Talk to some teenagers in downtown Ogden and find out if they feel safe all of the time. Ask them if they know from whom they could buy drugs. Ask them if they know anyone in a gang. Their answers suggest that Ogden needs safe havens. Every school day from three to five o'clock in the afternoon, an average of 75 kids come together in what I consider a peaceful eye in the growing storm on the streets: The Boys & Girls Club of Weber County.

Since January, the Boys & Girls Club of America has been up and running at Central Middle School. We are located in the center of our great city, hence the name of the school, and a few blocks east of the historical part of 25th Street. In keeping with such a historic part of town we are working hard to make a little history of our own. At the Boys & Girls Club, both students and staff are writing meaningful chapters in their personal histories.

Before I started working here, I knew very little about the Boys & Girls Club. However, I noticed advertisements referring to it as the positive place for kids. I now believe that this is not just a slogan. It is a fact. Everything that goes on at our club can be traced back to our mission: “To inspire and enable all young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.”

Boys & Girls Clubs are governed by four core beliefs. The club should provide: a safe place to learn and grow, ongoing relationships with caring adult professionals, life-enhancing programs, and character development experiences.

Our students are offered six different clubs where they may learn anything from fitness and recreation standards, to appreciation for the environment. These include Explorer, Leadership, Crafts, Ultimate Sports, Chess, and Smart Girls clubs. There is something here for every child.

Currently, only the students at Central are enjoying these learning experiences and activities. However, our Summer program hopes to include kids from all over Ogden. Incoming sixth graders and outgoing eighth graders from Ogden elementary and middle schools are encouraged to sign up for this summer’s program. We would also like to extend an invitation to the adults in our community. Any volunteers would be greatly appreciated as we are expecting a lot of students to enroll. There will be many rewarding opportunities for volunteers to play, supervise, and teach.

A good summer is a busy summer. The Boys & Girls Club is very anxious to serve and help the community. Students, volunteers, and staff will enjoy a sense of both community pride and ownership, if they get involved. If you have any suggestions for service projects or are interested in volunteering, please contact Mike Andrus, site coordinator at Central Middle School, 430-0715.

David Carter is a Club Advisor of the Ogden (Central Middle School) Boys and Girls Club