Character & leadership
Every youth who walks through the doors at Boys & Girls Club of Rochester has the potential to become a leader in their community. We offer programs designed to help our members practice and strengthen leadership and problem-solving skills. Through character and leadership programming, we challenge and empower our kids to become responsible leaders and caring community members.
Torch Club
Members learn and practice leadership skills by assisting staff around Club, creating their own service projects, and participating in community efforts like Litter Bit Better.
Torch Club is for members in grades 5-8.
keystone club
Members have a voice in decisions about Club and opportunities to complete community service projects. Keystone Club also plans fun activities for their fellow members, such as the annual Holiday Party in December, as well as the Back to School Bash right before the school year starts.
Keystone Club is for members grades 8-12.
Positive Action
Twice Weekly
Members learn about how to cope with anger using the “Meta-Moment”, increase self- esteem within themselves and others, and focus on making positive choices in the future.
Positive Action is for members in grades K - 12 .
OJJDP Mentoring
Weekly
Club youth ages 10 and up are paired with a YDP, who work with the members closely in small groups. Members can discuss real-life events, how school is going, and things they need support with.
Growing Up Black
As a nation, we are at a tipping point where racial injustice has been brought to the living rooms of every American, including our Club youth. Now, more than ever, Club's programs must continue to be a safe place for all youth. These safe spaces and programs can be provided to give youth a place to discuss what they are witnessing with trusted adults.
This program will highlight some of the experiences Black students are undergoing and provide an opportunity for youth to process their emotions and express how they feel about topics such as racism, being Black in America, and masculinity. Students will watch different videos and then participate in an open dialogue/listening session with the facilitator. All facilitators will be persons of color and will be willing to speak openly about their shared experiences as well.