Character & Leadership
Programs are designed to empower youth to support and influence their Club and community, sustain meaningful relationships with others, develop a positive self image, participate in the democratic process, and respect the cultural identity of themselves and others.
Keystone Club
This group of high school boys and girls acts as junior staff and serves as role models for younger members of the Club. Its primary focus is service to the Club. The Keystone Club supervises our supper program, assists at special events, and helps keep the Club clean. The group coordinates two community service projects each year, has weekly meetings, and raises funds to go on a trip each year.
Torch Club
This group of 7th and 8th graders supports the Keystone Club by volunteering three hours a week at the Club. The group also helps at special events, coordinates a community service project, and raises money for trips.
Sportsmanship Award
This is awarded to a high school member who has shown great sportsmanship during the year. Winners don’t have to be an athlete, but must be heavily involved at the club and demonstrate good integrity and leadership. This is the second-most notable award at the club, after the Youth of the Year.
Youth of the Year
A Youth of the Year is chosen at each Club on the criteria of service to the Club, community and academic excellence, extracurricular activities, and leadership. Our Youth of the Year is then eligible to compete in the state, Northeast Region, and National Youth of the Year competitions.
Ours’ is the only Boys & Girls Club in the country to have two National Youth Of The Year winners and two national runners-up, along with four state winners.