Programs
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Character & Leadership
Helping youth become responsible, caring citizens and acquire skills for participating in the democratic process is the main thrust of these programs. They also develop leadership skills and provide opportunities for planning, decision-making, contributing to Club and community and celebrating our national heritage.
Keystone Clubs
Keystone Clubs are chartered small group leadership development clubs for young people ages 14 to 18. Keystoners elect officers, choose their own activities and plan and implement community service projects. A national charter entitles a Keystone Club to participate in regional and national Keystone conferences. This teen leadership program is funded by the Taco Bell Foundation.
Torch Club
This small-group leadership development program, sponsored by Staples, is targeted to youth ages 11 to 13. Within some 1400 Torch Clubs across the country, members elect officers and plan and implement their own activities and community service projects. Each Torch Club receives an official charter from Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
Youth of the Year
Sponsored by the Reader's Digest Foundation, the National Youth of the Year Program is designed to promote and recognize service to Club and community, academic performance and contributions to family and spiritual life. Competition begins with each Club selecting a Youth of the Year who receives a certificate and medallion then enters state competition. State winners receive a plaque and $1,000 scholarship then enter the regional competition. Each of the five regional winners receives a $10,000 scholarship and enters the national competition held in Washington, DC. The National Youth of the Year receives an additional $15,000 scholarship, totaling $26,000 in scholarships, and is installed by the President of the United States.
The Boys & Girls Club of the Alma Area also has a Junior Youth of the Month program. This program recognizes youth ages 10 to 13 for their commitment, loyalty, service and character shown at the Club.
The Youth of the Month at the Boys & Girls of the Alma Area receive a $50 savings bond or a $50 gift card thanks to our local banks. The sponsoring banks are First Community Bank, Citizen's Bank, US Bank, Bancorp South and Bank of the Ozarks. The Junior Youth of the Month program is sponsored by Wal-Mart and each winner receives a $20 gift card.
