Our mission is to do whatever it takes to help all young people, especially those who need us most, reach their full potential and grow into caring, responsible, and empowered citizens.
America Needs Club Kids. Club Kids Need a Place to Grow.
In our city, where kids and teens need a safe place to explore, learn, and just be themselves, Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania (BGCWPA) is there. A place full of opportunities: STEM, sports, arts, meals, mentors, and more. From morning to evening, kids are supported, heard, and surrounded by community. Here, they find their voice and start paving their future.
Founded in 1888, BGCWPA has always been dedicated to activating the potential of youth. While our core model, safe spaces, caring mentors, and life-changing programs, remains constant, how we deliver these opportunities evolves with the needs of our communities. By staying adaptable, resilient, and innovative, we ensure we are always ready to serve children and families across Greater Pittsburgh.
Our Responsibility is to the Kids in Our Neighborhoods
We provide programs, mentorship, and support to help young people build a bright future.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania (BGCWPA) is one of the largest out-of-school-time providers in the region, serving over 10,500 youth annually across Allegheny and Somerset Counties. Our programs span preschool, before- and after-school care, summer camp, teen mentoring, workforce development, STEAM, and sports. We operate in 11 locations, including 5 Stand-Alone Clubhouses, 3 School-Based Clubhouses, 4 Teen Centers, and the TOP Program.
Guided by our core values of safety, fun, and inclusion, we create environments where kids are supported, inspired, and empowered. This foundation drives our mission and advances our commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunities they need to thrive.
Executive Leadership Team
Chris Watts
President & CEO
Lindsey Ramsey
Chief Operating Officer
Keith Gardner
Chief Financial Officer
Kara Petrosky
Vice President, Programs
Zoia DiMillo
Vice President, Advancement
In addition to our full-time and administrative services staff, we employ over 150 part-time youth program staff, coaches, and STEAM teachers.
Credentials of our staff include:
Mandated Reporter Training, Professional certifications from Boys & Girls Clubs of America, First Aid/CPR trained full-time staff, FBI Fingerprint Criminal History Clearance, and Act 33/34 (Child Abuse and Criminal Record) clearances for all staff and volunteers.
Administration Team
Floyd Cephas
Senior Director of Prevention & Mentoring Programs
Hersh Merenstein
Senior Director of External Affairs
Matthew Madjerich
Systems & Network Administrator
Michael Hepler
Director, Technology, Safety, & Security
Fotie Katsas
Director, Facilities & Fleet
Lindsey Perry
Area Director
Karyn Arokhaty
Accounts Payable Specialist
Amy Preisendefer
Assistant Controller
Liz Stieg
Sports Manager
Aerin Schlank
Family Resource & Operations Manager
Marquise Wheeler
Director, Program Impact & Partnership
Ellie Simmons
Teen Program Development, Manager
Mia Olivares
Marketing Coordinator
Board of Trustees
Thank you for your gifts of passion, dedication, and generosity in service of our mission!
Chris Watts
President & CEO
Vince Morales
Board Chair
Anita Carleton
Board Vice Chair
David Petrosky – Treasurer, Finance Chair
Andrew Miller – Secretary
TJ Gillespie – Investment Chair
Erica Smith – Safety Chair
Rob Cherry
Carey Cox
Erica Dean
Reggie Eiland
Jackson Elizondo – Advancement Co-Chair
Daniel Lavallee
Mike Mackey
Jen Papich
Hannah Pileggi
Michael Quigley
Lee Schmidt
David Scotti
Alexis Steals
Amanda Susko – Advancement Co-Chair
Peter St. Tienne Wolff
Keera Dwulit – Leadership On Board (CLCV)
Tana Sanchez – Leadership On Board (CLCV)
In addition to our Board of Trustees, we appreciate the dedicated advisory committees at our Stand-Alone Clubhouses for their local fundraising efforts, and passion for the youth and neighborhoods we serve.