BGCTC Names Andrew Chase New Yelm Branch Director
Boys & Girls Clubs of Thurston County (BGCTC) announced Andrew Chase as the Yelm Branch Director for its newest Club opening September 5. Chase’s selection follows Yelm community partners and supporters advocacy for support and space to house the new Yelm Branch. Chase grew up in Yelm and most recently served as the Olympia Branch Director for BGCTC. He also brings six years of experience as a Youth Development professional with Boys & Girls Club through the roles of Program Director, Teen Coordinator, and Program Assistant.
“Having grown up in Yelm, I look forward to this opportunity to lead the new Yelm Club and give back to the community that helped shape me into the person I am today,” said Chase.
The Yelm Branch is the sixth Thurston County Club to serve school-aged youth during out-of-school hours with quality programs led by highly-trained youth development professionals. Parents and guardians of K-8 youth can attend the in-person registration August 22 & 23, 5:00 – 7:00 pm, at 105 W. Yelm Avenue (the former Yelm City Hall building). Space is limited and youth are registered on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Club experience supports youth during critical out-of-school hours, helps them see success is possible, and ensures members are on track to graduate from high school with a plan for future. Young people attending the Club experience fun and nurturing activities focused on supporting academic success, living healthy lifestyles, and demonstrating good character and citizenship.
“Having grown up in Yelm, I look forward to this opportunity to lead the new Yelm Club and give back to the community that helped shape me into the person I am today,” said Chase.
Chase’s credentials include graduating from Yelm High School, obtaining an A.A. degree from South Sound Community College, and currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree from Central Washington University. Building on BGCTC’s move to open a Club in Yelm, Chase will work to build relationships within the community to cultivate ongoing and sustainable support for the Yelm branch to help the Yelm youth realize their greatness. He assumes this new role on September 3.