Teen Center

A Space for Teens to Connect, Grow & Lead.

Established in 2019, the Variety Boys & Girls Club of Queens Teen Center provides high school students with a safe, welcoming space to connect with their peers, build new skills, explore future opportunities, and develop as leaders.

Through academic support, leadership development, college and career readiness, workforce development, mentorship, and hands-on experiences, teens are given the tools and support they need to succeed in school, career, and life.

REGISTER here →

Questions about the program? Reach out to Teen Center Director Dion Seraneau at dseraneau@bgcqueens.org

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT THE TEEN CENTER?

There's more than one way to get involved.

Whether you're looking for a place to hang out after school, prepare for college, build leadership skills, get ready for the SAT, or just meet new people, there's something happening at the Teen Center.

  • Variety Boys & Girls Club of Queens
    21-12 30th Road, Astoria, NY 11102

    Grades: 9–12
    Teen Center Hours: Monday–Friday | 3:00–7:00 PM
    Fall 2026 Programming Now Underway


    Come recharge after school, connect with friends, get academic support, participate in activities and workshops, and make the Teen Center your space.

    Programming throughout the week includes:


    • Academic Support
    • College & Career Readiness
    • Leadership Development
    • Workforce Development
    • Workshops & Guest Speakers
    • Community Service
    • Social Events & Teen Activities
    • Youth of the Year Opportunities


  • Club Member to Community Leader

    Tomorrow's Leaders is a workforce development and leadership program designed to prepare high school students for college, careers, and community leadership.

    Teen leaders participate in professional development, mentorship, career readiness training, and hands-on leadership experiences working alongside VBGCQ staff and younger Club members.

    Monday – Workforce Development
    Build skills in resumes, interviewing, professional communication, teamwork, conflict resolution, public speaking, and career readiness.

    Wednesday – Leadership Practicum
    Put leadership into action by working with younger Club members alongside VBGCQ staff.

    Friday – Leadership Reflection & Planning
    Reflect on Wednesday's experience, strengthen leadership skills, and prepare activities for the following week.

  • Basketball. Good Vibes. Meet New People.

    Open Gym gives high school students a free, supervised space to play basketball, connect with friends, and enjoy time at the Club.

    Grades: 9–12
    Day & Time: Mondays | 6:30–8:30 PM
    Cost: FREE — DYCD Registration Required

  • Prepare With Confidence.

    Our SAT Prep program helps high school students strengthen their skills, prepare for test day, and work toward their college goals.

    Students receive structured instruction and support in key SAT subject areas.

    Grades: 9–12
    Day & Time: Saturdays | 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
    Cost: FREE
    Space is limited — registration required.

Teen Center Spotlight

Justin Jolly

Justin’s journey with the Boys & Girls Club began at age 14 through our Learning Bridges program in 2020–2021. From there, he continued to grow within the Club—becoming an LIT (Leader in Training), participating in SYEP (Summer Youth Employment Program), becoming a member of the Teen Center, and eventually joining our Aquatics staff as a lifeguard and swim instructor.


After graduating high school in 2025, Justin began his next chapter. Today, he is proudly serving in the United States Army. 


From Club member → teen leader → Club employee → U.S. Army, Justin’s journey is a powerful example of the opportunities, growth, and leadership we hope to inspire in every young person who walks through our doors.


“Even though the journey has changed, the destination stays the same: success!”
— Justin D. Jolly

Members Today, Leaders Tomorrow.


We’re proud of you, Justin! Your Club family is cheering you on every step of the way.

From Teen Member to New York State Youth of the Year

Gabriel Santini began his journey at the Variety Boys & Girls Club of Queens as a high school student looking for a place to play basketball and connect.

Through his involvement with the Teen Center, Gabriel took on increasing leadership, service, and opportunities throughout the Club.

In 2026, Gabriel was named New York State Youth of the Year, Boys & Girls Clubs of America's premier youth leadership recognition.

His journey represents what the Teen Center is all about: giving young people a place to start, opportunities to grow, and the support to become leaders.

Congratulations, Gabriel, on representing VBGCQ and inspiring the next generation of leaders.

Questions? Contact Director of Teen Services Dion Seraneau at dseraneau@bgcqueens.org