OGDENSBURG -- The Ogdensburg Boys and Girls Club celebrated its 55th anniversary of serving local youth with a party Friday, Oct. 4 at the club, 610 Patterson St.

The event included a birthday cake, bounce house from Seaway Valley Jumpers, bingo and carnival games and more.

In addition to providing recreational opportunities, the club offers programs in character and leadership, health, education, STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math), sports and leisure. Homework and tutoring programs and reading programs are also offered.

Healthy snacks are provided daily and dinner once a week.

OBGC has about 550 members, with up to 125 students ages 6-19 attending on a daily basis during peak months. The club was established in 1964 and moved from State Street to the current facility in 1975, when it started offering programming for girls.

“In tough times, Boys and Girls Clubs have never been more important,” said Executive Director Tom Luckie Jr. “We will continue to strive to make the club a safe place, where kids want to be with caring adults to serve as role models and mentors for them.”

Luckie said the club is very lucky to have Assistant Director Megan McNamara, who has worked there 15 years. In addition to three full time employees, there are also 12 part-time employees, six junior staff members, and 27 board volunteers.

OBGC is open 2:45-5 p.m. and many evenings on weekdays from September to June and Saturdays from 6-9 p.m. December through February. Info: www.obgclub.com or 315-393-1241.