The Historic Frank Callen Boys & Girls Club

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Our Story

The Frank Callen Boys & Girls Club was founded in 1917 by Frank Callen, a native of Savannah and the first African American Juvenile Court probation officer in Savannah-Chatham County. Mr. Callen saw the need for a safe place for young Black boys to go after school, and he organized a center in the basement of the Beach Institute.

The club quickly became a vital part of the community, and in 1922, it joined the Boys Club of America. In the early 1950s, the club began to accept girls as members. In 1954, the club was renamed the Frank Callen Boys Club to honor its founder, and in 1992, it officially became the Frank Callen Boys & Girls Club.

Today, the club is the oldest club in Georgia and has a charter to open clubs in Chatham, Bryan, Effingham, and Liberty Counties. The club's newest site opened in Hinesville/Liberty County in August 2023.

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Frank Callen Boys & Girls Club Today

As we celebrate the rich history of the Frank Callen Boys & Girls Club, we stand on the shoulders of our founders and countless volunteers who have dedicated their lives to nurturing young people. Our club has been a beacon of hope, providing a safe haven and opportunities for growth for generations.

Looking ahead, we are committed to carrying on this legacy and expanding our reach to even more youth in our community. Guided by our mission to enable all young people to reach their full potential, we will continue to offer a variety of programs that foster academic excellence, character development, and social responsibility. Our vision of a safe, welcoming place for youth and their families will remain at the heart of everything we do.

We are confident that by providing a strong foundation for our members, we are investing in the future of our community. Together, we will create a brighter tomorrow where young people thrive and contribute positively to society.