06/02/2026
✨ Celebrating Leadership, Service, and Impact
The West Springfield Boys & Girls Club gathered with trustees, staff, and community leaders to reflect on another incredible year of serving local youth and families.
During our Annual Meeting, we proudly welcomed new trustees Joseph Kulig and Alexandra Balise and recognized several outstanding individuals and organizations whose dedication continues to strengthen our mission:
🏆 Club Ambassador Award
Ed Sullivan received the first Club Ambassador Award in our organization's history. For decades, Ed and his family have helped open doors, create opportunities, and change lives for local youth, leaving a lasting legacy that will be felt for generations.
🏆 Elizabeth Stanton Sullivan Award
Bill Flaherty, trustee and former West Springfield Fire Department Chief, for a lifetime of service and his continued commitment to our Club and community.
🏆 Harold G. Dickey Award
Foley Connelly Benefit Group, for years of sponsorship, volunteerism, and partnership in support of local youth.
🏆 Champion of Youth Award
P.E.R.T. Group, retired West Springfield educators, for more than a decade of generosity and dedication to helping our young people succeed.
🏆 Champion of Youth Award
Ben Palmer, former Club member, past trustee, and 1993 Youth of the Year, for providing essential scholarships and opportunities for the next generation of leaders.
🏆 Staff Excellence Award
Stephanie Chaffee, Senior Program Director, for her outstanding leadership, compassion, and dedication to our members and families.
🌟 We were also honored to celebrate our 2026 Youth of the Year, Arianna Hopkins, who received proclamations from Senator John Velis, State Representative Michael J. Finn, and Mayor Will Reichelt in recognition of her leadership and achievements.
Congratulations to all of our honorees, and thank you for helping create great futures for the 623 youth we serve each year. 💙
