Karen Englert has dedicated her career to making a difference in the lives of young people. As the Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County, she has played a crucial role in expanding access to programs that provide children with educational resources, mentorship and life-enriching experiences. Her leadership is driven by a passion for youth development and a commitment to building strong community partnerships that ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.
Englert has spearheaded initiatives that focus on academic support, character development and healthy lifestyles, reinforcing the organization’s mission to inspire and enable young people to reach their full potential. She recognizes that success stems from a community-wide effort, collaborating with local businesses, educators and volunteers to create an ecosystem of support for youth. By fostering an environment where children feel safe, valued and empowered, she is shaping the next generation of leaders.
Under her leadership, the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County has experienced significant growth, both in membership and outreach programs.
She has worked tirelessly to secure funding that allows the organization to expand its services and impact more families. Englert believes that providing children with opportunities is not just about education but also about helping them develop critical life skills that will serve them well into adulthood.
Englert, a Second-Year Titan 100 Honoree, sees this recognition as an acknowledgment of her dedication to youth empowerment and community engagement. She understands the power of mentorship and strives to ensure that every child in her program has a positive role model who can inspire them to achieve greatness. Her commitment to fostering leadership in young people extends beyond club programming, as she actively advocates for youth policy reform and increased access to extracurricular activities.
Her influence extends beyond the organization, as she actively participates in policy discussions and advocacy efforts aimed at improving education and youth services. She frequently collaborates with local government officials, school districts and nonprofit organizations to address challenges facing today’s youth. Through her work, she continues to emphasize the importance of providing children with the tools they need to build successful futures.
Beyond program expansion, Englert is committed to addressing the mental health needs of children and adolescents. She has championed efforts to integrate mental health support within the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County, ensuring that young people have access to counseling and resources that promote emotional well-being. She believes that holistic support, including social-emotional learning and leadership training, is key to preparing children for adulthood.
Her vision for the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County is one where every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to grow, learn and thrive in a supportive environment. Through continued advocacy, partnerships and innovative programs, she is ensuring that the organization remains a pillar of support for young people across the region. “
