For over 50 years The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs have been unique places created by The Salvation Army that offer programs and services that exemplify and actively practice Christian principles. The mission of these clubs is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens. This is done in a way that causes recipients of our services to learn to admire the values, ethics and skills presented, and incorporate them into their own lives. To reach today’s young people and their families in a non-threatening way, our Clubs create an accepting, positive and challenging environment where young people of every background, circumstance, race, creed and religion feel welcomed. As part of the Salvation Army’s family and services, this program is offered to the poorest and neediest among us. It is for this reason that The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs are so vital to The Salvation Army’s mission and ministry.
How are The Salvation Army’s Boys & Girls Clubs similar to regular Boys & Girls Club Organizations?
Both are designed to serve the local needs of children in the communities in which they operate and both are chartered by Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Being chartered by Boys & Girls Clubs of America, both meet the membership requirements and standards of operation of the national organization, and share a common philosophy of youth development strategies and techniques. In addition, both take advantage of the many programs and services offered by Boys & Girls Clubs of America to its local affiliates. Although The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs are, in most ways, similar to regular Boys & Girls Club organizations they, nonetheless, are distinctly unique!
The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs have the advantage of being part of two of the most effective and trusted national nonprofit organizations in the world; thereby, benefiting from the vast experience and mission of both of these great movements. Further, as a Christian organization, The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs offer programs and services that emulate Christian principles.
The Club offers young people what they need and want most – adults who respect and listen to them; a safe environment where they can have fun and be themselves; and interesting, constructive activities that channel youthful energy into challenging pursuits.
Further, all Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club programs are based on a youth development strategy that builds character and self-confidence, and instills a sense of belonging, competence, usefulness and influence. Clubs offer daily access to a broad range of programs in six Core Program Areas:
- Education and Career Development
- Character and Leadership Development
- Health and Life Skills
- The Arts
- Sports, Fitness and Recreation
- Spiritual Development
