About Us
About Us
Our Mission:
To inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens.
In 1969, we originally opened our doors and began serving youth in a converted 1,295 square foot pool parlor in the middle of downtown. Today, we've expanded our reach to serve some 1,300 youth. Our current operating hours are Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM.
The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield is governed by a board of directors, which is led by Board President, James J. Irwin. Day to day operations management is led by Chief Executive Officer, Bo Sullivan.
The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield provides:
- A safe place to learn and grow
- Ongoing relationships with caring, adult professionals
- Life-enhancing programs and character development experiences
- Hope and opportunity
Boys & Girls Clubs of America
The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield is part of a national network of affiliated Clubs. The national organization, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, began in 1860 with several women in Hartford, Conn. Believing that boys who roamed the streets should have a positive alternative, they organized the first Club. In 1906, several Boys Clubs decided to affiliate. The Federated Boys Clubs in Boston was formed with 53 member organizations - this marked the start of a nationwide Movement.
In 1931, the Boys Club Federation of America became Boys Clubs of America.
In 1956, Boys Clubs of America celebrated its 50th anniversary and received a U.S. Congressional Charter.
To recognize the fact that girls are a part of our cause, the national organization's name was changed to Boys & Girls Clubs of America in 1990. Accordingly, Congress amended and renewed our charter.
Why Boys & Girls Clubs are Special
Four key characteristics define the essence of a Boys & Girls Club. All are critical in exerting positive impact on the life of a child:
- Dedicated Youth Facility: The Boys & Girls Club is a place - an actual neighborhood-based building - designed solely for youth programs and activities.
- Open Daily: The Club is open every day, after school, when kids have free time and need positive, productive outlets.
- Professional Staff: Every Club has full and part-time, trained youth development professionals, providing positive role models and mentors. Volunteers provide key supplementary support.
- Available/Affordable to All Youth: Membership dues are affordable. Clubs reach out to kids who may lack access to other community programs.