WESTFIELD-For Greg Sheffield, the Teen Center at the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Westfield is a place to make new friends and explore a multitude of technologies that helps enhance his abilities as a musician.
“Visiting the Teen Center has helped me to flourish in my music,” said Sheffield, 14, who will attend Westfield Technical Academy this fall.
Greg Sheffield performs Thursday morning at the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Westfield Teen Center for his peers.
On Thursday morning Sheffield did an impromptu concert at the Teen Center that featured one of 50 songs he has written titled “A Glass Cap.” His peers were captivated about the message that everyone needs to bring out their inner power. He received some high five’s from friends after his performance.
“I enjoy being a part of the Teen Center and the Boys and Girls Club because staff members are so supportive,” said Sheffield, adding that club staffers have taught him ways to promote his music as well as introduce him to musical projects in the computer lab.
“My favorite part about the club is the climate here,” said Sheffield. “It’s a nice place to hang out and everyone is respectful of each other.”
While the Teen Center has been an integral part of the club for some time, what’s new is the availability this summer of teens ages 14 to 18 to stop in from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and enjoy the amenities.
“The best part of the summer program is membership is free,” said Ashley Orris, program and teen director.
Orris added that teens also receive a free lunch at 12:30 which is served at the Westfield Middle School.
The Teen Center focuses on six areas of interest to teenagers – study lounge, cafe with board games and puzzles, computer area, big screen TV’s for video games or watching shows, a pool table and ping pong table. An open gym time is also scheduled from 12:30 to 1 p.m.
“We also have backfields for teens to play soccer and wiffle ball,” said Orris, noting the most popular amenities are the drums and guitars available to use.
Free field trips are also another facet of the summer teen center and include bowling on Aug. 3 and a visit to the movies on Aug. 14.
For more information on the summer teen center program which is offered weekdays through Aug. 31, contact Orris via email to [email protected] or stop by the Boys and Girls Club to complete a membership form.
For Sheffield, he encourages teens to consider stopping in to check out the program.
“The staff cares about all of us,” said Sheffield. “They are like friends to us.”
