empowers youth to support and influence the Club and community, sustain meaningful relationships with others, develop a positive self-image and good character, participate in the democratic process, and respect their and others’ cultural identities.

The following three programs are key components of the Character & Leadership Development program at Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands:

Torch Club
This small-group leadership development program, is targeted to youth ages 11 to 13. Within some 1,300 Torch Clubs across the country, members elect officers and plan and implement their own activities and community service projects. Each Torch Club receives an official charter from Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

Keystone Clubs
Keystone Clubs are chartered small group leadership development clubs for young people ages 14 to 18. Keystoners elect officers, choose their own activities and plan and implement community service projects. A national charter entitles a Keystone Club to participate in regional and national Keystone conferences.

Youth of the Year
The National Youth of the Year Program is designed to promote and recognize service to Club and community, academic performance and contributions to family and spiritual life. Competition begins with each Club selecting a Youth of the Year who receives a certificate and medallion then enters state competition. State winners receive a plaque and $1,000 scholarship then enter the regional competition.

Each of the five regional winners receives a $10,000 scholarship and enters the national competition held in Washington, DC. The National Youth of the Year receives an additional $15,000 scholarship, totaling $26,000 in scholarships, and is installed by the President of the United States.