Celebrating 99 Years of Great Futures: A Legacy of Hope, A Future of Promise

For nearly a century, the Boys & Girls Club of Alpena has stood as a cornerstone of opportunity, guidance, and community for generations of youth. What began as a small local effort to give kids a safe place to go after school has grown into a powerful movement—one that has helped shape the hearts, minds, and futures of thousands of young people across our region.

As we celebrate our 99th Annual Great Futures Gala, we are not just looking back—we’re looking forward. Forward to our 100th year and the incredible milestone it represents: 100 years of changing lives, lifting families, and building a stronger Alpena.

Each decade has brought new challenges—and new reasons to rise. Through wars, economic downturns, and a changing world, one thing has remained constant: the Boys & Girls Club has been a place of stability and belonging, especially for those who needed it most. Whether it was after-school help, a hot meal, a caring mentor, or a safe space to just be a kid, our Club has been there.

And the stories speak for themselves:

A shy child who found their voice in our art room.
A teen who discovered their leadership potential through community service.
A family who gained peace of mind knowing their child was safe and supported every day.
A military-connected youth who found friends—and family—within our Club walls.

Tonight, we honor the past. We celebrate the countless staff, volunteers, board members, donors, and partners who have made 99 years possible. But more importantly, we reaffirm our commitment to the future—to every young person who walks through our doors, dreaming of something better.

As we count down to 100 years, we do so with gratitude, pride, and unwavering hope. Because Great Futures don’t just happen—they are built, together.

Here’s to the next chapter. Here’s to the 100th. And here’s to every child we’ve yet to meet.

2025 Great Futures Gala

Celebrating 99 Years of Great Futures: A Legacy of Hope, A Future of Promise