The Boys & Girls Clubs of Providence is celebrating 150 years

of continuous operation serving youth – the oldest in the country!

Our incredible story began shortly after the US Civil War, when a number of individuals were drawn together by a mutual interest. On March 3, 1868, they met to establish the Union for Christian Work, the parent from whom, thirty-one years later, today’s Boys & Girls Clubs of Providence first breathed independent life. In the decades of the 1890’s, the program was identified as the “Boys Room” and in March 1899, the organization officially became the Providence Boys Club. It wasn’t until 1981 that it would be known as the Boys & Girls Clubs of Providence. Today, there are eight sites throughout Providence, including buildings in the Fox Point, South Side and Wanskuck neighborhoods, three location is Providence public housing sites and two schools.

While its name may have changed as the club evolved over the years, one thing has remained the same.

We are dedicated to our mission: To enable and inspire children and youth, especially those from diverse or difficult circumstances, to reach their full potential as productive, responsible, and healthy members of their community, the State of Rhode Island, and the Nation.

Today, more than 5,700 diverse youth between the ages of 6-18 per year serving more than 100,000 hot meals each year, and providing a safe and secure environment for help with homework, childcare, mentoring, athletic activities, and educational and career development opportunities.

Denim & Diamonds

150th Celebration Gala

BGCP Corporate Partners and Friends came together on November 29 to celebrate 150 years of continuous operation inspiring children and youth, especially those from diverse or difficult circumstances, to reach their full potential as productive, responsible, and healthy members of their community, the State of Rhode Island, and the Nation.

Testimonial

  • Helping young people find meaningful opportunities to gain skills, education and jobs is a vital component of building a thriving community. We are proud to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Providence who provide young people with the tools, resources and opportunities to build pathways to future careers and healthy financial lives.

    Bill Hatfield
    Bank of America RI Market President
  • We moved around a lot when I was growing up so we were never in one place for very long. The Club was the only constant in my life. The staff and my friends were my family. I will always be there to help kids today. They need us. It is even harder for them now than it was for us back then.

    Paul MacDonald
    age 80, BGCP volunteer
  • My two children love coming to the club every day and have enjoyed the many programs they’ve participated in. The counselors are caring, the kids are great, and the experiences are priceless. I love the fact that even though we work full time they still have endless opportunities to participate in club sports and fun activities right after school.

    Jen
    Mom of Parker age 9 and Sienna age 6
  • Our second grader has been doing after school clubs at the Boys & Girls Clubs since kindergarten – everything from swim to drama – and she loves it! We feel good about her spending time in such a nurturing atmosphere with caring and enthusiastic staff.

    Mandy
    Mom of Violet age 6

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550 WICKENDEN STREET | PROVIDENCE, RI 02903 | (401) 444-0750