West Brattleboro has welcomed Club West, a new youth hub located in the lower level of the First Congregational Church. This initiative, spearheaded by Rev. Jeremy Kirk and other supporters, has been in development for approximately a year, aiming to create an inclusive space reminiscent of the punk rock shows often held in church basements.

The center’s main objective is to provide alternative programming for teenagers, promoting a sense of community without any intent to convert youth to religious beliefs. Currently, the church is financially supporting Club West, with plans for future revenue generation through events and performances to cover operational costs.

The inception of this center aligns with findings from the 2020 census, which highlighted West Brattleboro as a community facing economic challenges. Kirk emphasized the community’s need for a gathering place, acknowledging the high levels of generational poverty and the impact of substance abuse. There is a strong commitment from the church to serve local families and youths who often face limited opportunities for recreation.

Club West has begun activities, such as a recent a cappella show organized by Brattleboro Union High School students, which was met with enthusiastic participation. Regular events include game nights for children in grades 3 to 12 and rehearsal space for local choral groups. A unique feature of the center is its mutual aid store, allowing visitors to take items at no charge, with community members actively contributing supplies.

To enhance the center’s offerings, Club West has partnered with Everyone’s Books to distribute free books, and artist Zoe Holland is introducing art clinics starting in March, which promise to enrich the local youth’s creative opportunities. There are also plans for an after-school program based on community needs, promoting food preparation within the church kitchen.

As the center evolves, Kirk envisions that local teens will take the lead in programming the space, fostering a sense of ownership and leadership among the youth. Support for the project has also come from crowdfunding campaigns aimed at nurturing infrastructure and events.

Ahead of an upcoming fundraising concert aimed at financing an interfaith youth group’s educational trip to South Carolina, local musicians will perform to support both the trip and Club West, with a portion of the proceeds designated for the center’s expenses. The concert is set to feature various bands, including Lovelace, a new project led by Isaac Freitas-Eagan, who has a background with the interfaith organization and supports the mission of providing affordable, accessible entertainment for young individuals.

Freitas-Eagan highlighted the importance of creating accessible venues for youth that foster safe environments, allowing them to explore music and art without barriers, thus contributing to their personal development and community engagement.

The setup of Club West promises to be a transformative space for the youth of West Brattleboro, aiming to inspire the next generation to cultivate their artistic expressions while prioritizing community values.