Character and Leadership Development
Programs in this core area empower youth to support and influence their Club and community, sustain meaningful relationships with others, develop a positive self image and good character, participate in the democratic process, and respect their own and others' cultural identities. Programs in this area include:
- Youth of the Year
Youth of the Year is the most prestigious award a member can receive. It is a recognition program which promotes service to the Club, community and family, academic performance, moral character, life goals, poise and public speaking ability.
- Jr. Youth of the Year
This program is for members up to 12 years old.
- Torch Club
This citizenship and leadership program is for members 10 to 13 years old.
- Keystone Club
Keystone Club is a citizenship and leadership program for members 14 to 17 years old.
Education and Career Development
Programs in this core area enable youth to become proficient in basic educational disciplines, set goals, explore careers, prepare for employment and embrace technology to achieve success in a career. Programs include:
- Power Hour
Power Hour is a homework help and tutoring program that encourages members ages 6 to 18 to become self-directed learners. It is usually held from 3:30 to 5:00.
- Skill Tech
This hands-on Club Tech program teaches technology skills to members of all ages and abilities.
- Career Launch
Career Launch encourages members ages 13 to 18 to assess their skills and interests, explore careers, make sound educational decisions and prepare to join the nation's work force.
- Go Centers
Go Centers is a college readiness program.
- Money Matters
This program promotes financial responsibility and independence. Money Matters teachers members how to manage a checking account, budget, save and invest, start a small business and pay for college.
- Jr. Staff
This small-group program assists Club members ages 13 to 18 exploring a career in youth or human services, particularly Boys & Girls Club work.
Health and Life Skills
Programs in this core area develop young people's capacity to engage in positive behaviors that nurture their own well-being, set personal goals and live successfully as self-sufficient adults. Programs include:
- Healthy Habits
Health Habits emphasizes good nutrition, regular physical activity and improving overall well-being.
- Smart Moves
This prevention program helps young people resist alcohol, tobacco, drug use, and premature sexual activity. Age appropriate curriculum focuses on peer pressure and making wise choices.
- Kids in Control
Kids in Control is a safety program for members 12 and under that addresses topics including bicycle safety, stranger safety, and being aware of one's surroundings.
- Smart Girls
This is a small-group health, fitness, prevention, education and self-esteem enhancement program designed to meet the developmental needs of girls ages 8 to 17.
- Passport to Manhood
Passport to Manhood promotes and teaches responsibility in Club boys ages 11 to 14. It represents a targeted effort to engage young boys in discussions and activities that reinforce positive behavior.
- Netsmartz
This program teaches Internet safety skills through engaging multimedia activities and offline interactions with Club professionals in three age-appropriate groups.
- Triple Play
Triple Play is designed to incorporate healthy living and active learning in every part of the Club experience. Healthy habits are emphasized as well as good nutrition, regular physical activity and improving overall well-being.
The Arts
Programs in this core area enable youth to develop their creativity and cultural awareness through knowledge and appreciation of the visual arts and creative writing. Some programs are:
- MusicMakers
MusicMakers encourages Club members to have fun exploring music making and learning to play drums and guitar.
- Drama Matters Afterschool
This is a drama education program for Clubs that encourages members ages 6 to 18 to engage in hands-on activities. Drama education builds self confidence, sparks creativity and boosts academic achievement.
- Image Maker National Photography Program
This year-round program encourages Club members ages 6 to 18 to learn and practice black-and-white, color, digital and alternative process photography. An annual photography contest is also held.
- National Fine Arts Exhibit Program
This program encourages artistic expression among Club members ages 6 to 18 through drawing, painting printmaking, collage, mixed media and sculpture displayed at local and regional exhibits.
Sports, Fitness and Recreation
Programs develop fitness, positive use of leisure time, skills for stress management, appreciation for the environment and social skills. Programs include:
- Triple Play
This is a comprehensive health and wellness program that strives to improve the overall health of Club members ages 6 to 18 by increasing their daily physical activity, teaching good nutrition and helping develop healthy relationships.
- Basketball Leagues
- Flag Football
- Baseball/Softball Tournaments
- Volleyball
- Jr. Golf Tournament
For information about becoming a volunteer for a Boys & Girls Club Program, click here.