WARSAW — Today, $2,000 would not be enough to launch an organization, but in Bramwell Baker’s day, it was exactly what he needed.

Baker was a banker from the east coast who summered in the Warsaw area and had dreams of establishing a boys’ club. With a donation of $1,000, Baker challenged the city of Warsaw to match that amount. They succeeded and Baker Boys Club opened its doors in August, 1926.

Today known as Baker Youth Club, the organization is celebrating its 90th anniversary this summer. Organizers are planning a dual celebration from 3-6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 9,— in part to celebrate the club’s milestone year and in part to commemorate one of its most influential figures, Robert “Coach” Lichtenwalter.

Lichtenwalter began attending the club at age 10. In 1963, he became the second person to serve as its director, following Pete Thorn. After his retirement from this position in 1992, “Coach” continued to serve on staff.

Lichtenwalter passed away in July, 2015. The club is working to establish a memorial in the courtyard, which they have dubbed, “Coach’s corner.” A dedication is set for 5:15 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 9. The community is invited to attend this event.

Scott Wiley became the club’s third director in 1992, followed by its current director, Tracy Furnivall, in 2003. During that 11-year time frame, the club opened satellite clubs throughout Kosciusko County. Today, satellite clubs operate at North Webster Elementary School, Syracuse Elementary School, Milford School and Wawasee Middle School.

In 2004, work began on a new facility, dubbed the Lichtenwalter Center and the doors opened in 2007. In 2015, it was time to move again with the purchase and renovation of the old YMCA building on Smith Street.

Today, BYC offers an after-school program that includes homework help with certified teachers and teacher aides, a free snack and dinner and organized activities. Via the “Baker Bus,” students have transportation from Lincoln, Madison, Jefferson, Washington, Claypool, Leesburg, Eisenhower and Harrison elementary schools.

Students in grades 7-12 have their own, separate part of the building that includes a cafe, a gym and a game room. There is also free wifi in that part of the building.

To learn more about BYC, its activities and upcoming events, visit the club’s website. Registration forms for the upcoming school year are available here.