in these hands - Boys and Girls Clubs of Boston

Yvonne, age 11, began coming to the Charlestown Club four years
ago, just after her father passed away. Her face is somber as she
remembers this difficult time in her life, but she explains that the
Club provided a distraction from her devastating loss and even
allowed her to have fun.
“It’s easy to make friends here, because you are hanging out with
girls your own age, and the staff are really easy to talk to,” she
explains. “I’m really glad I have the Club.”
At home, Yvonne has taken on a number of responsibilities to
help her younger brother and sister. As the oldest, she knows it’s
important to be a positive role model. She’s grateful to have Club
programs such as Girls’ Group and Strong Women, Strong Girls to
teach her how to communicate effectively while respecting herself
and others.
“Girls’ Group has taught me how to express myself when hanging
out with girls I know,” she explains. “It’s exciting to meet new people,
and learn how to stick up for myself in a peaceful way.”
Yvonne clearly values the programming at the Club, mentioning art
and music as two of her favorites. However, it’s the people who are
the real reason she loves to spend every day after school here. In
particular, she has formed a close bond with Zizi, the Club’s pre-teen
specialist, who has become a mentor and friend. “My mother is
working all the time so it’s hard to reach her. When I have a problem,
I can talk to Zizi and she will help me.”
in these hands