By Charles Huerth, Program Director of Augusta Boys and Girls Club

In 2000, a unique club for teens, which is now the Augusta Boys and Girls Club (ABGC), was established in downtown Augusta to offer a free afterschool hangout for young people. It was called The Edge and existed as part of then-Gov. Angus King’s effort to create communities for children.

Recognized at once by the United Way of Kennebec Valley (UWKV) as a “forward-looking treasure” for the City of Augusta, the UWKV has fostered the club’s growth into an integral part of the youth community, now located at the Buker Community Center.

The UWKV and the City of Augusta have offered resources, connections and technical supports during challenging times. Today, the ABGC is a healthier, more sustainable club serving nearly 250 individuals each year and working closely with the Augusta School Department.

The most recent change at the club is participation in the Child and Adult Food Care Program, making it possible to serve snacks and hot, healthy dinners to members each day. This year, two major contributors, along with community members, helped to build a kitchen area at the club where family-style meals could be prepared as part of a learning curriculum. Healthy meals have rapidly become essential to the ongoing development of our cornerstone projects:

• Alternatives to Suspension keeps young people from dropping out of school by supporting homework assignments and school re-engagement during school suspensions.
• Diversion to Assets works with youth who have made poor choices on their way to becoming adults. It allows them to discover their positive strengths and stay out of the Juvenile Justice System.
• The overall ABGC After School Program offers physical activities such as martial arts, as well as opportunities in the arts, such as the Photo Club.

For more information about the ABGC, visit facebook.com/augustateencenter.

The Augusta Boys and Girls Club is a longtime United Way partner program.