A sellout crowd of supporters packed the Harborside Hyatt Hotel, to honor the work of one on East Boston’s most respected institutions.The gala raised funds for the club’s many efforts including its summer program. The event included a silent and open auction, speeches honoring alumni and supporters and a keynote from former Governor Charlie Baker.
Founded on October 11, 1945, by Fr. Angelo Bongiorno and Salesian Brothers Ciampi and Fiori, the Salesian Boys & Girls Club of East Boston began as the Salesian Oratory, housed at the Paul Jones School. It later moved to 189 Paris Street in 1948 and was renamed the Salesian Boys Club. In 1970, it became a charter member of the Boys Club of America, and in 1990, reflecting its inclusion of girls, it was renamed the Salesian Boys & Girls Club. The Club expanded to a second location in 1995 and merged both units into 150 Byron Street in 2008, where it currently resides.
Throughout its 80-year history, the Club has stayed true to Don Bosco’s mission: to be a welcoming home, a social playground, a school of life, and a spiritual community. It continues to provide a safe, nurturing environment for youth, helping them build moral character, confidence, and a sense of belonging.
Over the years, many families (mostly immigrants) sent their children to the club on Paris Street knowing that their children would be safe and grow spiritually into productive citizens making East Boston the great community it is today.
Executive Director Michael Triant welcomed the many supporters and donors for enabling future progress and strides the club is making in East Boston and surrounding communities.
“Your dedicated commitment to the young people we serve over the past eighty years enables the Club to provide valuable programming
that helps our members grow to their full potential and become responsible, caring citizens in our community. We are grateful for your support and involvement,” noted Triant in the program’s welcoming letter.
