In 1958, Paul C. Westlein organized the first youth football team in the Springfield area. In subsequent years additional teams were formed and other sports programs were developed. In August of 1962, Paul founded the Springfield Boys Club and it became a chartered member of the Boys Club of America. As the years went on, the Springfield Boys Club became the Springfield Youth Club and now the Springfield/South County Youth Club. Paul passed away in July 1999 but it is clear that the Springfield/South County Youth Club provides beneficial programs to nearly 10,000 children today because of the exceptional foresight and volunteer efforts made by Paul Westlein that started over 50 years ago.

The Paul Westlein Award for Volunteerism is now given annually to a volunteer who has made significant contributions of his time and efforts over the years in support of SYC programs and youth sports in this area.