MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Hutchinson is continuing to invest in local youth while laying the groundwork for future improvements at its Shadduck Park Teen Center, where leaders say creating a sense of belonging is the foundation of everything they do.
Executive Director Lance Patterson recently provided a tour of the Shadduck Park facility, highlighting the programs, spaces and long-term vision that serve more than 300 registered teens.
Patterson said every visit begins with a membership card, which helps staff track attendance but, more importantly, gives young people a sense of connection.
"That's really important, and it starts with our membership card," Patterson said.
Throughout the building, teens have access to a game room, arts and STEM activities, woodworking, esports, a gymnasium and a student-run snack shop. Patterson said the club focuses on giving young people opportunities to explore their interests while learning responsibility, teamwork and leadership.
Staff members also encourage youth to live by the club's "GREAT" expectations: being generous, respectful, encouraging, accountable and trustworthy.
The Shadduck Park location operates in partnership with the City of Hutchinson, a relationship that dates back to 1995. Patterson said the partnership has allowed the organization to expand both programming and outdoor amenities.
The first phase of a multi-stage park improvement project has already been completed with the addition of a ninja course that is open to the public. Future phases include resurfacing the back courts with new basketball and pickleball courts, adding Gaga ball pits, improving the adjacent green space for soccer and flag football, and eventually installing a walking trail and fishing dock along Cow Creek.
Fundraising efforts are underway to support the next phase of construction, with proceeds from the organization's Youth of the Year fundraiser helping move the project forward.
The teen center serves just over 300 registered members and welcomes about 150 teens each day during the summer. Patterson said the facility also supports approximately 35 students participating in work-based learning programs with community partners, including USD 308, the Hutchinson Zoo and the YMCA.
Inside the center, teens also have access to a woodworking shop where they learn practical skills such as measuring, building projects and even introductory welding. Patterson said the goal is to let young people turn their ideas into reality while developing confidence and creativity.
"We really focus on academic success, character and leadership, health and wellness, and workforce development," Patterson said. "We give kids a lot of choice in what they're doing."
Now entering its 36th year in Hutchinson, Patterson said one of the most rewarding parts of the organization's work is seeing former club members return to volunteer, mentor and give back to the community that helped shape them.
"We're starting to see those alumni giving back and getting involved," Patterson said. "It's really cool to see them grow and be part of the greater community."