History & Mission

Our Mission

To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.

Our Story

The Boys & Girls Club of Kenosha has been a cornerstone of the Kenosha community since 1992, when a group of concerned citizens came together to provide a safe place for the city’s youth. What began as a small after-school program in a borrowed space has grown into one of southeastern Wisconsin’s most impactful youth-serving organizations, now serving over 12,875 young people.

As an affiliate of Boys & Girls Clubs of America, we deliver nationally recognized programs in academic success, healthy lifestyles, good character, and citizenship. Our facility at 1330 52nd Street serves as a daily home-away-from-home for hundreds of Kenosha youth and teens, providing programs, sports, meals, and mentoring during the critical out-of-school hours.

1992

Founded as the Boys Club of Kenosha, opening its doors with the main purpose of offering sports leagues and educational programs and activities for the youth of the Wilson Heights Neighborhood in Kenosha.

2000

BGCK and Lincoln Neighborhood Center merged, expanding programming to include organized youth sports leagues, becoming one of the largest and most affordable youth sports providers in the Kenosha area.

2010s

Expanded food programs through CACFP, now serving over 20,000 nutritious meals annually.

2020s

Grew scholarship programs with Carthage College and Herzing University partnerships. Expanded teen programming with FREE teen membership.

2021

BGCK took over Scamps Gymnastics, Wisconsin’s largest gymnastics facility

2022

Launched the Maytag Feel Good Fridge, combating food insecurity and providing fresh, healthy snacks and meals for BGCK members and families

2024

Established the Basic Needs Closet, providing youth with confidential, private access to essential personal care items and school supplies

Today

Serving 12,800+ youth with comprehensive programs in education, health, sports, and leadership. Supporting all schools in Kenosha, as well as transportation from 10 elementary schools. Annual membership just $20.

Our Values

Safety First

A zero-tolerance policy for abuse and a commitment to creating the safest possible environment for every young person. Background checks, SafeSport compliance, and Child Safety Hotline (866-607-SAFE).

Inclusivity

Welcoming all youth regardless of background, ability, or financial means. No child is ever turned away due to inability to pay. Financial assistance and reduced rates available.

Impact

Delivering nationally recognized BGCA programs that produce measurable outcomes — improved graduation rates, leadership skills, and healthy lifestyles.

Community

Building strong partnerships with families, schools, businesses, and local organizations to create a network of support for Kenosha’s youth.

Our Facility

Our main clubhouse at 1330 52nd Street in Kenosha features three after-school centers located within the walls:

Youth Center

Geared towards Youth 6-9

Tween Center

Focused on Youth 10-12

The Club

For Teens 13-18

We also have gymnasium facilities, a commercial kitchen, the Basic Needs Closet, and dedicated spaces for arts, STEM, and educational programming. We also operate with the SCAMPS Gymnastics facility at 5711 77th Street — a 39,000 sq ft facility that is the largest gymnastics training center in Wisconsin, as well as CYC Park at 6201 67th St — that features 5 different baseball diamonds.

“The Club changed my life. It gave me a safe place to go after school, mentors who believed in me, and the confidence to pursue my dreams.”

BGCK Alumni Member
Exterior of the Boys & Girls Club of Kenosha building

Quick Facts

For over 30 years, the Boys & Girls Club of Kenosha has been a safe haven where youth and teens can learn, grow, and thrive.

Founded

1992

Youth Served

12,875+

Annual Meals

20,000+

Youth Membership

$20/yr

SCAMPS Facility

39,000 sq. ft.

Transportation Provided for

9 schools

Get Involved

There are many ways to support the Club and help build great futures for Kenosha’s youth.