Boys & Girls Clubs of America had its beginnings in 1860 with four women in Hartford, Connecticut – Mary Goodwin, Alice Goodwin, Elizabeth Hammersley and Louisa Bushnell. 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.

Our mission is To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.

Our vision is to Provide a world-class Club Experience that assures success is within reach of every young person who enters our doors, with all members on track to graduate from high school with a plan for the future, demonstrating good character and citizenship, and living a healthy lifestyle.

We have a commitment to inclusion and believe every kid has what it takes. The mission and core beliefs of Boys & Girls Clubs fuel our commitment to promoting safe, positive and inclusive environments for all. Boys & Girls Clubs of America supports all youth and teens – of every race, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, ability, socio-economic status, and religion – in reaching their full potential.

In a typical year, Boys & Girls Clubs provide a safe haven for 3.6 million youth, giving them an opportunity to discover their great futures.

Imagine a place where who you are, where you’re from or the circumstances that surround you don’t determine your access to experiences or opportunities. Through your support, Boys & Girls Clubs are making that vision a reality — in your community and communities around the world.

According to BGCA youth outcome data, 97% of Club teens expect to graduate from high school and 88% expect to complete some kind of post-secondary education.