A Day of Leadership and Learning at the Future Leaders Summit
On Saturday, February 28, our Club Kids had an inspiring and empowering experience at the Future Leaders Summit at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Union County!
Throughout the day, members from our Club came together to connect with peers, share ideas, and grow as young leaders. The summit gave participants the opportunity to learn more about the Youth of the Year process, an important program that celebrates leadership, service, academic success, and strong character.
One of the highlights of the event was participating in engaging public speaking exercises. These activities encouraged our Club Kids to step outside their comfort zones, express their ideas with confidence, and support one another along the way. It was incredible to see their courage and growth as they practiced speaking in front of their peers.
Events like the Future Leaders Summit help empower our youth to believe in themselves, develop leadership skills, and prepare for the opportunities ahead. We are so proud of our Club Kids for showing enthusiasm, teamwork, and determination throughout the day!
The future is bright with leaders like these.
A Morning of Magic: Holiday Breakfast with Santa
On Saturday, 12/13, our families gathered for a festive Holiday Breakfast with Santa, and it was a morning filled with laughter, fun, and holiday magic. Kids and parents alike had a blast playing bingo, musical chairs, and a lively game of red light, green light. One of the highlights was seeing parents jump in on the fun—especially during red light, green light—where one lucky parent won a prize for their child(ren)!
Everyone enjoyed a delicious breakfast of bagels and Dunkin’ donuts, and the holiday spirit was definitely in the air. One excited child summed it up perfectly when he said, “It feels like Christmas already!” as he grabbed his donut and ran off to play.
We are incredibly grateful to DoorDash for their generous donation, which helped make this special celebration possible. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped create such a joyful start to the holiday season—we can’t wait to do it again!
Exciting New Classes & Activities at The Club
With the launch of our newest classes and activities, our members are buzzing with excitement, confidence, and creativity. From Bucket Drumming to the delicious fun of Jr. Chef Cooking & Baking, from Homework Help & School Ready sessions to Latin Dance and Art Class, our kids are exploring new passions and discovering what they’re capable of.
What’s been most inspiring is how much the members genuinely love these opportunities. You can see it in the smiles, the focus, the laughter, and the pride they take in learning something new. These programs aren’t just classes—they’re spaces where kids feel supported, connected, and free to grow.
And this is only the beginning. With more classes coming soon, we’re committed to expanding what The Club offers so every young person can find something that excites them.
This growth is possible thanks to supporters like you.
Our Annual Campaign plays a vital role in sustaining and expanding programs just like these. When you support the campaign, you’re doing more than giving—you’re helping create opportunities, build confidence, and shape brighter futures for kids in our community.
Click here to support the Annual Campaign.
These classes matter—and your contribution helps make them happen.
Thank you for believing in our kids and for helping The Club continue to grow stronger every year.
Click here to learn more about our activities and classes.
A Taste of Clifton Food & Wine Festival 2025 Recap
On October 27th, 2025, the community came together for an unforgettable evening at the A Taste of Clifton Food & Wine Festival, all in support of the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton.
With over 30 local restaurants, breweries, and vendors showcasing their best bites and sips, and more than 350 guests in attendance, the event was a true celebration of Clifton’s amazing community spirit.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who made this night such a success — from our dedicated volunteers and event committee members, to the participating vendors who brought their incredible food and drinks to share.
A very special thank you to our sponsors, whose generosity helped make this event possible:
Corradino & Papa, Garden State Honda, Kearny Bank, ShopRite, Sharp Electronics, JK Realty, Jag Physical Therapy, and Drea De Luca.
Most of all, thank you to every guest who came out to support the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton. Your participation helps us continue to provide a safe, positive space where kids and teens can learn, grow, and thrive every day.
We can’t wait to see you again next year for another incredible Taste of Clifton!
The Club Shines Bright for Lights On Afterschool!
On Thursday, October 23rd, all of our Boys & Girls Club of Clifton sites came together to celebrate Lights On Afterschool by participating in the nationwide Lightbulb Challenge!
October can be a busy month, but we made time to join this special event that shines a spotlight on the importance of afterschool programs. Across America, 7.6 million children are alone and unsupervised after school. Afterschool programs—like ours—help keep kids safe, support working families, and inspire learning, providing opportunities for young people to grow into successful, confident adults. 🌟
Our Club members and staff were proud to show their support and creativity through the #LightbulbChallenge, highlighting the impact of afterschool programs and the bright futures they help build. 💛 #LightsOnAfterschool
Launching Our Annual Campaign: Empowering Clifton’s Youth for the Future
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1C6uIbgsCb0
Opening Doors to a Future-Ready Generation at Boys & Girls Club of Clifton
At the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton, we believe every young person deserves the chance to step into a bright, successful future. For more than 165 years, Boys & Girls Clubs nationwide have been opening doors for kids and teens—helping them gain the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive in school, careers, and life. Here in Clifton, that mission is alive and well, as we continue to prepare our youth to be future-ready leaders, innovators, and changemakers.
Opening the Door to Opportunity
Every day at our Club, we see firsthand how opening doors early on can make all the difference. Whether it’s through engaging STEM programs, leadership workshops, or creative arts projects, we provide a safe, supportive space where young people discover their passions and build the skills that will serve them for a lifetime.
Opening the door means more than just access—it means guidance, encouragement, and the tools needed to unlock potential. Our members learn critical life skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and perseverance, setting them up to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the future with confidence.
Preparing Youth to Be Future Ready
Being future ready is about more than academics. It’s about developing the whole person. At Boys & Girls Club of Clifton, our Future Ready initiatives focus on equipping youth with skills in technology, leadership, and career exploration. These programs are designed to prepare members not just for their next step, but for a lifetime of growth and success.
We know that the world our kids will inherit is constantly changing—and that’s why preparing them today is so essential. By investing in our youth now, we’re opening the door to a generation that will innovate, lead, and uplift our community and beyond.
Join Us in Opening Doors
The Boys & Girls Club of Clifton is proud to be part of a movement that is shaping the future, one young person at a time. We invite parents, volunteers, and community members to join us in opening doors and creating opportunities for our youth. Together, we can ensure every child has a path to a bright and promising future.
Click here to make a donation and support the campaign
Let’s open the door to a future-ready generation—right here in Clifton.
Dinner Is Served! New USDA Grant Brings Free Meals to Club Kids
This past Monday, October 6th, we launched a dinner program across all 15 of our sites here in Clifton. Made possible through a grant from the USDA and in partnership with Pomptonian Food Service, this initiative ensures that every child in our after-school programs receives a hot meal before heading home for the evening.
In addition to after-school meals, our Gingerbread House early childhood members are now offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily — providing full-day nutrition for our youngest learners and supporting working families who rely on consistent, healthy meals for their children.
According to the USDA, 13.5% of U.S. households — about 18 million families — faced food insecurity in 2023. It’s a challenge that touches many in our community. We see hardworking parents doing their best, kids who could use extra support, and families stretched thin. Our dinner program is one way we respond — with nourishing meals, compassion, and a reminder that no one is alone.
“Kids need fuel, and families need relief — so we’re grateful to help,” said Gabe, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton.
The program is already making a difference.
“The kids are really enjoying having a hot meal after school,” said Paula Benjamin, Program Director. “The parents are also very pleased. We’re proud to be taking steps to ensure no child in our care suffers from food insecurity.”
At the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton, we focus on supporting the whole child — academically, emotionally, physically — and that begins with the basics. No child can focus, grow, or thrive on an empty stomach.
We are deeply thankful to the USDA, Pomptonian Food Service, our staff, and our families for making this program a success. Together, we’re not just serving meals — we’re strengthening futures, one dinner at a time.
To learn more about the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton or how you can support our mission, visit bgcclifton.org.
Discover Activities & Classes for Your Child at The Club
Looking for a safe, fun, and meaningful way for your child to stay active and engaged this fall? The Club offers a variety of after-school and weekend classes that promote creativity, learning, confidence, and connection — all within a supportive community environment.
Whether your child loves to move, create, cook, or just needs a little academic boost, there’s something for everyone this season.
What’s Being Offered This Fall?
This session’s lineup of classes includes options in creative arts, life skills, fitness, and academic support. Here’s a quick look at the types of programs currently available:
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Bucket Drumming
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Latin Dance
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Jr. Chef Cooking Class
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Baking Class
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Parent + Child Cooking Class
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Martial Arts
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Homework Help & Academic Enrichment
These programs are designed to support kids across a range of ages and interests — and even include opportunities for parents to participate alongside their children.
Why Choose BGC Clifton Programs?
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Supervised, structured enrichment in a safe environment
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Encourages creativity, teamwork, and self-confidence
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Taught by experienced instructors and supportive staff
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Great way to try new hobbies or build existing skills
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Options for all grade levels and interests
Ready to Enroll?
📌 All class registrations must be completed in person at The Club’s front desk.
🧒 Active Club membership is required for participation.
For full class descriptions, dates, times, fees, and age requirements, please visit:
👉 bgcclifton.org/classes-activities
Please note: Some programs have limited space and may fill up quickly. Be sure to review class details carefully — refunds are not available once registered.
2025 Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show Hosted by the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton
On Sunday, September 14th, the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton held its Annual Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show at 1255 Broad Street, bringing together local car enthusiasts, families, and community supporters for an amazing day!
Hundreds of vehicles filled the lot, from classic cars and muscle trucks to custom motorcycles and modern performance builds. Thousands of spectators came out to enjoy the day, and the energy from the community was felt from start to finish.
This event would not have been possible without the support of our sponsors. We’re incredibly grateful to Fette Auto, Corradino & Papa, Garden State Honda, Summit Health, and all of our other sponsors who helped bring this show to life. Your support directly benefits the Club and helps us continue to serve the youth and families of Clifton.
A big thank you as well to all the food vendors and exhibitors who brought flavor, energy, and variety to the day. Whether you were serving up meals or showcasing your work, you helped make the experience even more memorable for everyone who attended.
Most importantly, every part of this event supports the mission of the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton: to provide a safe, positive space for kids to learn, grow, and succeed. Community events like this allow us to continue offering high-quality programs that change lives.
Thank you to everyone who showed up, showed off their vehicles, or simply showed support. We appreciate you—and we’ll see you next year.
Carter’s Launches In-Store Giving Campaign to Support Boys & Girls Club of Clifton
This back-to-school season, Carter’s Inc. is partnering with Boys & Girls Clubs of America to support kids across the country—and right here in Clifton.
Starting today, August 20, Carter’s customers in the Clifton area can make a difference in the lives of local youth by making a donation at checkout at participating Carter’s stores. The in-store giving campaign will run through October 18, with proceeds directly benefiting the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton’s programs.
"We’re proud to partner with Carter’s on this campaign that directly benefits the kids and families here in Clifton,” said Gabe Blau, Boys & Girls Club of Clifton CEO. “Support from Carter’s and their customers helps us provide essential programs and resources that empower our members to succeed in school and in life. Every dollar donated makes a real impact, right here in our community.”
How You Can Help
When shopping at Carter’s between now until October 18, customers can choose to add a $1, $3, or $5 donation at checkout. Every dollar counts and stays local—directly supporting the Clifton Club and the kids it serves.
Your Donations at Work
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$1 can help a child ace a test or give a teen 20 minutes of leadership training
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$3 provides 18 minutes of hands-on programming
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$5 can feed two kids after school or give a child access to a team sport
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For every $1 donated, $10.32 in economic benefits is generated for the community
This campaign is part of Carter’s national initiative to help children recover from learning loss and continue building essential life skills through fun, enriching experiences.
To learn more or donate online, visit: BGCA.org/Carters