City Times Staff

With September in full swing, the Boys & Girls Club’s Teen Center — The Club has reopened for the school year, providing academic support and programming that is relevant, fun and teen-specific.

The Teen Center now serves over 40 teens in seventh through 12th grades, and an additional 15 on average at the Homework Center, doubling numbers from September 2015.

The Teen Center is located within the new Berard Center at 941 Michigan Ave., with doors open during after-school hours, Monday through Thursday from 3 PM to 8 PM and Friday from 3 PM and 10 PM.

Thanks to a partnership with neighboring P.J. Jacob’s Junior High School, teenage members have access to the Homework Center, where they receive homework help, tutoring in various subjects, and a positive, productive area for teens to complete their school work.

To supplement the Homework Center, the club itself provides resources and programming for members searching for their first jobs, getting ready for graduation or preparing for their transition to college. The club organizes college tours, career fairs and interview coaching, and offers junior staff positions, where teens are paired with staff members and assist with specific programs and projects.

Beyond academics, the Teen Center offers a range of activities including art, cooking, sports, reading, gaming and more. Teens and staff have access to a kitchen, rec room, computer lab and free Wi-Fi.

Volunteer opportunities range from short, one-time projects to month-long commitments to specific programs such as the Homework Center or Power Hour. More information and applications for volunteer positions can be found at www.bgclubpc.org/volunteer.

For an annual fee of $10, the Boys & Girls Club Teen Center welcomes new members daily and encourages community members to stop in for a tour. Other club sites are located in Stevens Point, Plover, Junction City, Rosholt and Almond/Bancroft.

Visit the Boys & Girls Club of Portage County’s website for more information at www.bgclubpc.org, or find the group on Facebook.