Fundamentals of Boys & Girls Club Program
In 1997 the Boys & Girls Club Movement spent a considerable amount of time and energy reflecting on and examining its core beliefs and mission. At the 1998 National Conference, the following were affirmed as fundamental principles and beliefs for the Boys & Girls Club Movement. Some of these are new, while others are reaffirmations of some of the principles that have led to the Movement's success for over 100 years.
Mission
To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens.
Core Beliefs
- A safe place to learn and grow
- Ongoing relationships with caring, adult professionals
- Life-enhancing programs and character development experiences
- Hope and opportunity
Youth Development Strategy
The philosophy underlying Boys & Girls Club programming is the Youth Development Strategy. This strategy defines how youth development professionals and volunteers interact with young people. All programs and activities are designed to maximize opportunities for young people to acquire four basic "senses" which help them build self-esteem and grow into responsible and caring citizens.
These four "senses" are:
A sense of competence
Young people feel proud and confident when they acquire new skills and know they can do something and do it well. This happens naturally through participation in programs, but it can be enhanced through a conscious effort to help girls and boys develop skills and to recognize them formally and informally for their achievements.
A sense of usefulness
Young people know the satisfaction of doing something of value for others. It is important to seek out opportunities for young people of all ages to do something useful for others, whether it is helping at the Club or participating in community service projects.
A sense of belonging
Young people know they are welcome and feel that they fit in and are accepted. This occurs naturally in Boys & Girls Clubs. It is enhanced through warm greetings from staff members when young people arrive at the Club, the use of membership cards, small group programs, Club T-shirts, publishing and posting names and photographs of young people involved in programs, or anything else, tangible or intangible, that helps young people feel safe, comfortable and accepted at the Club.
A sense of power and influence
Young people know their opinions are heard and valued and that they can influence decisions. This can be enhanced through participation in youth councils, discussion groups, interest surveys and other opportunities to contribute to the development of Club programs and rules.
The Youth Development Strategy should be consciously employed in every interaction youth development professionals, junior staff and volunteers have with young people in the Club. A friendly greeting, an acknowledgment of a new skill or improved behavior has a profound impact on all members. Youth development occurs in all aspects of Boys & Girls Club participation. Boys & Girls Clubs create a climate in which these important "senses" are fostered in every participant, member and guest involved in the program or just "hanging out."