Boys & Girls Clubs, Museum of Discovery and Science Launch STEM Afterschool Program for Broward Youth

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County (BGCBC) and the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) have partnered to launch a new afterschool program designed to expand access to hands-on STEM learning for local youth.

Called Fueling Great Futures Through STEM, the initiative targets students ages 9 to 11 and combines science, technology, engineering, and math activities with cultural enrichment and life-skills development. The program will run during the Broward County Public Schools calendar year, Monday through Friday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., at MODS in downtown Fort Lauderdale. Additional hours will be available on early release and teacher planning days.

Students will take part in STEAM design challenges in the Museum’s Makerspace, outdoor exploration in the Science Park and Food Forest, quarterly field trips, and exclusive exhibit access after the museum closes to the public. Participants will also present their work at MODS’ annual Visit Lauderdale Science Festival.

Learners explore educational games during a computer lab session,
building foundational skills in logic, problem-solving, and digital literacy.
Credit: Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County

The year-long program, supported by Wayne and Lucretia Weiner with in-kind contributions from UKG, includes monthly enrichment activities such as IMAX® films, live science theater, cooking classes, simulator rides, and planetarium shows. Life skills workshops—covering topics like money management, first aid, chess, letter writing, and public speaking—will also be offered.

“This collaboration ensures that every child who walks through these doors can dream bigger, explore boldly and build the skills they need for a brighter tomorrow,” said Chris Gentile, co-CEO of BGCBC, in a press release.

In a press release, Joseph P. Cox, president and CEO of MODS, also said the partnership will give children “room to grow and expand their horizons by engaging in STEM-based activities in meaningful, creative and impactful ways.”

Participation costs $15 per child, per year for qualifying families. More information is available at bgcbc.org/mods-partnership.

A learner focuses on a hands-on art project, one of many enrichment activities designed
to spark imagination and self-expression. Credit: Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County

This is a Hy-Lo News Staff Report.

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