Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago Announces
Michael Crowley as New President and CEO
Club Celebrates Transformational Successes of Retiring President and CEO, Mimi LeClair
Press Release
CHICAGO (June 7, 2023) – Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago (BGCC), a nonprofit dedicated to providing a safe and positive environment for the city’s youth through mentorship and high-quality enrichment programming, announces the appointment of Michael Crowley as its new President and CEO, effective July 1, 2023. Crowley will succeed BGCC’s current President and CEO, Mimi LeClair, who has provided visionary leadership since 2016.
Crowley’s impressive track record includes leadership positions in both the public and nonprofit sectors, as well as staunch advocacy on behalf of the LGBTQ community. Across all arenas, he has worked to drive positive change for under-represented communities and those with marginalized identities.
Michael Crowley, Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago's new President and CEO.
With a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to empowering youth and families, Crowley will leverage his insights from his prior roles and experiences to drive success at BGCC. He possesses an in-depth understanding of the unique challenges faced by youth in Chicago and has demonstrated a strong commitment to empowering young people and communities through his previous work with After School Matters, the Office of Chicago’s Mayor and in his role as BGCC’s Chief of Staff during the past two years.
As the newly appointed President and CEO, Crowley will build upon BGCC's rich history of providing essential programs and resources to children and teens across Chicago. Under his leadership, BGCC will continue to offer mentorship, academic support, career development and health and wellness initiatives – while strengthening community ties, prioritizing equity and ensuring that all Clubs are welcoming and inclusive spaces where young people can discover their best selves. By collaborating with local schools, businesses and community organizations, Crowley aims to expand the reach and deepen the impact of BGCC, ensuring that every young person in Chicago has access to the tools and resources they need to thrive.
"We are thrilled to welcome Michael Crowley as the new President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago," said Joseph Ferraro, Chairperson of the Board of Directors at Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago. "Michael's extensive experience, strategic vision and passion for youth development make him the ideal candidate to guide our organization forward."
Crowley's appointment comes as BGCC’s current President and CEO, Mimi LeClair, announces her retirement. LeClair has led the organization since 2016, and during her tenure, ushered in an era of unprecedented achievement. In addition to securing the organization's financial footing, she guided the expansion of BGCC's programs, enhanced its community partnerships and built its first newly-constructed Club in 25 years.
“Serving the youth of Chicago as BGCC's President and CEO has been the greatest privilege of my life," LeClair said. "I retire knowing the organization is in the very best hands with Michael. He and I have worked in lockstep for the past two years. I have no doubt the organization will reach new heights in its service to youth under his leadership."
The continued growth and expansion of BGCC signifies the organization's unwavering commitment to serving youth who most need and deserve opportunities. By expanding its reach and increasing its impact, BGCC can provide vital support to even more young people in underserved communities across Chicago.
For more information about Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago and its programs, please visit bgcc.org.
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago
Serving Chicago families since 1902, Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago (BGCC) uses a comprehensive blend of mentoring and programming to provide youth ages 5 to 18 the tools they need to become well-rounded and successful adults. Filling the after-school hours, which can be the most dangerous for young people, BGCC offers academic, social, and leadership activities for students in some of Chicago’s most challenged neighborhoods. Youth are matched with professional adult mentors, giving kids a safe place to learn, grow, and succeed. Learn more at: bgcc.org.
Media Contact: Francesca Callahan
(mobile) 239.776.5093