Boys & Girls Club looks into possible misuse of credit card
By Nancy Needham nancy@theacorn.com

A former president of the Boys & Girls Club of Conejo and Las Virgenes is being investigated over allegations of possible misuse of the nonprofit organization's credit card, according to a statement from Boys & Girls Club officials.

In October, Dianne McKay was named interim president of the organization following the resignation of June Aiello.

At the end of November, the Boys & Girls Club's board of governors met to accept the resignation of Aiello and to officially make McKay the organization's new president, said Jim Cathcart, a board member.

At that time, the executive committee discussed with the board the possible misuse of the organization's financial resources. The amount of money involved was not disclosed.

"Board members are also contributors. We, of course, wanted to take action to avoid a lingering cloud related to the organization itself--a noble, heart-friendly cause," Cathcart said.

The group has filed a claim with its insurance company. Calvin Johnston, founder and chairman of the board of governors, explained in a Dec. 22 news release that attorneys are looking into what other action, if any, should be taken. An investigation is reportedly underway.

"It's like airport security-after an incident they begin screening for everything. Now our antenna is up," Cathcart said.

He said he was especially glad that McKay has come forward to be the group's new president. Her involvement in the community includes local PTAs, school site councils and various advisory committees and commissions. She's received the Gold Award in 2005, Outstanding Citizen from the California Teachers Association and an Ed Masry Integrity in Community Service Award.

"Dianne McKay is a godsend. We are very fortunate to have someone as solid as her to step up," Cathcart said.

Aiello was executive director of the Los Angeles Boys & Girls Club before becoming the local group's president in August 2005.

Boys & Girls Clubs provide before- and after-school programs in homework assistance and leadership training, as well as programs in the arts, technology, sports, health and fitness.