Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County

About

Overview Mission: The Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee Counties Mission is: “To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential, as productive, caring, responsible citizens” Constituency For over 69 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County has provided young people with a safe place to learn and grow. Our Clubs offer a dynamic learning environment that includes over 43 age appropriate programs, mentoring by caring adult professional and outstanding facilities. BGC programs include daily access to multi-faceted youth development activities full of fun and learning within a caring environment. Our three priority outcome areas include; Academic Success – Increase school attendance and academic success. Good Character & Citizenship – Increase positive community engagement, decrease juvenile delinquency, youth violence and gang involvement. Healthy Lifestyles – Increase healthy choices in nutrition and fitness, decrease substance abuse and teen pregnancy. Programming falls within the following categories as defined by Boys & Girls Clubs of America; Character and Leadership Development, Education and Career Development, Health and Life Skills, the Arts and Sports, Fitness and Recreation. To achieve our Great Futures Start Here outcomes (Academic Achievement & Feeling Safe and Belonging) the BGCMC provides a wide range of activities within our five program areas. The methods used to achieve our outcomes include tutoring and homework help, high-yield learning activities, technology education, physical activities, job skills training, art, music and dance classes, career camps, nutrition and cooking, along with ways to identify and avoid high risk behaviors. A few example programs include; Youth of the Year, Power Hour, SMART Moves, Triple Play, Passport to Manhood, Money Matters, Keystone and Torch Clubs. BGCMC currently has 7 Club facilities, 5 of which are on-site at schools strategically located in some of the most problem laden, economically distressed neighborhoods throughout Manatee County. BGCMC now provides services in 2 elementary schools (Daughtrey and Orange Ridge-Bullock), 2 middle schools (Harllee and Lincoln), and 1 high school (Southeast), as well as at our other 2 club locations (DeSoto and Palmetto Clubs). During 2014, BGCMC served almost 6,000 youths throughout Manatee County, including Club members and community outreach. Most of the youth we serve are ethnic minority (82%), low income, at risk of poor academic performance and/or eligible for free or reduced lunch (88%). The BGCMC Trifecta program provides age appropriate services and ongoing support for youths from elementary through middle and on to high school.