Honoring a Special Relationship – Boys & Girls Clubs of Stoneham & Wakefield Recognize Rotary

By Melissa Younker Vieira

When the Boys & Girls Clubs of Stoneham & Wakefield first started and needed a computer lab, they turned to Wakefield Rotary.

When the Clubs created an Open Parks program in the Summer so that Wakefield youth had a place to go, Wakefield Rotary helped expand the program to multiple parks in town.

Because of Wakefield Rotary, Wakefield youth had a place to play, learn and socialize while still under the supervision of employees of the Club.

When the Clubs were worried about underprivileged youth not being able to afford holiday gifts, Wakefield Rotary donated gift cards to local businesses so the Wakefield teens could buy presents for loved ones that they otherwise could not afford, creating an experience for the teens themselves to enjoy the holidays in a way many long to.

Now, as the Boys & Girls Clubs of Stoneham & Wakefield launch a series of new initiatives, it’s working with the Wakefield Rotary again – to ensure no child goes home hungry, curtail the opiate epidemic, and expand offerings.

"The Wakefield Rotary is a special friend to our Boys & Girls Clubs as well as all of Wakefield. They exemplify the idea of thinking globally but acting locally. So whether it's their commitment to ending polio worldwide or ensuring kids in Wakefield have access to homework help, food, or just a safe place to go, the Wakefield Rotary is the ideal service group. Its members and its mission are something all residents should be proud of," said Executive Director Adam Rodgers

The close relationship has continued. From attending events to leading service projects, the Wakefield Rotary has left an indelible mark on the kids.

"The Boys & Girls Clubs of Stoneham & Wakefield are dedicated to serving every youth in town, no matter their background, income, race, or creed. The Wakefield Rotary is proud to endorse their work whether it is with our time, talent, or treasure. Adam is right when he describes the relationship as a very special friendship dedicated to helping Wakefield," said Kathy Boyle, a Wakefield Rotarian.

Anthony Guardia, Chief Development Officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Stoneham & Wakefield, added "We're thrilled to be partnering with a number of Wakefield community organizations this year - Wakefield Community Access Television, the Wakefield Inter-Faith Food Pantry, Wakefield Unified Prevention Coalition, and especially Rotary which is involved in each of these organizations."

If you would like to serve a variety of local charities including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Stoneham & Wakefield, you’re invited to join the Wakefield Rotary for lunch every Tuesday at 12:15 pm at Harrington’s in Wakefield.