The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Augusta is marking its 75th Anniversary in
2026, celebrating 75 years of service to Augusta’s children and families under the theme “A Promise Kept: 75 Years for Augusta’s Kids.” Incorporated in 1951, the organization will recognize the milestone with a yearlong celebration and fundraising effort honoring its history while investing in the future of local youth.

For generations of Augusta families, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Augusta has provided a safe, supportive environment where young people can learn, grow, and develop the skills needed to succeed in life. From its earliest days, the Club was founded on the belief that when
children are given structure, mentorship, and opportunity, entire communities benefit.

“This anniversary represents a promise our community made to its kids 75 years ago—and one we continue to keep every day,” said Kim Evans, President & CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Augusta.

“This is not only a celebration of our past, but a commitment to our future. We are proud of the lives changed, deeply grateful to the supporters who made this impact possible, and more determined than ever to give Youth and Teens the Optimal Club Experience - preparing them for life and work by helping them climb the career and economic mobility ladders to a future
where they thrive in the workplace, become homeowners and economic contributors, and have the option to become an entrepreneur – making the American Dream real and attainable for themselves and their families.”

While discussions about establishing a Boys Club in Augusta began years earlier, the organization formally took shape in the early 1950s when local leaders partnered with Boys Clubs of America to meet a growing need for positive youth development. BGCGA was officially incorporated in 1951, creating a permanent home dedicated to helping young people make
constructive use of their time and reach their full potential.
Some notable local alumni include:

• Will Avery, former NBA Basketball player, Founder, Will Avery Basketball Academy
• Luciana Robinson, Commissioner, Augusta Housing Authority
• Daniel J. Craig, Chief Judge, Augusta Superior Court
• Ronnie Strength, Sheriff, Augusta-Richmond County
• Jordan Johnson, Commissioner, District 1, Augusta-Richmond County
• Brad Usry, President, Fat Man’s Mill Cafe
• Clyde Pilcher, Founder, Augusta Industrial Services
• Johnny Hebbard, Founder, Hebbard Electric
• Vernon Forrest, Professional Boxer and Olympic Athlete
• Maurice Johnson, Actor (TV/Film)
• Keith Robinson, Singer, Actor, and Producer

Today, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Augusta remains committed to its mission. Through programs focused on academic success, character & leadership, health & wellbeing, and life & workforce readiness, the Club continues to play a vital role in the community.

Throughout the anniversary year, the organization will highlight its impact through storytelling initiatives, alumni features, and community engagement efforts, while fundraising throughout the year to support programming and services for today’s Club kids. The celebration will culminate on November 5, 2026 with the Youth of the Year Gala, honoring outstanding young people and the legacy of those who came before them.

“This is truly a milestone for Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Augusta, and one that I’m especially proud to be part of as the Board Chair”, says Katie Sterba, who assumed her role in January. “As we reflect on 75 years of impact, we invite individuals and businesses across the community to join us in celebrating the milestone and supporting the next generation of
Augusta’s kids.”

If you’d like to support the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Augusta in honor of the 75th anniversary, please visit BGCGA75.org.