Founded in 1941 as the Boys Club, the organization first operated behind the Hagerstown farmer’s market, serving local boys from the city. It later moved to its long-term home in the former Fairchild building at 805 Pennsylvania Avenue, where the Club continues to thrive today.

The mid‑1990s marked a major milestone with the inclusion of girls in programming and expansion into the first of three Hagerstown Housing Authority communities. Growth continued in the early 2020s with the addition of programs serving youth in two Hagerstown Elementary Schools, Allegany County and the complete renovation of the Pennsylvania Avenue clubhouse—now the Alice Virginia & David W. Fletcher Center.

“Our organization has a rich and storied history, and I can’t wait to celebrate all of it this year,” said CEO Addie Nardi. “We’re planning events and celebrations all year long to highlight not only the incredible work happening today, but the lasting impact this organization has made over the past 85 years.”

The Club unveiled a special 85th‑anniversary logo at its Holiday Showcase in December. The design blends the organization’s current branding with elements of its original Boys Club emblem.

The 2026 celebration calendar includes:

• March: Honoring former Youth of the Year recipients at the annual Youth of the Year dinner
• May: Hosting the Maryland State Youth of the Year competition in Washington County
• Summer: A community-wide alumni reunion
• November: A special 85th Anniversary Gala to conclude the yearlong celebration

The Boys & Girls Club of Washington County currently operates four after‑school programs and summer camps in Hagerstown and one in Cumberland. The organization’s mission is to enable all young people—especially those who need us most—to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. Since its founding in 1941, the Club has supported thousands of young people and today serves approximately 700 youth ages 6–18 each year.

For more information, please contact Amanda Rossen at 301-733-5422, Ext. 208 or amandarossen@bgcwc.org.