Baker Youth Club

Baker Youth Club is a non-profit youth development organization in Kosciusko County, Indiana, that provides structured supervision and programs for local youth. Established in 1926 as the Baker's Boys Club, it was the result of a challenge from Bramwell Baker, an East Coast banker who summered on Winona Lake. He offered to donate $1,000 if the city of Warsaw would match it to start a club for boys. The city accepted, and the club opened under the direction of Pete Thorn, a local teacher and coach. The organization became Baker Youth Club in 1994, a year after it opened its doors to girls.

The club's business model is centered on providing affordable care and development programs, sustained by donations, grants, and program fees. It receives funding from various foundations, including the K21 Health Foundation and Lilly Endowment, to support its operations and projects like a new playground. The organization offers before-school, after-school, and summer programs for children from kindergarten through grade 12. These programs include homework help, reading programs, STEM activities, physical fitness, meals, and transportation. The summer camp features themed weeks, field trips, and various projects to keep children engaged. The club operates from a 45,000-square-foot facility and serves nearly 300 children daily. Tracy Furnivall has served as the Executive Director since 2003, overseeing significant growth, including the acquisition of the current facility and expansion of program offerings.

Keywords: youth development, after-school programs, summer camp, child supervision, non-profit organization, youth enrichment, community engagement, educational programs, social skills development, physical fitness for youth, nutritional support, STEM education for kids, youth mentorship, Kosciusko County, Christian values, safe environment for children, character building, life skills for youth, youth transportation services, volunteer opportunities