OUR HISTORY
Explore the history of Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue — empowering youth and building a stronger community since 1952. For more than 70 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue (BGCB) has been a cornerstone of youth development on the Eastside. Founded in 1952, the Club began as a single building in downtown Bellevue—a safe space where kids could learn, play, and grow under the guidance of caring mentors.
Today, Bellevue is one of the most diverse cities in Washington, with more than 104 languages spoken in local schools. Our Clubs reflect that vibrant diversity.
As our city has grown, so have the needs of its youth, and BGCB has stepped up to meet those needs. Through our programs, we ensure every child—regardless of circumstance—has access to the safety, mentorship, and opportunities they deserve.
Our Journey Through the Years
1952 – A Beginning in Downtown Bellevue
Bellevue Boys Club opens its doors on 100th Avenue, providing a fun and safe environment for young boys to go outside of school hours.
1970s – Pioneering Change
Decades before the national movement, Bellevue Boys Club welcomes girls as members and officially becomes Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue (BGCB), embodying inclusion and equality.
1990s – Empowering Teens
BGCB opens Bellevue’s first and only Teen Center, giving young people a dedicated space to connect, lead, and thrive.
2005 – Community Collaboration
In partnership with the City of Bellevue, BGCB opens the South Bellevue Community Center, a unique collaboration providing critical human services and recreational opportunities to families in need.
2015 – Expanding Our Reach
Through the Be Great Bellevue Capital Campaign, BGCB and the City of Bellevue partner once again to open the Hidden Valley Fieldhouse, creating new spaces for youth sports and community gatherings.
2016 – A New Downtown Clubhouse
Continuing the success of the campaign, BGCB celebrates the grand opening of its new Downtown Clubhouse, expanding access to programs and after-school care for Bellevue’s growing population.
2020 – Rising to the Challenge
When the COVID-19 pandemic forced schools and businesses to close, BGCB kept its doors open—providing a safe, consistent space for the children of essential workers and families facing new hardships.
2023 – Reimagining the Future
BGCB completes a full renovation of the Lake Hills Clubhouse, ensuring the next generation has modern, inspiring spaces to learn and grow. In addition, BGCB expanded operations to additional school sites across Bellevue.
2026 Bellevue School District Expansion
Building on a longstanding partnership with the Bellevue School District, Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue became the primary childcare provider across all preschool and elementary school sites in the district, expanding access to before and after school care for even more young people across Bellevue.
Today – Serving More Youth Than Ever
With 20 Club sites across Bellevue, BGCB serves nearly 17,000 youth annually, fostering a legacy of opportunity and hope for every child who walks through our doors.
