Justin Clark, Chief Operating Officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Parkersburg, has been nationally recognized for his exceptional dedication to staff development and training. During the Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s national conference in San Diego last month, Clark received the prestigious Trainer of the Year award, representing the Midwest region.
The Midwest region encompasses 13 states, including West Virginia, Ohio, Illinois, and Michigan. Clark was honored for his outstanding leadership in delivering high-quality training to staff members across these areas, with a specific focus on strengthening the Boys & Girls Clubs network in West Virginia.
“I am humbled to have received this recognition,” Clark said. “Since joining the Boys & Girls Clubs movement in 2014, I’ve seen firsthand how training impacts not only staff but also the youth we serve. It’s a privilege to now help others grow in the same way.”
Clark’s work is part of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s National Trainers Initiative, launched in 2019. This program is designed to promote continuous learning and coaching among Club staff to ensure safe, engaging, and effective environments for young members.
The initiative includes two tiers of trainer certification and offers specialized training paths. Clark completed his Tier 1 certification in 2020 and achieved Tier 2 status in 2021, along with a specialization in Human Centered Strategies.
As a Tier 2 trainer, Clark is certified to train and certify new Tier 1 trainers—an effort he has taken to heart. In 2024, he set a personal goal to ensure every Boys & Girls Club in West Virginia had at least one certified Tier 1 trainer. By organizing two training cohorts in the fall, Clark succeeded in certifying 15 new trainers across the state.
“Justin’s enthusiasm is truly infectious,” said Lynn Reins, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Parkersburg. “His ability to make training both educational and enjoyable is what sets him apart. When working with kids every day, having staff who are well-trained and passionate makes all the difference.”
Clark’s impact has not gone unnoticed at the national level. Katie Lee, Director of Organizational Development at Boys & Girls Clubs of America, praised his efforts.
“Because of Justin, every Boys & Girls Club in West Virginia now has access to just-in-time training that supports safe and fun environments for children,” she said. “His commitment to quality training strengthens our entire network.”
Clark joined the Parkersburg team in October 2023 but has been part of the larger Boys & Girls Clubs movement for over a decade. His long-term vision includes continuing statewide training and preparing a third cohort of Tier 1 trainers later this fall.
Through his efforts, Clark has not only enhanced the capabilities of Club staff but also positively influenced countless children who rely on these programs for safety, support, and personal growth.
His Trainer of the Year award is not just a personal milestone, but a reflection of his commitment to building a stronger, more prepared network of youth development professionals in West Virginia and beyond.
