Lauren Utschig (via Boys & Girls Club of Newport County)

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County has a new Chief Operating Officer. Lauren Utschig steps into the role, bringing a wealth of experience in youth development, education, and behavioral health services. She’s no stranger to leadership, having held key positions with Boys & Girls Clubs, the YMCA, and other nonprofits.

Joe Pratt, the Club’s Executive Director and CEO, is thrilled about the new addition, saying;

“We are excited to have Lauren on our team. Her career has been shaped by a commitment to creating safe, engaging, and supportive spaces where young people can succeed. She is committed to bringing her experience and passion to our organization, and I look forward to working with her to ensure that the Club continues to make a lasting impact in the community.”

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Newport County has been a community fixture for over 69 years. It’s part of a nationwide network of more than 5,000 clubs and serves over 2,000 young people each year.

Ryan Belmore is the owner and publisher of What's Up Newp. He took over the publication in 2012 and has grown it into a three-time Rhode Island Monthly Best Local News Blog (2018, 2019, 2020). He was named LION Publishers Member of the Year in 2020 and received the Dominique Award from the Arts & Cultural Society of Newport County the same year. He has been awarded grants for investigative and community journalism, and continues to coach and mentor new local news publications nationwide. Ryan...