Elevating Our Gardner Community Through the Boys and Girls Club

David Ginisi • August 7, 2023

In the heart of Gardner, Massachusetts, you’ll find a hustling hub of youth activity. The Boys and Girls Club of Gardner is a local treasure that serves as a gathering place for our community’s youth, offering a safe space for enrichment, education, and connecting with friends. The Gardner Clubhouse is positively impacting countless lives and providing essential support to your community. 



Why Join the Boys and Girls Club’s Gardner Clubhouse?


At just $30/month, membership to the Boys & Girls Club offers an unmatched value, with financial assistance for qualifying families. Becoming a member of the Boys and Girls Club presents an opportunity for personal growth and community involvement. Youth from ages 8 to 18 are offered a wide range of programming that nurtures their minds, bodies, and spirits. 


At the Gardner Clubhouse, learning doesn’t stop when the school bell rings. It’s where homework help and tutoring programs support academic achievement. Innovative STEAM programs spark curiosity, building foundations for a future career in a thriving field. 


Physical activity is also a key part of the Club’s mission. The club offers wellness programs that promote healthy lifestyles and teach the values of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.


The Gardner Clubhouse also offers programming for the creative minds. Through arts and music programs, young members can express themselves, gain confidence, and discover hidden talents. 


Perhaps most importantly, the Gardner Clubhouse provides a sense of belonging. All students can feel welcome and connect over similar interests, forming friendships that last a lifetime. 


“The Gardner Clubhouse offers a unique array of programming that will not only teach members valuable life skills, but also enhance their learning experiences,” said Brandon Hughey, Director of the Gardner Clubhouse. “Through our volunteers, we ensure our members will have access to the biggest hearts and brightest minds of Gardner. A membership at the Gardner Clubhouse is the first step towards a brighter future.”



The Importance of Community Support


The Gardner Clubhouse will need your support to continue making a difference for youth in our community. Support from volunteers, donors, and grant funding is what enables the club to be so affordable and effective. 


The Gardner Clubhouse offers a crucial service that many working parents in the community rely on. Your donations ensure that this invaluable programming remains available and affordable to all families in Gardner and surrounding communities. 


By investing your time in the Gardner Clubhouse, you are preparing current club members to be future entrepreneurs, community leaders, and mentors. Club members will rely on volunteers to teach them skills and values while also giving them confidence in themselves.



Our Role in Supporting the Club


The Boys and Girls Club’s Gardner Clubhouse needs us, the community members of Gardner. There are many ways to support the Club, whether it’s making a donation, volunteering your time, or becoming a mentor. Even spreading the word about the Club’s mission and impact can make a significant difference.


Our involvement helps ensure that the Gardner Clubhouse can continue its vital work, providing the children of Gardner and surrounding communities with opportunities, resources, and a supportive community. 


"As a committed member of the advisory board of the Boys & Girls Club of Gardner, I implore each of you in our beloved community to stand with us in support of the Gardner Clubhouse,” said Theresa Thompson of Heywood Healthcare. “Our children are not just the future of Gardner, they are its very heartbeat, they are its present. When we invest in them, we are investing in the growth, vibrancy, and resilience of our city. Remember, it takes a village to raise a child, and today, more than ever, our Clubhouse needs your support to continue being that village. I’m excited to see our community come together to support this great organization at the annual gala on Thursday, November 2nd.”


In the end, the Boys and Girls Club of Gardner Clubhouse isn't just a building - it's a lifeline, an opportunity, a beacon of hope, and a testament to the power of community. It's proof that when we invest in our children, we invest in the future - a brighter future for Gardner, Massachusetts.


Join us in this mission, support the Boys and Girls Club of Gardner, and help us continue this cycle of positivity in our beloved community. Together, we can make a difference that will resonate for generations to come.


The Gardner Clubhouse’s After School Program begins Tuesday, September 5th. For more information or to register your child, please visit www.bgcfl.org.

Boys & Girls Club of Fitchburg, Leominster, & Gardner Welcomes Natalia Oliver as New Director of Development

October 28, 2024
Leominster, MA - October 28, 2024 — The Boys & Girls Club of Fitchburg, Leominster, & Gardner is thrilled to announce the appointment of Natalia Oliver as the new Director of Development. Natalia, an immigrant from Uruguay, brings an extraordinary blend of leadership experience, public service, and event management expertise to the role, where she will focus on advancing the organization’s development efforts. Natalia’s journey from her early days as an Uruguayan immigrant to becoming a key player in Fitchburg’s civic leadership highlights her commitment to community-building and advocacy for inclusive spaces. Most notably, she served as Chief of Staff for former Fitchburg Mayor Stephen L. DiNatale, where she was instrumental in managing the city’s strategic initiatives, public relations, and community outreach efforts. Natalia’s deep-rooted understanding of collaboration and fundraising in the public sector will be invaluable in her new role at the Boys & Girls Club. “We are ecstatic to have Natalia join us as Director of Development,” said Elizabeth Coveney, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Fitchburg, Leominster, & Gardner. “Her background in public service and event management, along with her ability to connect with diverse stakeholders, will be pivotal in helping us strengthen our relationships with donors and increase our impact across the communities we serve.” As Chief of Staff to Mayor DiNatale, Natalia played a key role in securing resources for major city projects, spearheading fundraising campaigns, and representing the Mayor’s office at community events and city councils. She brings with her a rich history of cultivating partnerships and managing complex projects. “I am honored to take on the role of Director of Development for the Boys & Girls Club of Fitchburg, Leominster, & Gardner,” said Natalia Oliver. “As an immigrant, I know the importance of having supportive, empowering spaces like the Boys & Girls Club. I am excited to engage with our donors and community partners to ensure that we can continue providing exceptional programs and opportunities for the youth in our area.”  In her new role, Natalia will oversee all aspects of fundraising and donor relations, helping to secure the resources needed to advance the Boys & Girls Club’s mission of empowering youth through education, leadership development, and community engagement.

Boys & Girls Club of Fitchburg, Leominster and Gardner Appoints Anthony Wilson New Director of Operations

By David Ginisi • August 29, 2024
LEOMINSTER, MA — The Boys & Girls Club of Fitchburg, Leominster, & Gardner is pleased to announce the appointment of Anthony L. Wilson as its new Director of Operations. Anthony brings a wealth of experience in youth development and community engagement, having served in various impactful roles across North Central Massachusetts. Anthony Wilson has dedicated his career to empowering young people through education, mentorship, and community partnerships. His extensive background includes significant contributions to organizations such as Fitchburg Public Schools, MassHire, and UMass Medical School, where he played pivotal roles in program development and implementation. "We are thrilled to welcome Anthony Wilson to our team as the Director of Operations," said Elizabeth Coveney, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Fitchburg, Leominster, & Gardner. "His proven leadership in youth development and his commitment to fostering a supportive environment for our members align perfectly with our mission. Anthony's expertise will undoubtedly enhance our ability to provide impactful programs that empower local youth." In his new role, Anthony will oversee day-to-day operations, program development, and community relations at the Club, continuing to build on its legacy of supporting youth through educational, recreational, and character-building activities. "Stepping into the role of Director of Operations at the Boys & Girls Club is a true honor,” said Anthony Wilson. “I'm excited to join a great organization dedicated to engaging, equipping, and empowering the youth of North Central Massachusetts, helping them unlock their full potential and build a brighter future for our community.” For more information, please contact Elizabeth Coveney at ECoveney@bgcfl.org.

Empowering Youth Through Teen Takeovers

By David Ginisi • April 25, 2024
In the heart of Fitchburg and Leominster, a remarkable movement is unfolding, one that is igniting the passion and potential of teenagers in the community. At the Boys & Girls Club, a transformative initiative known as Teen Takeovers is emerging as a beacon of opportunity, providing underserved children with a platform to explore, engage, and grow. Teen Takeovers, a concept that grants free access to the Boys & Girls Club facilities exclusively for teenagers, is not just another extracurricular activity. It is a lifeline for youth seeking connection, purpose, and belonging in a world often fraught with challenges and distractions. Within the safe and supportive environment of the club, teens are empowered to discover their interests, hone their skills, and forge meaningful connections with peers and mentors alike. One of the most compelling aspects of Teen Takeovers is its inclusivity. Regardless of background, socioeconomic status, or personal circumstances, every teenager is welcomed with open arms. This inclusivity not only fosters a sense of community but also ensures that no young person is left behind. In a society where divisions often overshadow unity, programs like Teen Takeovers serve as a powerful reminder of the strength found in diversity and collaboration. Furthermore, Teen Takeovers play a crucial role in addressing the multifaceted needs of today's youth. Beyond providing recreational activities, the program offers a diverse array of offerings, ranging from academic support and career exploration to leadership development and civic engagement. By nurturing holistic development, Teen Takeovers equip teenagers with the tools and resources they need to navigate the complexities of adolescence and emerge as confident, capable, and compassionate individuals. Moreover, the significance of providing such opportunities cannot be overstated, especially in communities where access to resources may be limited. For many teenagers, the Boys & Girls Club serves as a sanctuary—a place where they can escape the pressures of daily life and discover their potential. By investing in programs like Teen Takeovers, we invest in the future of our community, empowering the next generation to thrive and succeed. "Ready to take charge and make a difference? Join us for Teen Takeover!" said Yesi Rodriguez-Villafane. "It's your time to shine, to lead, and to create unforgettable memories. Let's transform our community together! I can't wait to meet you!" Teen Takeovers serve as a testament to the power of partnership and collaboration. By bringing together local organizations, businesses, and volunteers, the Boys & Girls Club leverages collective expertise and resources to maximize impact. This collaborative spirit not only enriches the program but also strengthens the bonds within the community, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and belonging. In essence, Teen Takeovers at the Boys & Girls Club of Fitchburg and Leominster represent more than just a weekly event—they embody a commitment to youth empowerment, community building, and social change. As we witness the transformative impact of this initiative, let us reaffirm our dedication to nurturing the potential of every teenager, ensuring that they have the support and opportunities they need to thrive. Together, we can create a future where every young person has the chance to shine bright and make a positive difference in the world.
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