Program areas at Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Alabama
Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Alabama (bgcca), the oldest Boys & Girls club in the southeast, has been serving children ages 6 to 18 in birmingham and surrounding communities for over 123 years. Currently, the club operates 8 locations in jefferson, shelby, st. clair, and walker counties, serving 9,636 youth in 2023 through its Clubs and community outreach programs. Additionally, from january to september 2023, bgcca operated three 21st century learning centers at jonesboro, greenwood, and westhill's elementary schools within the bessemer city school system.in 2023, bgcca promoted healthy lifestyles for 1,743 unique youth. To address food insecurity, bgcca provided 47,521 usda-approved healthy meals. Furthermore, 59% of the youth reported engaging in 60 minutes of physical activity at least five times a week, and 71% reported consuming three servings of fruits and vegetables daily.
Character development programs at bgcca focus on fostering engaged citizens with strong character who are involved in their communities and registered to vote. In 2023, 1,669 unique youth participated in activities such as anti-bullying, community service, mentoring, youth of the month, and youth of the year. of these participants, 96% reported they could stand up for what they believe is right, even if their peers disagreed, 66% volunteered at least once a month at the club or in their community, and 93% believed they could make everyone in a group feel important if they were the leader.
Academic success programs at bgcca aim to prepare youth for graduation and readiness for college, trade school, military, or employment. In 2023, 1,193 unique youth received academic support, including college visits, career exploration, stem activities, and daily homework assistance. of these youth, 84% reported being on track to graduate on time, 92% reported having grades of b or better, 80% aspired to earn a four-year degree or higher, and 92% missed fewer than three days of school (with 77% missing no days at all).