New London — City resident Catherine Foley has been appointed as the new chief executive officer of the Boys and Girls Club of Southeastern Connecticut, board Chairman Josh Lyons announced in a news statement.

Foley, the former executive director of Covenant Shelter of New London and director of the Community Development Initiative of the New London Development Corporation, started Oct. 1.

“Catherine brings a depth of experience in nonprofit management and a passion for creating positive outcomes for children and youth that is aligned with the core values of the Boys and Girls Club,” Lyons said in a statement.

The Boys and Girls Club of Southeastern Connecticut provides after-school programming to approximately 200 area children.

The group serves grades 1-5 at Claude Chester Elementary School in Groton, grades 1-12 from the Crystal Avenue Apartments in New London and grades 1-5 from the Winthrop Square Apartments in New London.

“The Boys and Girls Club provides a safe, nurturing environment with caring mentors and quality programs that empower children and youth to become productive, caring and engaged citizens,” Foley said in a statement. “I am excited to join the team in Southeastern Connecticut to ensure that all children, especially those in most need, have access to a great future.”