Character & Leadership

Keystone Club

Keystone Club is Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s (BGCA) premier teen leadership program. This program for teens ages 14-18 is designed to promote character and leadership qualities among Club teens; to provide awareness and impact in the areas of community service, academic success, career preparation and teen outreach, the four focus areas of Keystoning.

Torch Club

Torch Clubs are chartered small-group leadership and service clubs for young people ages 10-13. A Torch Club is a powerful vehicle through which Club staff can help meet the 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, life skills, and community 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.

Youth of the Year

Since 1947, Youth of the Year has been Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premier recognition program, celebrating the extraordinary achievements of Club members. Each year, one exceptional young person from a Boys & Girls Club rises to the role of National Youth of the Year. The National Youth of the Year serves as both an exemplary ambassador for Boys & Girls Club youth and as a strong voice for all of our nation’s young people.

The journey to being named National Youth of the Year begins locally and progresses to state, regional and national levels, with opportunities for winners to receive various scholarships at each level.

Youth for Unity
Fostering Resilience and Understanding

Now more than ever, it is important for Club staff to partner with youth to create a safe and supportive environment. In this nurturing environment, young people need transformative opportunities, and experiences to build resilience and adaptability.

BGCA’s Youth for Unity program provides youth and parents with the foundation to help them build resilience and confront challenges. This program consists of a comprehensive set of activities and conversation starters that empower local Clubs to help members appreciate their unique strengths, recognize bias and unfairness, and take initiative in addressing these issues.