Bellevue Boys & Girls Clubs Inc

Bellevue Boys & Girls Clubs Inc, though commonly referred to as Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing educational and recreational activities to youth in Bellevue, Washington. It is an affiliate of Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA), a national organization that serves over four million young people across the United States.

History

The Bellevue chapter was founded in 1952 on 100th Avenue in downtown Bellevue. Initially established as Bellevue Boys Club, it admitted girls as members in the 1970s, years before the national organization adopted the name change to reflect inclusivity of both genders in 1990[1][3]. Over the decades, the organization has expanded its services and facilities, marking significant milestones such as the opening of the first and only Teen Center in Bellevue in the early 1990s[1][3].

Partnerships and Expansion

In 2005, in partnership with the City of Bellevue, the Club opened the South Bellevue Community Center, providing critical human services to families in the area[1][3]. As part of the Be Great Bellevue Capital Campaign, further partnerships with the city led to the establishment of the Hidden Valley Fieldhouse in 2015 and a new Downtown Club in 2016[1]. More recently, the organization has grown to operate 18 sites across Bellevue, including the newly renovated Lake Hills Clubhouse in 2023[3].

Programs and Impact

The organization serves over 16,311 youth annually, aged 3 to 19, through a variety of programs including before and after-school activities, athletics, technology education, and summer programs[3]. These programs focus on academics, health, and leadership development to ensure that all Eastside children and teens have equal access to life-enhancing opportunities. The Clubs' formula for impact emphasizes high-yield activities, targeted programs, and regular attendance to achieve positive outcomes for young people[3].

Leadership and Operations

As of the latest available information, Tim Motts serves as President and CEO, overseeing operations that include a range of educational services and nonprofit initiatives[1]. The organization is committed to maintaining a safe and supportive environment for its members, emphasizing youth safety and well-being in all its activities[5].