Spotlight Issue: October — Acent Features the Alfond Youth & Community Center
This month, Acent turns our spotlight to a different local organization from our first Colby issue; one with quiet but powerful impact on the lives of young people every day right here in Waterville.
Alfond Youth & Community Center / Boys & Girls Club
Location: 126 North Street, Waterville, ME
The Full Story:
The Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC), home to the Boys & Girls Club and YMCA, is Waterville’s hub for youth development, character-building, and community strength. For children and teens of all backgrounds, it’s a safe place to learn, play, eat, and grow.
What makes them different:
Unlike many youth centers, AYCC doesn’t turn anyone away for an inability to pay. The club’s “no child denied” policy means scholarships and support are available for all programs, including swimming, summer camp, leadership programs, and after-school tutoring. Their on-site food pantry and free meals program meet basic needs alongside academic and character development, ensuring everyone has a real shot at success.
Programming and impact:
After-school & summer programs: Serve over 1,500 local youth annually
Hunger prevention: Since 2015, AYCC has distributed more than 1,000,000 meals and snacks to local kids and families
Learning & resilience: Academic support, STEAM workshops, leadership opportunities, and sports leagues for all ages
Safe space for all: LGBTQ+ affirming and trauma-aware, offering mental health counseling and bullying prevention
Community connection: Volunteers from Colby and across central Maine mentor, coach, and tutor regularly
Why it matters:
Waterville has one of the highest rates of child poverty in the state, and hunger, learning loss, or lack of safe supervision can all undermine kids' futures. For many, AYCC is a second home, a place where they get a hot dinner, a caring mentor, and a vote of confidence. Colby students volunteering here get a hands-on window into the lives of the city’s youngest residents, and help shape the next generation.
By the numbers:
1 in 2 kids in Waterville participates in AYCC or Boys & Girls Club programming
Over 60% attend on scholarship
Thousands of volunteer hours logged by Colby students annually
How you can help:
Donate money, snacks, or school supplies: Every bit helps make programs accessible
Volunteer as a coach, homework helper, or club mentor (flexible shifts for students!)
Advocate for funding for after-school programs and food security
Partner: Invite the club to speak at your Colby team, Greek org, or class
Learn more or support the AYCC:
Website: https://www.clubaycc.org/
Email: [email protected]
Volunteer sign-up: https://www.clubaycc.org/volunteer
Social: @alfondycc
Want to suggest a future spotlight or get your org involved? Email [email protected].
