Earlier this month, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater New Haven (BGCGNH) had the honor of welcoming Jim Clark, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of America, for an inspiring visit to our Clubhouses!

From the moment he stepped through our doors, the excitement was unmistakable. Members, staff, and community partners were eager to share how BGCGNH continues to carry forward a legacy of empowerment, mentorship, and opportunity for youth across the region.

Honoring 150+ Years of Impact

For more than 150 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater New Haven has opened doors to brighter futures for local youth. Founded in 1871, our New Haven Clubhouse is the oldest continuously operating Boys & Girls Club in the nation—a place that has never once closed its doors to young people in need of guidance, opportunity, and belonging.

That history is more than a milestone—it’s a promise. Through generations of change, one thing has remained constant: the Club’s commitment to creating a safe, supportive space where every child can learn, grow, and thrive.

A Celebration of Community and Diversity

During his visit, Jim Clark experienced the diversity and strength that make Greater New Haven so special. From the close-knit energy of our Ulbrich–Wallingford Clubhouse, where families and staff work hand-in-hand to foster a welcoming community, to the creativity and vibrancy of our New Haven Clubhouse, where youth are building confidence and celebrating achievements every day—each site reflects the unique spirit of the communities we serve.

BGCGNH is proud to serve children and teens from a wide range of backgrounds, connecting them through shared experiences and common goals. Jim’s visit was a powerful reminder of how the Boys & Girls Club’s mission adapts to meet the distinct needs of every neighborhood we call home.

Looking Toward the Future

The visit also served as a moment to reflect on where we’re headed. With renewed energy and vision, BGCGNH is strengthening its foundation and focusing on the future—expanding access to high-quality programs, deepening community partnerships, and reengaging local alumni.

“Our goal is simple,” said CEO Tameika G. Miller. “We’re building on our proud legacy to ensure that every child in Greater New Haven has access to the mentorship, learning, and support they need to reach their full potential.”

Discussions with Jim Clark highlighted several exciting priorities for BGCGNH’s continued growth—each designed to enhance our impact and expand opportunities for the youth we serve:

• Transforming our spring Youth of the Year event into a signature community celebration and fundraiser. This annual tradition is being reimagined to spotlight the stories and achievements of our members while rallying the Greater New Haven community around the power of youth voice and leadership. (Stay tuned for more!)
• Expanding access to BGCA national partnerships and resources, connecting our Clubs to the latest innovations in youth development, education, and workforce readiness. These collaborations will strengthen our ability to deliver high-quality, evidence-based programming that meets the evolving needs of local youth.
• Exploring opportunities to serve as a pilot site for new Boys & Girls Clubs of America initiatives—particularly in areas that support teen development, workforce readiness, mental health, and food security. As needs continue to grow, BGCGNH is positioning itself as a model for holistic, youth-centered programming.
• Empowering the Board and staff to drive sustainable growth and measurable community impact through leadership development, strategic planning, and a shared commitment to long-term success.

Each of these initiatives reflects BGCGNH’s belief that collaboration—between local leaders, national partners, and dedicated supporters—creates lasting change.

A Bright Path Ahead

Jim’s visit was a reminder that the Boys & Girls Club movement is as strong as ever—and that the future of BGCGNH is full of possibility. As we continue to grow, our focus remains clear: empowering youth through education, leadership, and belonging.

From local volunteers to national leaders, every person in this movement plays a role in shaping what comes next. And in Greater New Haven, that future is already taking shape—one young person, one partnership, and one great day at a time.

💙 Together, we’re not just preserving history—we’re writing the next chapter. If you’re ready to be part of our future, please consider donating to our Back-to-School campaign today.