(BBC) is a 501(c)3 non-profit providing out-of-school time enrichment to the children and youth of Charleston's West Side community. is to provide West Side youth and their families with opportunities for holistic development (mind, body, and spirit) for healthy futures. Named after Reverend Bob Burdette (Associate Pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church from 1986-1995), the center was Bob's longtime vision to see an afterschool program opened at the church to serve the children and families of Charleston's West Side community. At its formation, the organization had two staff members and served 20 elementary-aged students at its Emmanuel Baptist Church location. The BBC provided these students with a safe-haven after school where they received homework assistance, a snack and were provided with a safe recreational environment away from the dangers of being a child, alone, in a risky neighborhood. ​ Nearly 25 years after being formally Incorporated as a 501(c)3 non-profit organization (August 25, 1998), the BBC continues to provide a healthy environment for individual growth that enables youth to experience personal success and become a positive influence in their community. Today, the BBC operates at four sites and currently serves grades Kindergarten through 5th. Middle School and High School students are referred to our community partner programs: PAAC, Step by Step, and The Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club of Charleston, WV. While the BBC continues to provide a safe haven, its focus has evolved to provide students with increased opportunities for college and career readiness, social-emotional and life skills, academic enrichment through tutoring and high-yield learning activities, mentoring opportunities, and opt-in faith based activities.
