Teen Center Renovated at Hartford Boys & Girls Club

HARTFORD, CT — Aaron's, Inc., a leading omnichannel provider of lease-purchase solutions, and its divisions Aaron's and Progressive Leasing, surprised teens last week with a newly renovated Keystone Teen Center at the Asylum Hill Boys & Girls Club of Hartford. The event marked the 23rd refresh by Aaron’s, Inc. and Progressive Leasing in communities across the U.S.

Through a partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) and input from the teen members, Aaron’s associates and Club officials worked last Monday painting, decorating and furnishing a multipurpose space at the Club which includes a computer study area, game zone and lounge space. On Wednesday, local Aaron’s associates and Club officials unveiled the new space, which is now equipped with new technology, sectionals, tables and chairs, sound systems and fresh coats of paint. Teens chose the special Sherwin-Williams™ paint colors for the space: Lemon Twist and Fountain.

“We’re thrilled to provide furniture, consumer electronics, home appliances and accessories to the Asylum Hill Boys & Girls Club to improve the lives of at-risk youth in Connecticut,” said John Robinson, CEO of Aaron’s, Inc. “Aaron’s is committed to building strong communities by investing in the futures of young people across the country and we look forward to continuing that tradition.”

In 2015, the Aaron’s Foundation, Inc. announced a three-year, $5 million national partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Keystone Program, helping teens develop their character and leadership skills in hopes of helping them reach their potential and creating positive change in the community. Keystone Club teen centers provide members ages 14-18 an environment to plan and participate in activities that focus on community service, academic success, career preparation and teen outreach.

The 22 previous Keystone Club makeovers have included Boys & Girls Clubs in cities such as Los Angeles, San Antonio, Nashville, Las Vegas, Chicago and Milwaukee. The makeover at the Asylum Hill Boys & Girls Club of Hartford includes an additional in-kind retail donation valued at $28,000.

“Our ultimate goal is to provide life-changing programs and resources for as many teens as possible, and this renovation certainly makes that possible,” said Samuel S. Gray, Jr., President & CEO of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Hartford. “Aaron’s has helped give our teen members the opportunity to engage in programs that further their academic development and have access to resources to support their long-term college and career goals.”

Keystone teen members of the Asylum Hill Boys & Girls Club of Hartford said the program inspires them to take ownership of their choices to build the lives they deserve.

• “Keystone has impacted my life by providing new opportunities. It has helped me become a better leader and makes me excited to represent my Club in our community. I am really excited to take on the leadership role as the President of my Keystone Club!” - Kaycia N., 16 years old
  
• “Keystone has given me more opportunities to give back to my Club and community. This is something that I will take with me for the rest of my life.” - Andre T., 14 years old
  
• “Keystone has allowed me to learn and try new things that I never would have otherwise. It has made me be a better leader in and outside of the Club.” - Laisha M., 16 years old

Story and photo courtesy of Aaron's Inc.