John M Barry Boys & Girls Club of Newton

Here is a link to the service information for 90's and 2000's Clubber Chris "Chumba" Baia along with some additional photos of him from the archives. He was one of a kind and he will be sorely missed. https://www.nardonefuneralhome.com/obituary/Chumba-Baia

Let’s just say that when they hand you the shovel at the new Clubhouse ground breaking, it means you’re something of a big deal. Grown-up Clubber Chris Baia passed away this morning. From the moment he followed his brothers into the Dalby St Club, Chris was flat out never to be ignored. The Unsung Hero Award Winner in 2006 and Most Progress Award Winner in 2007, all who attended the Club in the 90’s and early 2000’s knew “Chumba” or one of his siblings. His smile was his calling card. So much so, it earned him a nickname that stuck for life (if you know, you know). He was the very definition of someone you laughed with, and not at, because he found the humor in absolutely everything. At the same time, as a mentor, a coach, or a volunteer, he displayed unmatched kindness and tenderness – especially when dealing with anyone who was vulnerable or who had been made to feel that way. A fierce competitor, no matter the odds, he always used everything he had to come out on top, regardless of the activity. He wasn’t above being a “rule bender” from time to time but sometimes that only made you like him more. Noone stood taller for their friends than Chris. Our hearts go out to his family and friends. Details will follow.

Our community partners at Newton Community Education, the I’m Amazing program, and the Newton Juneteenth Celebration are partnering with the New England Patriots for a day of youth sports, mentorship, and community celebration on Friday, June 19 at Newton North High School!

Members of the Patriots rookie squad will lead a non-contact football clinic for grades 5–12 from 10:30 AM–12:30 PM. The event will also feature basketball and soccer clinics for grades 3–9 from 1:00 PM–3:00 PM. The clinics will serve as the kickoff to a full day of events in Newton on Juneteenth and support scholarships for local youth programs.

Learn more and register: newtoncommunityed.org/Juneteenth

Newton Rotary's Dog Fest Event has moved to its rain date of May 31st! Bring your dog to Hyde Community Center on Sunday for a free afternoon of tail-wagging fun!

Looking for a fun, creative outlet for your child after school?

Join us for Charm Bracelet Club, every Thursday at 4:30pm. Kids of all ages can design their own personalized bracelets while exploring weekly themes like friendship, positivity and self-expression.

This hands-on program helps build creativity and confidence in a supportive environment.

Sign up today! https://www.newtonbgc.com/

Extra Extra. See Highlights from this year's Gala:
Thank you to the Fig City News for coming and putting together this article and album of our successful event.

Boys & Girls Club gala provides funding that changes lives On May 1, about 250 supporters of the mission of the annual John M. Barry Boys & Girls Club gathered for its 2026 gala on the theme, "Creating Tomorrow's Future." Inspired by personal stories of lives transformed by the Club, they raised funds to continue its more than 125 years serving the youth of...

The John M. Barry Boys & Girls Club is seeking a full time educator to lead our STEM Programming for the 2026-2027 School Year. Design your own curriculum that is in line with your interests and earn valuable teaching experience. This position comes with Mass General Brigham Healthcare paid at 80% by the Club, plus individual dental, life insurance, and pension all 100% employer funded. Get a head start and begin earning income right away supporting our Summer Day Camp Program. More details can be found here: https://john-m-barry-boys-girls-club.careerplug.com/jobs/3393977

Join us for AI Music Wednesdays, a hands-on program where kids can create their own songs using AI tools. They’ll experiment with writing lyrics and producing songs while building confidence and learning new skills.

No experience needed, sign up today! https://www.newtonbgc.com/

Thank you to all of our special guests, sponsors, donors, friends and families who came to celebrate Friday's Gala! What an amazing evening and successful even to support the JMBBGCN, thank you!

Missed the party? Check out this year's Mission Video from 43 degree films, Ace Eversley! and see for yourself why we need your help to Create Tomorrow's Future:

John M. Barry Boys & Girls Club of Newton John M. Barry Boys & Girls Club of Newton - Creating Tomorrow's Future