Howard County is taking a significant step in expanding opportunities for its youth by partnering with Howard Community College (HCC) and the Boys & Girls Club of Metropolitan Baltimore to open a new Boys & Girls Club on the HCC campus.

The new club, backed by a $220,000 investment in the County’s fiscal 2025 budget, will initially serve 50 students and offer free programming and enrichment activities for Howard County middle and high schoolers.

“This partnership isn’t just about offering another program — it’s about creating meaningful opportunities for our youth,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. “By integrating the Boys & Girls Club into the college environment, we’re setting the stage for students to thrive in both their academic and personal lives.”

The Boys & Girls Club will guide students in this new setting. Jeff Breslin, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metropolitan Baltimore, emphasized that placing the club on a college campus provides an inspiring environment for students to explore their potential.

Howard Community College President Daria J. Willis noted that the partnership aligns with HCC’s broader mission to support students and their families. “This initiative meets a critical need in our community, providing students with the resources they need to succeed,” said President Willis.

This new club complements Howard County’s ongoing efforts to engage and empower young people. Since the Youth Engagement Programming (YEP!) grants launch in 2023, the County has reached over 8,000 youth through various initiatives. With an additional $500,000 allocated in the fiscal 2025 budget, the County’s total investment in youth programming now exceeds $1.5 million over the past two years.

Visit the Howard County website for more information about the new Boys & Girls Club and other youth programs.