club scheduled to close Friday.

The Bill Butler-Julius Wyatt Clubhouse, which opened in 1972, has a $250,000 deficit and needed $42,500 this week to stay open for another three months, said Paul Alagero, the Boys & Girls Club’s local chief development officer.

Thompson’s grandson saw News4′s report Wednesday night and the legendary coach put up the money to keep the clubhouse open for the next three months.

“I have a foundation that I put together for that purpose,” Thompson said. “Most of the time we try to remain anonymous in the things that we try to get done, but I think it’s significant with this to try to get other people to try to help.”

Real estate developer and Boys & Girls Club board member Eddie Kaplan heard about Thompson’s donation and will match it, the Boys & Girls Club said.

“I think it’s important that the club stays open," says Thompson. 

Thompson's son John Thompson III is the current Georgetown coach.

I'm proud of my family's contributions to the Boys & Girls Clubs. There may be something that you can do to make a contribution to children in need. Consider volunteering and see what you can do to help. You'll find a great reward in making a positive contribution. Be a part of the solution!