Westwood Boys and Girls Club-70 Years of Making a Difference

Westwood Boys and Girls Club

70 Years of Making a Difference

Lavenna Stambaugh

The Ashland Beacon

Not many organizations can claim a 70-year record of helping our youth. The Westwood Boys and Girls Club can. Established in 1956, it is the longest-standing youth organization in our region.

    Everything the Boys and Girls Club provides to children and families is absolutely free, thanks to donations and volunteers. Jim McKenzie and Mindy Hanshaw are two of the volunteers who make it all possible.

    McKenzie was especially eager to express his appreciation for Hanshaw. A nurse by profession, she still finds time in her busy schedule to volunteer at the club. He spoke highly of her dedication, saying, “If you have a need for a wonderful woman in your life, that woman is Mindy.”

    What makes this center unique is its after-school boxing program, which helps children and teens gain confidence and self-esteem. For some, boxing provides an outlet. For others, it offers the comfort of knowing they can protect themselves. Participants also have opportunities to travel and compete.

    The Westwood Boys and Girls Club can boast several champions over the years, including Silver and Gold Glove champions, Junior Olympians, and World Champions. All the coaches are USA Boxing-certified and must pass a background check. They are passionate about guiding youth toward success, not only in the ring but also in life.

    Each mentor completes a SafeSport course annually. This training teaches mentors to identify youth who may be suffering from abuse at home, at school, or elsewhere.

    Hanshaw states, “The goal of the club is to teach character, teamwork, and hard work to accomplish a goal, to strive to be the best person he or she can be in life.”

    McKenzie wanted to focus on the food pantry the Boys and Girls Club has established. Every Tuesday, families can come and receive enough food to meet their household needs. The pantry serves an average of 40 to 50 families each week.

    The pantry has also provided more than 150 meal boxes for Thanksgiving. At Christmas, the club has given gifts to more than 200 children and hosted a party with Santa Claus.

    The majority of the volunteers are between the ages of 65 and 85. They do a great job hauling in food donations and loading them for the many grateful families who come each week.

    The club is seeking help from the community to continue making such a huge impact. Whether you can offer your time, experience, food donations, or monetary gifts, any contribution is helpful and appreciated.

    If you are able to assist or are in need of assistance, please reach out. The club is located at 22–24 Main Street in Westwood and can be reached at 606.325.2664.