Character & Leadership
Character & Leadership Development Programs help youth become responsible caring citizens, develop leadership skills, and learn how to engage in decision making, planning, and contributing to their Club and community.
Youth of the Year
Youth of the Year is Boys & Girls Clubs premier recognition program. It is our signature effort to foster a new generation of leaders, fully prepared to live and lead in a diverse, global and integrated world economy. Each year one youth is selected as the BGC of El Paso Youth of the Year. They then go on to represent El Paso in the BGC of American Annual Youth of the Year event.
keystone
Keystone is the Boys & Girls Club Movement’s most dynamic teen program. It affords teens an opportunity to gain valuable leadership and service experience. They conduct activities in three areas: academic success, career exploration and community service. Aaron’s Inc. sponsors the Keystone Club program as part of a multi-year teen initiative; a strategic partnership between Aaron’s Inc. and BGCA provides Clubs with the tools and resources to create a positive place for teens as well as for kids.
Million Members, Million Hours of Service
Studies show that young people who engage in service do better in school, maintain positive relationships with adults and avoid risky behaviors. The Million Members, Million Hours of Service initiative aims to engage 1 million Boys & Girls Club youth in service projects each year, with each donating at least one hour of service.
torch club
Torch Clubs are chartered small-group leadership and service clubs for boys and girls ages 11-13. A Torch Club is a powerful vehicle through which Club staff can help meet the special character development needs of younger adolescents at a critical stage in their development. Torch Club members learn to elect officers and work together to implement activities in four areas: service to Club and community, education, health and fitness and social recreation. The Torch Club Awards are presented annually to Torch Clubs with outstanding programs and activities in the four areas. Each year, Torch Club members from all over the country take part in a service-learning experience through the National Torch Club Project.
