Youth Centers offer military-connected middle and high school students in grades 6-12, a safe, supportive, and engaging space to spend time after school, on school-out days, and during summer break. Programs are free and open to eligible youth registered with Child & Youth Services (CYS).
Each center is staffed by caring, trained professionals who help teens build friendships, explore interests, and develop leadership skills. Youth voices are at the heart of every program and teens are encouraged to take an active role in shaping their experience and contributing to their communities.
Through partnerships with 4-H and Boys & Girls Clubs of America youth can participate in nationally recognized programs, earn awards, and attend special events. Program delivery is guided by a 5 Service Area Framework:
- Leadership & Life Skills – Citizenship, mentoring, and workforce readiness
- Education & STEM – Academic support, technology access, and hands-on learning
- Health & Wellness – Fitness, nutrition, and emotional well-being
- The Arts – Digital, fine, applied, and performing arts
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Sports & Recreation – Team sports, leisure activities, and outdoor fun
Whether it's preparing for adulthood, participating in the Military Youth of the Year competition (a national BGCA initiative), or simply finding a place to belong, Youth Centers help teens thrive.
More Than Just a Hangout Spot
At Youth Centers students find free snacks, a chance to blow off steam with sports or clubs as varied as Torch Club, Keystone Club, Smart Girls, Passport to Manhood, and Dungeons & Dragons. All locations have computer labs, art rooms, dance classes, pool and ping pong setups, and special events like field trips, BBQs, dances, and community service projects.
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