Who We Are

OUR MISSION

To inspire and empower our youth to realize their full potential.

OUR VISION

Provide a world-class experience that assures success is within reach of every young person we serve.

Our Values

  • FUN

    Creating a positive and engaging environment, that enhances social interactions, makes learning enjoyable, and creates memorable experiences for children and teens.

  • INCLUSIVE

    Maintaining a supportive and welcoming space for all youth, regardless of their backgrounds, ensuring that everyone has access to the same programs, resources, and experiences.

  • RESPONSIVE

    Committed to the changing needs of the youth and families we serve. Committed to staying connected and adaptable.

  • SAFE

    Ensuring the emotional well-being of our youth, while also providing a secure and supportive space where they can learn, grow, and thrive in a secure environment.

  • TRUSTWORTHY

    Fostering and maintaining honesty, transparency, and accountability in our relationships and activities.

Our Story

Boys & Girls Club of Portage County is part of a national network of affiliated Clubs. The national organization, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, began in 1860 with several women in Hartford, Conn. Believing that boys who roamed the streets should have a positive alternative, they organized the first Club.


In 1906, several Boys Clubs decided to affiliate. The Federated Boys Clubs in Boston was formed with 53 member organizations – this marked the start of a nationwide Movement. In 1931, the Boys Club Federation of America became Boys Clubs of America. In 1956, Boys Clubs of America celebrated its 50th anniversary and received a U.S. Congressional Charter.


To recognize the fact that girls are a part of our cause, the national organization's name was changed to Boys & Girls Clubs of America in 1990. Accordingly, Congress amended and renewed our charter.


In 2002, we opened our Clubhouse doors in Junction City and downtown Stevens Point and began serving hundreds of youth almost immediately. 


Today, we've expanded our reach to serve nearly 2,000 youth at 8 Club locations throughout Portage County, including Stevens Point, Plover, Almond-Bancroft, Junction City, and Rosholt. Our hours and days of operation vary by site. During the school year, our doors are open after school. During the summer months, we operate during the day. We feel these are the days and times when parents and their children need the Boys & Girls Club the most.


Boys & Girls Club of Portage County is governed by a board of directors, which includes passion community leaders from many different professional sectors; including, education, health care, law enforcement, judicial, business, and more. Day-to-day operations are managed by CEO Danielle Belsky, who ensures that our system remain accessible to all of Portage County through: 

 

  1. A Dedicated Youth Facility: The Boys & Girls Club is a place – an actual neighborhood-based building – designed solely for youth programs and activities. 
  2. Daily Operating Hours: The Club is open every day, after school, when youth have free time and need positive, productive outlets. 
  3. Professional Staff: Every Club has full and part-time, trained youth development professionals, providing positive role models and mentors. Volunteers provide key supplementary support. 
  4. Affordable Dues: Membership dues are affordable. Clubs reach out to youth who may lack access to other community programs.