Core Program Areas
Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) offers tested, proven and nationally recognized programs in five Core Program Areas that closely align with the developmental needs of all young people: These programs are made available and implemented at the local Club le
• Character and Leadership Development
Helping youth become responsible, caring citizens and acquire skills for participating in the democratic process is the main thrust of these programs. They also develop leadership skills and provide opportunities for planning, decision-making, contributing to Club and community and celebrating our national heritage).
• Education and Career Development
BGCA has implemented the programmatic strategy Every Member, Every Year, designed so that all Clubs, no matter their size or resources, can partner with youth, parents, schools and other community stakeholders to implement at least one of three approaches: academic enrichment and school engagement; targeted dropout prevention; and intensive intervention and case management. Our aim is to ensure that all Club members graduate from high school on time, ready for a post-secondary education and a 21st-century career.
• Health and Life Skills
These initiatives 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.
• The Arts
Programs in this core area enable youth to develop their creativity and cultural awareness through knowledge and appreciation of the visual arts, crafts, performing arts and creative writing.
• Sports, Fitness and Recreation
These Club programs help develop fitness, a positive use of leisure time, reduction of stress, appreciation for the environment and social and interpersonal skills.
We also undertake specialized initiatives that cut across more than one program area and/or address the unique needs of special populations.
BGCA programs are designed to encourage Club members to realize a wide variety of positive outcomes, a strategy for developing the “whole child.”