90th Donation Applicant: Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest

The Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest (BGCMW) provides youth development, education, social, athletic, and recreation programs to at-risk children and teens. The intent of these programs is to enhance the development of children, and to prepare young adults to be responsible and productive members of the community.

We were joined by Erin Harper, Director of Resource Development, and Lauren Costedio, Resource Development Associate, to discuss the increasing demand for quality youth services and how BGCMW is filling that need. “We are currently serving 3,500 students in the Framingham, Marlborough, and Hudson communities,” explained Erin. “While similar programs are present in all the clubs, we do find a slight focal shift in each. Framingham’s technology and art programs are well attended. Marlborough is known for its athletics programs and is the home of our youth basketball program. Hudson has a very strong teen-leadership program.”

“We are hoping to expand our summer camp scholarship program, but we also have to account for some construction work at our Marlborough facility. Work needs to be done on the building’s façade and we are hoping to create a more inviting playground,” described Lauren Costedio. The Marlborough clubhouse is currently occupying 169 Pleasant Street, a building built in 1924. Though centrally located, the building is in need of upgrades. “BGCMW sees over 700 kids pass through its doors each day. This is a tall task in itself, but then there are the occupancy and space issues,” noted Scott Barry, Long Cadillac Executive Manager. “They are working hard to stay accessible to the communities and children that need them the most. A safe environment, a sense of belonging, these are things we need to provide for our kids.”

To learn more ways to get involved and support the BGCMW, please use the contact information and links below.

Contact: Erin Harper erin.harper@bgcmetrowest.org 508-485-4912 ext. 112 www.bgcmetrowest.org