Newport Campus opens its doors to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County Teen Center

09/18/2024

The Community College of Rhode Island  has partnered with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County to relocate the B&GC’s Teen Center to CCRI’s Newport County Campus as part of CCRI’s Community First initiative.

Due to building renovations currently underway at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County’s central clubhouse on Church Street – the “Blueprint for Great Futures” capital campaign project – the Teen Center is relocating to CCRI’s Newport County Campus, a move that both the B&GC and CCRI hope will inspire and support Newport youth in pursuing a college degree.

“Hosting the Teen Center on our campus is truly a tremendous opportunity for everybody involved,” said CCRI Interim President Dr. Rosemary A. Costigan, Ph.D. RN. “This partnership allows students participating in the Teen Center programming to engage with our college community and explore our available educational and career pathways. We encourage all Boys & Girls Club youth to learn about the resources and support CCRI provides through our enrollment services and educational programs.”

“I love the space, but I am also excited about the future, the partnership with CCRI, and what we can do together,” said Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County Executive Director and CEO Joseph Pratt.

The Teen Center, open to community members between the ages of 13 and 18, provides myriad options for area youth, including homework assistance and meals in addition to programs such as workforce development, STEAM programs, Student Lead Council, music, dance, art, and more.

Based on the pillars of community engagement, student experience, holistic supports, and in-demand programming, Community First partners with local community organizations in areas most affected by intergenerational poverty and economic immobility to help Rhode Islanders find a clearer path to a college degree. Among its community partners are the Amos House, City Year of Providence, Clothes to Kids RI, Crossroads RI, and the Equity Institute. Community First also aims to provide enrollment services, financial aid support, and trainings and courses to members of impacted communities.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County was founded in 1956 to provide a safe place for youth, where they could find help with challenges and encouragement to reach their goals. For more than 68 years, the Club has grown and evolved while staying true to its mission of “inspiring and enabling all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.” 

As the leading youth guidance agency in our community, the Club continues to provide a positive, safe and fun environment for children and teens to learn and grow and plays a vital role in strengthening and supporting the community served.  Each Club activity falls into at least one of three core areas – Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles, and Character & Leadership Development - utilizing evidence-informed and evidence-based programs that put young people on the path to success.

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