New expansion at The Boys and Girls Club at Truitt Community Center brings joy and excitement

SALISBURY, Md. – At the Truitt Community Center, The Boys and Girls Club celebrated the grand opening of their new facility. The expansion of their facility to 3,900 square feet. With the additional space, the program is expected to triple its membership this fall.

Members were extremely excited, and Thomas Whaley, a young member of the club, will never forget the moment. “I love it, it’s a great day, I don’t see anyone sad, I see everyone with smiles on their faces and I love today.”

The space has stem rooms, computer labs, and fuse ball tables. Club manager Enaka Beteck said, his purpose is to give back to the youth. He strives to provide them with the leadership they need to succeed in life.

“Sometimes even at home or even at school, they might not have that, so here we try to make sure, they feel welcome, they feel appreciated, that they have a voice, and that they matter.” Said Beteck.

The BGC Baltimore Metropolitan operates 11 club operations across 5 counties in Maryland. The President, Jeff Breslin, expanded operations to Salisbury because he knew this would help future generations. “Ultimately we are going to serve 105 kids here every single day, providing great programming and a safe place for them to learn and grow, but we also know we have a great opportunity for them to learn every single day.”

Bridgestone was at the event; they donated a passenger van to the club. This will address one of the biggest hurdles some families face, transportation. Area Manager, Kevin Chesla believes this will increase participation to give people the opportunity to come to the community center. He ensures community members, that if the van does have any issues, they will be there to fix it.

“It’s a new van, it’s brand new, so it’s safe, and the big thing with that is if they bring it back to Firestone, we take care of them and maintain them for them throughout the years, to keep them running long with great Bridgestone and firestone parts and tires.” Said Chesla.

Beteck is hopeful this will change the lives of young people who attend the Boys and Girls Club. “It means a lot to me, especially when this is the same neighborhood, I grew up in, so to see this, is very impactful.

The club is open Monday through Friday at 619 Truitt Street Salisbury, MD.

Membership is open to all youth, ages 6 to 18 at no charge to families. You can learn more here.