Why the Boys & Girls Club is special
Four key characteristics define the essence of a Boys & Girls Club. All are critical in exerting positive impact on the life of a child:
- Dedicated Youth Facility - The Boys & Girls Club is a place - an actual neighborhood-based building - designed solely for youth programs and activities.
- Open Daily - The Club is open every day, after school and on weekends, when kids have free time and need positive, productive outlets.
- Professional Staff - Every Club has full-time, trained youth development professionals, providing positive role models and mentors. Volunteers provide key supplementary support.
- Available/Affordable to All Youth - Clubs reach out to kids who cannot afford, or may lack access to, other community programs. Dues are low, averaging $5 to $10 per year.
Based on research by Louis Harris & Associates, Club alumni have very strong feelings about their individual Club experiences:
- 80% said Club staff helped them learn right from wrong
- 95% indicated the Club was the best thing available in their community
- 52% said participating in the Club "saved my life"
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