We are excited to announce a new Teen Center set to open this spring at the Lewiston Armory. BGCSM recently signed a multi-year lease for the space with the City of Lewiston. This site will offer expanded teen programming for middle and high school students from both the Lewiston and Auburn communities. 

Since 1995, we have operated a Clubhouse in Auburn, serving approximately 95 Auburn/Lewiston youth, ages 6-18, each year. Transportation for Lewiston residents has been a barrier to regular attendance at the Auburn Clubhouse and the facility cannot accommodate the growing number of teens interested in joining the Club. "For over 25 years, Boys & Girls Club has served Lewiston youth and teens at our location in Auburn. We are excited to continue this tradition of service by establishing a Teen Center at the Lewiston Armory. Together with our Auburn location, these two sites will allow us to increase the number of youth and teens we serve each day," says Gary Violette, Club Director.

The Ideal Location

The Armory's location, next door to the middle school and on the bus route for the high school, is ideal for this initiative. Five rooms, over 1,600 square feet of program space, and use of the Armory gymnasium, will give ample room for diverse activities. "We are very excited to welcome Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine to the Lewiston Armory. Their goals and mission complement our vision for increased recreation access for the Lewiston community.” shares Nicole Welch, Recreation Director for the City of Lewiston.

What is a BGCSM Teen Center?

The new BGCSM Lewiston Teen Center will provide 75 young adults with programs to support their academic success, arts, health & wellness, and leadership skills. Substance abuse prevention strategies, nutrition, and college readiness programs will also be offered. BGCSM is raising capital to renovate the space and hopes to open the program this spring. Healthy meals will be provided to all members daily. The Teen Center will operate five days a week from 2:00 pm-7:00 pm following the school calendar.

"We are thrilled to be serving the youth of Lewiston in a more accessible way. Our work in this community and our partnerships with organizations like Tree Street Youth, New Beginnings, Lewiston Rec, Long Creek, and the Career Center will ensure that this Teen Center equips tomorrow’s leaders with the tools they need as they enter adulthood," says Brian Elowe.

Anyone interested in supporting this effort can donate to BGCSM today and help build great futures!