AUBURN — Dozens of families came out to the annual Boys & Girls Clubs Day for Kids at the Auburn-Lewiston Clubhouse on Saturday.

In addition to the building being open for members and their families, the event welcomed families looking to learn more about the after-school program.

“It was a great day to meet parents and kids, new members and those returning to the club,” said Amy Boclair, education coordinator. “The energy level was high. Everyone seemed to be enjoying everything the club and staff offered.”

Boys & Girls Clubs across Maine and the nation threw open their doors this weekend to encourage families to spend time together. Day for Kids is a day set aside each year to celebrate and honor America’s children by spending meaningful time with them. It’s about celebrating kids: children, grandchildren or any child in need of mentoring.

Locally, parents and children had the chance to play games in the club’s gym and games room, while participating in some educational projects in the learning center. Clubhouse staff also provided a cookout.

“They can’t wait to get here,” said Gene Rousseau of Lewiston, who came to the event with his two sons. “Me and my wife wish we’d have thought of this place sooner. In fact, they get mad at me when I pick them up early.”

Rousseau’s boys — Jonah and Noah — weren’t in it for the hamburgers and hot dogs on Saturday. They came to cream dad during the parents-versus-kids dodge ball game that capped the event.

And while Rousseau jumped right into the game, parent Julie Lopez hung back and watched the massive game unfold between kids of all ages and their parents.

“I came out to support the event for the kids and get to learn more about the place,” said Lopez, whose children started coming to the clubhouse this school year. “This place keeps them out of trouble and off the laptop.”

Boys & Girls Clubs throughout the country and on military bases worldwide host Day for Kids events every September. Research shows that when adults spend time with kids, it helps kids develop a positive self-image and a sense of belonging, usefulness and purpose.

“Day for Kids is all about making a commitment to connect with the young person in your life and spend meaningful time together engaging in active play,” said Karen MacDonald, chief operating officer for Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine. “By having fun playing together, you will be creating memories that will last a lifetime.”

MacDonald said hundreds of families attended Day for Kids events at clubhouses in Auburn-Lewiston, Portland, Sagamore Village and South Portland on Saturday afternoon.

According to the Families and Work Institute’s study entitled “Ask the Children,” while children are happy with the amount of time their parents spend with them, they wish the time together was not rushed, but focused and rich in shared activities.

“I love hanging out at the club and helping people out,” said Austin Greeley, 14, a member from Lewiston who volunteered at the event. “I love coming here. I get to see my friends from Auburn and Lewiston.”