BGCSTC Announces Leadership Transition

St. Charles, MO - March 19, 2025

Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County (BGCSTC) will experience a leadership transition in 2025 as our Chief Executive Officer, Karen Englert, has accepted a new role with Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Government Relations team. While we are incredibly proud to see Karen expand her impact on a national scale, she will be greatly missed by our staff, Club members, and the entire BGCSTC community. In her role with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Karen will help secure federal and state funding for Clubs across the Midwest, ensuring continued support for critical youth programs.

Since joining BGCSTC in 2019, Karen has played a pivotal role in enhancing Club programs, strengthening community partnerships, and advocating for local youth. Her leadership saw the expansion of key initiatives like the award-winning ACT Prep Program and the successful launch of our Wright City Unit, extending services to more youth and families. Karen also improved fundraising efforts with a 40% average increase in special event revenue, championed vital safety and capital improvements, and secured over $1.2 million in new revenue. She stepped into the CEO role in March 2020, guiding BGCSTC through the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuring in-person services resumed in June 2020—vital for essential workers and families. Additionally, Karen led efforts to increase frontline staff pay by nearly 40% and expanded school-based programming to better serve the community's needs, and established partnerships to provide robust social/emotional services to Club members. Through her leadership, BGCSTC has been able to serve over 10,000 youth through direct services and outreach since 2019.

Reflecting on her time with BGCSTC, Karen shared, "The past six years have been an incredible journey. I am deeply proud of what our team has accomplished together to provide positive spaces and life-changing opportunities for young people in our community. I am grateful for our staff, volunteers, and supporters who make our mission possible every day and I look forward to celebrating the Club’s continued impact.”

The Board of Directors is confident in the state of BGCSTC, as the organization continues to thrive with strong programs, talented and committed staff, and a dedicated network of volunteers, supporters and stakeholders. To ensure a smooth leadership transition, the Board is actively working on interim leadership support and has already begun the executive search to identify the right leader to carry forward our mission and drive the continued success of our programs and services.

Karen will continue in her role as CEO until April 18th to ensure a seamless transition, and as we look to the future, we remain committed to providing safe spaces, meaningful programs, and endless opportunities for the young people we serve. Thank you for your ongoing support and understanding during this period of change. Together, we will continue to build great futures for our youth.

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About Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County

Celebrating 70 years of service in 2025, Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County (BGCSTC) provides a safe, nurturing environment where kids and teens can thrive. Offering caring mentors, enriching programs, and opportunities for growth, BGCSTC promotes academic success, leadership, and healthy lifestyles. Serving youth ages 5-18 through after-school programs, summer camps, and community events, BGCSTC empowers young people to become responsible, caring, and productive citizens. Learn more on bgcstc.org, Facebook, and LinkedIn.