Gary Klein

After graduating from Central Washington University with a B.S. in Recreation and Social Services in 1994, Klein began his Youth Development career at the Ft. Lewis Youth Service. He worked in various departments such as Leisure Services, Teen Recreation, and Athletics. Klein was hired as the Program Director at the Boys & Girls Clubs of South Puget Sound Gonyea Branch in January 1995. Klein remained in that position for 11 years. During his time as the Program Director, Klein enjoyed being a part of the lives of the children and families who attended the Gonyea Branch. His length of program service has allowed him to realize the full impact the Club has on its members and community. 

In 2006, Klein became the Branch Director at the East Side Branch. He has had the privilege of working in an extremely passionate part of Tacoma for the past 4 years. During his experience, Gary has learned many lessons, the one he values the most is the strength of positive relationships. This lesson has taught him to seek and develop these relationships with parents, members and community.

In May of 2010 Klein was named the Director of the new Donald G. Topping Regional HOPE Center and Henry T. Schatz Branch.  He is very enthusiastic about this position and understands the challenges of bringing two communities together. He feels that he is the product of the Boys & Girls Club training and opportunities. He has earned many awards and participated in various committees. Klein is very proud to hold “distinguished” level honors in the Boys & Girls Clubs of America Academy in the areas of Program Services and Management.  He is an active member of the BGCSPS team and Sunrise Rotary Club.