Kids find Heights Youth Club

What is the best kept secret in Cleveland Heights? Some say that the Heights Youth Club is indeed that secret.

The Heights Youth Club is located at 2065 Lee Road is across the street from Heights High School. The club was founded by people who believed that kids in the Heights community needed a safe and enjoyable place to go after school and during the summer. Extensive research and analysis revealed the need for community based programming for kids.

Led by Reverend Louise Westfall of Fairmount Presbyterian Church, the nonprofit Heights Youth Club, Inc. (HYC) was founded in 2004. Its mission is to provide high quality programming that allows the children of Cleveland Heights to reach their full potential as productive, responsible and caring adults.

The board undertook rigorous investigations to determine how best to fulfill this mission and selected the Boys & Girls Clubs of Cleveland (BGCC) to operate the club. The BGCC has over 50 years experience with youth clubs in Cleveland. On January 3, 2007, HYC opened for membership. Membership is currently available to any resident of Cleveland Heights or anyone who attends the CH-UH City School District and who is between the ages of 6 and 18. Membership for an entire year of activities is only $10.

Led by Director Roscoe Morgan, club members have experienced outstanding growth and recognition. During January through June 2007, eight kids earned Merit and Honor Roll achievements at their schools. One year later, 77 kids received that recognition. There’s a secret worth sharing!

Not only is HYC focused on Education, there are other core programs instituted in its daily programming. They are Character and Leadership Development, Sports and Fitness, Career Development, Health and Life Skills, the Arts, Sports, and Recreation. Below are a few of the many programs offered at HYC:.

  • Computers and Keyboarding
  • Project Learn
  • Science Club
  • Public Speaking
  • Arts and Crafts
  • Theater
  • KRUMP and Capoiera dance
  • Badminton League
  • Passport to Manhood
  • Money Matters
  • Etiquette
  • Martial Arts
  • Smart Girls
  • Quilting
  • Family Plus

To date over 400 members have used the club's services. During this past June, the daily average attendance was 130 kids, an impressive growth over the 2007 June average of 71.

HYC is funded by the community. Volunteers aid in all programming. HYC encourages community involvement and welcomes your visit and interest. To learn more about HYC visit www.heightsyouthclub.org, or phone 216-321-CLUB.

Look for future articles from HYC members on programming and activities.

See you at the Club.

Debby Elliott is the Administrative Assistant for HYC and submits this article on behalf of  the HYC Board.

Read More on Heights Kids
Volume 1, Issue 8, Posted 9:17 AM, 10.22.2008