Logo for: Boys & Girls Club of Meriden
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Leadership & Service

The Boys & Girls Club of Meriden’s goal in our Leadership & Service programming is to build the skills needed today to be effective leaders tomorrow. We empower our members to support and influence their Club and community, sustain meaningful relationships with others, develop a positive self-image, participate in the democratic process, and respect their own and others’ cultural identities.

Keystone Club
Keystone is the Boys & Girls Club Movement’s ultimate teen program. This unique leadership development experience provides opportunities for young people ages 14 to 18. Youth participate both in and out of the Club in activities in three focus areas:
Academic success
Career preparation
Community service
With the guidance of an adult advisor, Keystone Clubs aim to have a positive impact on members, the Club and the community.

Mentoring
Club members in need of a role model are matched with an adult mentor committed to meeting with them on a regular and ongoing basis. Mentors and mentees meet at the Club, participate in fun activities together and develop a plan for the mentee’s future following high school graduation.

Torch Club
Torch Club is a chartered, small-group leadership and service club for middle school aged boys and girls. Torch Club is a powerful vehicle through which Club staff can help meet the special character development needs of younger adolescents at a critical stage in their life. Torch Club members learn to elect officers and work together to implement activities in four areas: service to Club and community, education, health and fitness, and social recreation.

Youth of the Year
Established in 1947, Youth of the Year is the Boys & Girls Club of America’s premier recognition program for Club members, promoting service to Club, community and family; academic success; strong moral character; life goals; and poise and public speaking ability. Local Clubs recognize members ages 14 to 18 annually as their Youth of the Year, who goes on to compete on a state, regional, and then national level.
State winners each receive a $1,000 scholarship and participate in regional competitions. Five regional winners each receive a $10,000 scholarship and compete on the national level. The National Youth of the Year receives up to an additional $50,000 scholarship and is installed by the President of the United States.

For more information or to register for these programs, please go to our Parent Portal.