This spring, the Gerald and Darlene Jordan Club in Chelsea brought together volunteers from across BGCB’s Clubs, united not by a single program, but by something they all share: a commitment to Boston’s young people, and a choice to give their time to that commitment.

The 2026 Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon was not just a celebration of individual awards. It was a reminder that across every Club, in every program, there are people quietly doing the work because they believe it matters.

Club Volunteers of the Year
At the Berkshire Partners Blue Hill Club, Emma Malone was recognized as Volunteer of the Year. For members in the ski program, Emma is a constant. Nearly every Sunday during the winter, she is on the slopes with them, offering encouragement, building confidence, and making sure every young person feels supported, no matter their skill level. Her presence on the mountain turns what could feel intimidating into something joyful and achievable.

At the Grousbeck Club of Charlestown, Jessica Lupo was honored for her dedication to the Club’s youngest members. Working closely with first and second graders, Jessica brings patience, attentiveness, and a genuine sense of care to every interaction. She creates an environment where young people feel comfortable exploring, expressing themselves, and growing in confidence.

At the Gerald and Darlene Jordan Club, Mimi Lynch was recognized for five years of unwavering commitment. With a background in education, she has become a vital part of the Club’s academic support team, stepping in wherever needed and always putting members first. When the Club faced a transition in leadership within its education program, Mimi increased her hours without hesitation, helping ensure that nothing was lost for the young people who rely on that support.

At the Edgerley Family South Boston Club, Alex Babson, a student at Boston College High School and the youngest volunteer at the Club, was honored for the relationships he has built with members. He volunteers regularly in Social Recreational programming and has a standing year-long pool match with a nine-year-old member. Alex started volunteering to fulfill school service hours. He stayed because the relationships mattered.

At the Yawkey Club of Roxbury, Onika Jenkins was recognized not only for her time, but for her leadership. A parent of four Club members, Onika has become a cornerstone of the Youth Parent Council and consistent presence across the Club community. From Torch Club and Keystone Club to Girls Group and a staff appreciation dinner she organized herself, she has built connections that strengthen relationships between families, staff, and members. Her impact extends well beyond any single role.

The celebration also recognized the power of partnership.

Volunteer Group of the Year
This year’s Volunteer Group of the Year, the Aicardi Early Steps program, represents what is possible when organizations come together around a shared goal. The Aicardi Early Steps program brings together three partners: BGCB, Literations (a trusted collaborator for more than twenty years), and Curry College (a newer partner bringing fresh expertise and resources).

Launched in fall 2025 at Edgerley Family South Boston Club and Berkshire Partners Blue Hill Club, AES provides literacy support for 1st through 4th graders. The results from the pilot are striking: 96% of participants demonstrated measurable growth on the mid-year literacy assessment. Program participants also receive a Curry College “Purple Pass,” which includes a year-end celebration, a five-year reunion for graduates, an application fee waiver, and a college admission and career coaching session.

Corporate Volunteer of the Year
And then there is KPMG, named Corporate Volunteer of the Year. KPMG’s relationship with BGCB began in 2022, when BGCB Trustee Co-Chair John Capone helped launch Tech Tuesdays, a six-week pilot at the Yawkey Club of Roxbury. Nearly four years later, the program runs across two semesters at three Clubs: Berkshire Partners Blue Hill Club, Edgerley Family South Boston Club, and Yawkey Club of Roxbury.

Dozens of KPMG volunteers spend Tuesday afternoons with members, teaching Excel, Microsoft Office, AI, and PowerPoint, with a final session hosted at KPMG’s downtown offices. Their engagement extends well beyond Tech Tuesdays, showing up for Community Impact Day, Edgerley Family Service Day, and more throughout the year.

During the afternoon, one thing became clear. No two volunteer experiences look the same. Some take place in classrooms, others on gym floors or ski slopes. Some are structured programs, others are simple moments of connection. But they all share the same foundation: a willingness to be present, a belief in young people, and a commitment to something larger than themselves.

Lexi Armstrong-Lewis, BGCB’s Volunteer Manager, put it simply: “What makes our volunteers extraordinary is that they don’t just give time. They become part of the community. They show up week after week, build real relationships, and invest in young people in ways that last long after any single program or season ends. We are incredibly grateful for every person who has chosen to be part of this work.”

If you are interested in becoming part of our community, we would love to have you. Learn more about volunteering at BGCB.