In 1945 a local businessman named Ben Weitsman founded a club for boys. When his son Fred asked “why are you working so hard on this project?” Ben replied “I’m making a place so that you and all of your friends will always have a place to play.”

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That was the beginning of the Tioga County Boys and Girls Club. On May 24, 1946 the Owego Boys Club was officially incorporated by the State of New York, with Ben Weitsman as the first President. The seven original businessman to incorporate the Club were Ben Weitsman, Delbert Hitchings, Donald Doty, George Boldman, John Barton, Myron Hartman and Harold Lynn. The first Board of Directors to serve were Ben Weitsman, John Barton, George Boldman, Donald Doty, Honorable S. M. Lounsberry, Sr., Harold Lynn, Paul Hooper, Rev. Frank J. Bauer, Emorey Mullen, Father Francis Dinoflo, William Conti, Myron Hartman, David Relihan, C. R. Noteware, Robert Ball and Donaldson Lowry.

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From 1946 to 1948 there was not a Clubhouse on Erie Street like there is today. The boys hopped around between the Owego Fire Panel, the Flats Community Club, and other borrowed space from the school, churches and local municipalities. Finally, on September 9, 1950 the Clubhouse was completed and became affiliated with the Boys Clubs of America. Over the next 20 years, the Owego Boys Club expanded its physical location, the programs offered and even the demographic it served. In 1972, the Owego Boys Club was officially changed to the Tioga County Boys Club and by the mid 70’s girls were invited to the club one day per week. It wasn’t until the 1990’s that Boys and Girls Club of America officially recognized girls.

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Since then, many contributions from community members have shaped “The Club” into what is known and beloved today. We are truly a community center for men, women, boys and girls. We offer athletic programs to both youth and adults because we believe a healthy lifestyle is achievable for everyone. We are proud to be known as a safe place for those in need. Please stop in and see for yourself!

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The Mission of the Tioga County Boys & Girls Club is to enable all young people, especially those who need us the most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. 

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Our core beliefs are to provide:

• A physically and mentally safe place to learn and grow 

• Ongoing relationships with caring adult professionals

• Life-enhancing programs and character development experiences

• HOPE & OPPORTUNITY 

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We have 15,000 square feet of space with two gyms, a fitness center, and an area designed specifically for kids under the age of 13. We have the capability to host a variety of sports and activities such as pickleball, basketball, dodge ball, volleyball, sports clinics & tournaments as well as an assortment of different social programs. Please feel free to explore our website for more information on the programs we offer for our community!

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