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Columbus Clubhouse - Bronx SONYC Program

FREE middle school program at John E Grimm II Clubhouse focusing on academic success, healthy lifestyles, and character building. Ages 11-14 in Belmont/Fordham with art, leadership, and recreation.

The John E Grimm II Clubhouse (Columbus Clubhouse) is located in the Belmont/Fordham area of the Bronx and has been serving this community through Madison Square Boys & Girls Club. The SONYC program focuses on academic success, healthy lifestyles, and good character and citizenship. In addition to core programming, the clubhouse provides art, leadership, and recreational activities to middle school members.

DetailInformation
Address543 East 189th Street, Bronx, NY 10458
BoroughBronx
NeighborhoodBelmont / Fordham
Websitemadisonsquare.org
ProviderMadison Square Boys & Girls Club Inc
Zip Code10458

Age Range

11-14 years old
Middle school students

Cost

100% FREE
SONYC-funded Boys & Girls Club

Program Type

School’s Out New York City (SONYC)
After-school clubhouse programming

Category

Youth Development
Academics, wellness, character, citizenship

Columbus Clubhouse provides comprehensive programming across Madison Square Boys & Girls Club’s core areas:

  • Homework Help: Daily assistance with assignments across all subjects
  • Tutoring: One-on-one and small group academic support
  • Literacy Programs: Reading enrichment and writing development
  • STEM Learning: Science experiments, technology projects, math games
  • Educational Technology: Computer labs and educational software
  • College Prep: Introduction to college pathways and career planning
  • Sports & Recreation: Basketball, soccer, fitness activities
  • Nutrition Education: Healthy eating habits and meal planning
  • Wellness Programs: Physical fitness and overall health awareness
  • Triple Play: Boys & Girls Club signature health program (mind, body, soul)
  • Active Games: Daily physical activity and outdoor play
  • Healthy Snacks: Nutritious food provided during program hours
  • Character Education: Respect, responsibility, integrity, honesty
  • Leadership Development: Keystone Club, Youth of the Year opportunities
  • Community Service: Volunteer projects and giving back
  • Conflict Resolution: Peer mediation and problem-solving skills
  • Civic Engagement: Understanding civic responsibility and community involvement
  • Cultural Awareness: Celebrating diversity and inclusion
  • Visual Arts: Painting, drawing, sculpture, mixed media
  • Performing Arts: Music, dance, theater, talent showcases
  • Creative Expression: Writing, poetry, digital arts
  • Arts Exhibitions: Opportunities to display and present artwork
  • Arts Education: Learning from professional artists and instructors
  • Keystone Club: Teen leadership development program (ages 14+)
  • Student Government: Voice in club operations and programming
  • Peer Mentoring: Supporting younger members
  • Public Speaking: Presentations and communication skills
  • Project Leadership: Leading activities and special events
  • Game Room: Board games, foosball, ping-pong, pool
  • Sports Leagues: Organized team competitions
  • Field Trips: Educational and recreational excursions
  • Special Events: Holiday parties, talent shows, family nights
  • Social Activities: Building friendships and social skills

Madison Square Boys & Girls Club has been empowering New York City youth since 1884, making it one of the oldest and most respected youth-serving organizations in the country. With multiple clubhouses across the city, Madison Square Boys & Girls Club serves thousands of young people annually in under-resourced neighborhoods.

The John E Grimm II Clubhouse in Belmont/Fordham brings the organization’s proven model of academic support, healthy living, and character development to Bronx families. Through consistent, caring relationships with staff and a safe, positive environment, club members develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed.

  1. Visit Columbus Clubhouse
    Stop by 543 East 189th Street, Bronx, NY or visit madisonsquare.org.

  2. Tour the Facility
    See the clubhouse, meet staff, and learn about programs and activities.

  3. Complete Membership Application
    Fill out Boys & Girls Club membership forms including emergency contacts.

  4. Submit Required Documents
    Provide proof of age, medical information, and parent/guardian information.

  5. Begin Participating
    Start attending after-school sessions and engage in academic, recreation, arts, and leadership activities.

  • Boys & Girls Club membership application
  • Proof of age (birth certificate or school ID)
  • Emergency contact information
  • Medical/health information and consent forms
  • Activity consent and liability waivers
  • Photo/media release consent
  • Parent/guardian contact information
  • School information

Public Transportation

Subway: B/D to Fordham Rd (5 min walk)
Subway: 4 to Burnside Ave (8 min walk)
Bus: Bx12, Bx40, Bx42 routes nearby

Parks & Recreation

Belmont Playground (0.2 mi)
Fordham University Campus (0.4 mi)
Bronx Zoo (0.7 mi)

Libraries

Belmont Library (0.3 mi)
Homework help, free books, computers, youth programs

Community Resources

Arthur Avenue (Little Italy) (0.3 mi)
Historic neighborhood with restaurants, markets, cultural events

  • 140+ Years of Experience: Madison Square Boys & Girls Club’s proven youth development model
  • Comprehensive Programming: Academic + health + character + arts + leadership + recreation
  • Safe Haven: Stable, supportive environment in under-served neighborhood
  • Year-Round Operation: After-school during school year, full-day summer programming
  • Caring Staff: Trained youth development professionals building lasting relationships
  • Historic Belmont Location: Serving the vibrant Belmont/Fordham community
  • Leadership Pathways: Keystone Club and Youth of the Year opportunities
  • Free Membership: No-cost access to all programs and activities

Last Updated: November 25, 2025
Program Type: School’s Out New York City (SONYC) - Boys & Girls Club
Provider: Madison Square Boys & Girls Club Inc
Clubhouse: John E Grimm II Clubhouse
Zip Code: 10458