Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County

The Academic Success Initiative ensures that every child we serve achieves on time grade progression, graduates from high school, completes post-secondary education and earns a livable wage as a productive member of their community. In order to achieve this goal BGCMC offers a wide range of academic programs, from homework assistance to literacy intervention training for elementary school aged students.In the Fall of 2021 the traditional Boys & Girls Club after school program model was adjusted to support youth during the school day on school campuses and through our virtual services. Through our Girls Health & Girls Hands Program, and our Virtual Clubhouse we offered clubhouse programs to youth while they were in school. The change expanded capacity and educated youth with social-emotional programs, art programs and literacy programs. While program practitioners are not licensed clinicians, there is evidence that when youth are engaged in safe, predictable, structured activities with caring adults, they can reduce anxiety, depression, and mitigate post traumatic stress disorder. Programs are currently being offered virtually and on site. These services are a valuable resource for schools, youth and families.

The Good Character & Citizenship Initiative develops strong leaders and encourages youth to become community-minded individuals, engaged and informed. BGCMC staff consistently model good character and encourage youth to make positive choices and serve others. Youth of the Month and Youth of the Year programs emphasize servant leadership, community involvement and public service. Members receive public recognition and a platform to champion important initiatives. Youth of the Year is a BGCA program that shines light on the impact Boys & Girls Clubs have on America's youth locally and nationally.

The Healthy Lifestyles Initiative promotes wellness of youth and families. Targeted programs within the Healthy Lifestyles Initiative focus on prevention, with an emphasis on nutrition education, avoidance of risky behaviors, self-awareness, recreation and teaching youth how to navigate through sensitive social situations. Emotional wellness check-ins for youth occurred weekly throughout the summer of 2022, in person at the club facilities as well as through online afternoon programs. Utilizing the Skills Mastery and Resistance Training (SMART) Moves emotional wellness curriculum and other activities, BGCMC encouraged youth to maintain journals, communicate regularly with trusted individuals, and understand the benefits of meditation and yoga.