Boys & Girls Club of Washington County Marks 85 Years of Youth Development

The Boys & Girls Club of Washington County is set to commemorate its 85th anniversary throughout 2026, a significant milestone that underscores over eight decades of dedicated service to the youth of Western Maryland. The organization, which began its journey in 1941 as the Boys Club, has evolved considerably from its humble beginnings. Initially operating behind the Hagerstown farmer’s market and serving only boys in the city, it has grown to encompass broader communities and a more inclusive mission.

The Club’s history is intertwined with the growth of Hagerstown. Its relocation to the former Fairchild building on Pennsylvania Avenue provided a more established base, a location that remains its central hub and is now known as the Alice Virginia & David W. Fletcher Center. A pivotal transformation occurred in the mid-1990s with the formal inclusion of girls in its programs, reflecting a commitment to serving all young people. This period also saw the organization expand its reach by establishing its first of three sites within Hagerstown Housing Authority communities. The early 2020s continued this trajectory of growth with the introduction of programs in two Hagerstown Elementary Schools and the establishment of a presence in Allegany County, alongside a comprehensive renovation of its Pennsylvania Avenue facility.

“Our organization has a rich and storied history, and I can’t wait to celebrate all of it this year,” said CEO Addie Nardi. “We’re planning events and celebrations all year long to highlight not only the incredible work happening today, but the lasting impact this organization has made over the past 85 years.”

The yearlong celebration of its 85th anniversary will feature a variety of events designed to honor its past and highlight its ongoing impact. Kicking off the commemorative calendar, March will see a special recognition of former Youth of the Year recipients at the annual Youth of the Year dinner. In May, Washington County will host the Maryland State Youth of the Year competition, bringing together talented young individuals from across the state. The summer months are slated for a community-wide alumni reunion, offering an opportunity for past participants and supporters to reconnect. The year’s celebrations will culminate in November with a special 85th Anniversary Gala, a formal event to mark the conclusion of this significant milestone. An 85th-anniversary logo, which artfully blends the organization’s current branding with elements of its original emblem, was unveiled in December, serving as a visual representation of this important occasion.

Currently, the Boys & Girls Club of Washington County operates four after-school programs and summer camps within Hagerstown, in addition to a program in Cumberland. The organization’s core mission is to empower all young people, with a particular focus on those who face the greatest challenges, to achieve their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. Since its inception in 1941, the Club has been instrumental in the development of thousands of young individuals, and it continues to serve approximately 700 youth between the ages of 6 and 18 annually. The programs offered provide vital support, safe spaces, and opportunities for personal growth and skill development, contributing to the well-being of the youth in Western Maryland.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Boys & Girls Club of Washington County.

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