Character & Leadership Programs

Keystone Clubs

Dynamic leaders between the ages of 14-18 fill our Keystone Clubs. Keystoners devote their time to leadership and service in their communities. Each Keystone Club elects their own officers and implements their own activities in three focus areas: academic success, career preparation and community service. Club members and their advisors are eligible to be nominated to steering committees, which organize regional and national TEENSupreme Keystone Conferences that are attended by Keystoners all over the nation. Each year, Keystoners select a National TEENSupreme Project for their local clubs to complete. The combined action of hundreds of Boys & Girls Club Keystone Clubs across the nation results in a major impact on communities throughout the U.S.

Torch Clubs

Torch Clubs are leadership and service clubs for youths from ages 11–13. The goal of this program is to instill qualities of tolerance, civic duty, community involvement and leadership that promote an appreciation for the responsibilities of citizenship and the democratic process. Torch Club members learn to elect officers and work together to plan and implement community service activities, educational opportunities, health and fitness projects, and social recreation. Torch Club members also participate in service-learning experiences through the National Torch Club project.

Youth of the Year

Club members who exemplify our core values have the opportunity to be recognized as Youth of the Year and honored at our signature fundraising event the — Shining Stars Gala. These youth must meet rigorous eligibility requirements for academic achievement, community involvement and leadership of younger Club members. Local clubs begin by recognizing Youth of the Month, and then selecting their own Youth of the Year. These winners then have a chance to participate in the state, regional, and national levels to win academic scholarships.