The Boys & Girls Club of Chicopee’s mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
For over 100 years, the Club has served youth of the greater Chicopee area who are ages six through 18. As the Club is located between two low-income housing projects in the Willimansett area of Chicopee, many of our members come from single parent, female head-of-household, and low-income homes. The Club provides a wide range of programs that focus on educational enhancements, character development, child development through sports, substance abuse prevention, gang prevention, literacy, career exploration and health related issues.
Boys & Girls Club programs and services promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging, and influence. In every community, boys and girls are left to find their own recreation and companionship in the streets. An increasing number of children are at home with no adult supervision. Young people need to know that someone cares about them. The Club is staffed by paid, trained youth development professionals.
Through a system of structured guidance, Club staff form strong bonds with young people and help them to make smart choices in life. For many Club members, the Club staff is the most influential positive adult role models in their lives.
Environment has placed the youth of this area at risk for a variety of societal issues, including substance abuse, gangs and gang related violence. Our primary goal is to provide a fun, positive alternative to those situations by providing:
- A safe place to learn and grow
- Ongoing relationships with caring, adult professionals
- Life-enhancing programs and character development experiences
- Hope and opportunity
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Educational Support
The Boys & Girls Club of Chicopee provides educational support designed to reinforce the knowledge and skills youth learn in school by integrating fun with homework assistance and tutoring. Educational assistance is provided at the main Club and the Teen Center.
Creative Arts Program
The Creative Arts Program is designed to introduce Club members to the exciting world of art. Art builds self-confidence, sparks creativity, and boosts academic achievement. Through Cultural Council and Sony Grants, the program has expanded to include Fine Arts and Digital Photography.
Athletics
Recognizing that children’s physical, mental and emotional development are enhanced by playing sports, the Boys & Girls Club of Chicopee offers a variety of athletics including basketball, volleyball, soccer, and tennis. In addition to skills, members are taught about positive sportsmanship. Sports are a great way to get kids involved with their community and with others their age. Playing sports can also help combat childhood obesity.
Great Futures Start Here
Boys & Girls Clubs believe every child has the potential to BE GREAT. In support of this strong conviction, Clubs strive to build caring, responsible citizens. The Boys & Girls Club family – a community of staff, volunteers, parents, youth and supporters – work together to create a positive place, full of hope and opportunity, for every child.
Visit the Club’s website for more information.