Boys & Girls Clubs of America

Boys & Girls Clubs of America had its beginnings in 1860 with three women in Hartford, Connecticut – Mary Goodwin, Alice Goodwin and Elizabeth Hammersley. Believing that boys who roamed the streets should have a positive alternative, they organized the first Club. With character development as the cornerstone of the experience, the Club focused on capturing boys interests, improving their behavior and increasing their personal expectations and goals. A cause was born.

Clubs provide a fun, safe and constructive environment for kids and teens during out-of-school hours, including summer and after school. Community-based and led by professional staff, Clubs serve small towns, large metropolitan areas, public housing communities, and Native populations, as well as those who live on U.S. military installations worldwide. They offer programs and services to help young people succeed in school, develop leadership skills, and maintain healthy lifestyles.