Long before integration, Black communities were creating spaces where children could learn, grow, and belong. 

In 1885, the Wissahickon Boys Club opened in Philadelphia as the first Boys Club created to serve Black youth. Originally founded as a free kindergarten for the sons of formerly enslaved people and Black domestic workers, it grew into a place offering sports, tutoring, vocational training, and leadership development. At a time when most Clubs served white children only, Wissahickon stood as a powerful example of community care and resilience. 

Inside its walls, children found structure, mentorship, and opportunity. They found a place that felt like home. That legacy of collective care and leadership continues today through the people who show up for young people every single day. 

Few leaders embody that legacy more fully than Denise Overton Lewis. 

As we celebrate Black History Month and reflect on the history of childcare and youth development in Black communities, we also honor the leaders who carry that history forward. With more than 40 years of service to Boys & Girls Clubs of King County, Denise has shaped generations of children, families, and staff. 

When she first walked into a Club, she knew she had found her second home. The sense of family, shared mission, and deep commitment to leadership, character building, compassion, and inclusiveness resonated immediately. From her early days as a volunteer to her role as Operations Director, Denise has consistently led with heart. 

Her leadership has always centered people. She has created spaces where children feel safe and valued, and where staff feel supported and empowered. Mentorship, giving staff a voice, celebrating wins both big and small, and leading with consistency have guided her work. 

Colleagues describe her presence as steady and grounding. She is known for always checking in, for creating connection, and for building an environment where care is not performative but deeply felt. Step into her office and you will see walls filled with memories, pride, and decades of relationships built on trust. Her impact is not only visible in programs and outcomes. It is visible in the people she has mentored, uplifted, and encouraged. 

Representation matters in youth development. For children to see a woman of color leading with strength, compassion, and authenticity sends a powerful message about what is possible. Denise’s four decades of leadership reflect the same spirit that animated early Black youth spaces like Wissahickon. Safe spaces do not appear by accident. They are built by committed leaders who believe in the potential of every child. 

As Denise prepares for retirement this summer, her legacy is already woven into the fabric of the Club. Her dedication, resilience, and unwavering care will continue to shape the community she helped build. Her journey reminds us that Black history is not only something we look back on. It is something we live, lead, and carry forward every day. 

This Black History Month, we celebrate the historic foundations of Black youth development and the living leaders who continue that work with passion and purpose.