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a place of belonging… for more than 100 years!

Leadership & Life Skills

Through mentor relationships, gender specific programs, and small group activities, staff support each member’s personal development. Teens learn job readiness in the Peer Leadership program and the practice of leadership in the Keystone Club. Teens organize and participate in violence prevention workshops, food & clothing drives, community clean ups days and other leadership activities.

Keystone Club

Keystone Clubs are chartered small-group leadership and service clubs for boys and girls ages 14-18. Keystoners plan and implement their own activities in six areas: service, leadership, education and career exploration, unity, free enterprise and recreation.

Torch Club

Torch Clubs are chartered, small-group leadership and service clubs for boys and girls ages 11-13 focusing on character development. Members plan and implement activities in four areas: service, education, health and fitness, and recreation.

Brian J. Honan Fellowship

In July 2002, the City of Boston and the Allston-Brighton community lost one of its shining stars when City Councilor Brian Honan passed away unexpectedly at the age of thirty-nine.

In an effort to memorialize him, the West End House Boys & Girls Club, with the support of Councilor Honan’s friends and family members, developed a program for young people that will perpetuate his memory and continue his life’s work of public service.

The Honan Fellowship is an initiative that empowers youth from across Boston to become engaged and influence change in their community, develop leadership skills, and stimulate an interest in public service.   Fellows learn about government and politics, identify neighborhood concerns, complete service projects, and meet with public officials and advocates.  The program includes a paid summer internship in a community agency or government office and ends with a community action project to create change in Boston.

From January to June, participants will attend weekly workshops at the West End House to discuss policy, access to services, and community challenges and visit the State House and City Hall.  Students will complete summer internships and lead a community action project in the fall to complete the program. For more information, please visit the Brian J. Honan Charitable Fund web site.

Peer Leaders

The peer leadership program provides valuable employment experience for teens at the Club. Responsibilities include guiding younger members through activities and co-facilitating violence prevention workshops.

Member Of The Month & Youth Of The Year

Each month, staff select a member of the month from each age group. Honorees are selected for exemplifying effort, participation, sportsmanship, teamwork and a positive attitude.

Boys Group And Sisters With Attributes

Each week, Club members have the opportunity to participate in Boys Group or Sisters with Attributes. Activities include learning about healthy foods, book & movie discussions, cooking classes, group projects, games, contests and more!

Second Step Violence Prevention

Led by staff and Peer Leaders, Second Step teaches youth realistic methods of avoiding violence and resisting peer pressure. Weekly workshops teach kids about the dangers of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco.