The Boys & Girls Club of Riverton has been a cornerstone of support, mentorship, and growth for local youth since its opening in 2021. Providing a safe and engaging environment, the Club offers a variety of programs that help Club members build character, develop new skills, and create lasting friendships.
For Cadence G., a longtime member, the Club has been more than just a place to spend time after school—it has been a place of transformation. “The number one thing I like to do is hang out in the tween room because there are tons of things I can do there,” she shared. “I’ve learned to be kind, to be good, and to believe that I am special.”
Like many youth, Cadence has faced challenges in her personal life, but she credits the Club with helping her through difficult times. “There was a time when a lot was going on in my life. I wasn’t paying attention, I was acting out. But since I’ve been coming to the Club, I’ve changed. They’ve taught me to be kinder to others.” Through programs like Cowboy Ethics and MindUp, Cadence has learned valuable life lessons about responsibility, kindness, and perseverance.
Cadence’s contributions to the Club go beyond her own personal growth. Staff members praise her for stepping up when younger members need help. Her mother, Shayni, also sees the impact of the Club firsthand: “The Club gives my children the confidence and experience they need to succeed in life. They have a supportive environment where they can thrive in school and in life!”
For younger members like Luke W., the Club is a place for fun and learning. His favorite game is Sprout Tag, and he appreciates staff members like Miss Emily, who “makes things fun and helps kids get excited about doing their tasks.” Beyond games and activities, Luke has also gained essential life skills at the Club. “I learned how to deal with bullies,” he said. “Whenever bullies are mean to you, you don’t be mean back because you want to be a good example.”
Luke’s mom, Sarah, is grateful for what the Club provides. “The Club is an amazing place for my kids to go. Not only are they in a safe place, but they have fun and learn while they are there.”
Programs That Make an Impact
The Boys & Girls Club provides a wide range of programs designed to support youth in all aspects of their development. From character-building and social-emotional initiatives like Cowboy Ethics and the MindUp program to academic support through homework help & tutoring and STEM activities, the Club ensures every child has the opportunity to grow and learn.
“The Club is a place where kids can be themselves, try new things, and build friendships that last. We’re all about giving them the support they need,” shares Jacque Stoldt, Area Director at the Boys & Girls Club of Riverton. She also emphasized that no child is ever turned away due to an inability to pay.
In 2024 alone, 262 Club members benefited from these impactful programs. Research from the Institute for Social Research at the University of Michigan, along with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming’s Outcome Initiative, highlights the Club’s value: for every $1 invested in the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming, $9.97 in benefits are returned to youth, families, and the community.
An Invitation to the Community
The Boys & Girls Club of Riverton invites the community to its 5th Annual Awards & Recognition Breakfast on Wednesday, April 23. Breakfast will be served at 6:30 a.m., with the program beginning at 7:00 a.m. This year’s honoree, Mary Axthelm, has dedicated nearly three decades to enriching lives in Riverton. Attendees will also hear from featured speaker Rocky Bleier, a Vietnam War veteran and four-time Super Bowl champion with the Pittsburgh Steelers. To sign up, go to https://bgccw.org/our-events/.
The Boys & Girls Club of Riverton is more than an after-school program—it is a place where youth find support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. With programs that build character, friendships that last a lifetime, and staff who truly care, the Club continues to be a vital part of the community, shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
