Character & Leadership Development

Helping youth become responsible caring citizens and acquire skills for participating in the democratic process is the main thrust of these programs. They also develop leadership skills and provide opportunities for planning, decision-making, contributing to the Club and community, and celebrating our national heritage.

National Youth of the Year program is designed to promote and recognize service to Club and community, academic performance performance and contributions to family and spiritual life. Clubs select a Youth of the Year who receives a certificate and medallion then enters state competition. State winners receive a plaque, and $1000. State winners are also emtered in to the regional competition. Regional winners receive a $10,000 scholarship and enter a national competition held in Washington, DC. The National Youth of the Year receives an additional $15,000 scholarship and is installed by the President of the United States.

Torch Club is targeted for youth ages 11 to 13. With Torch Clubs accross 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 Club of America.

TEENSupreme Keystone Clubs are chartered small group leadership development clubs for young people ages 14 - 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.

National Keystone Conference: Keystone Club members from across the country gather in a different city each year to develop leadership skills, exchange ideas, debate and discuss current issues, and make friends. Each year, Keystoners select a national project for local Keystone Clubs to complete. The combined action of hundreds of local Keystone Clubs throughout the nation results in a project of national significance.

Member of the Month program recognizes Club members on a monthly basis in three program areas as well as an overall Member of the Month. These Club members are chosen based on their attendance, participation, behavior, attitude, and overall willingness to live up to the expectations of the Boys & Girls Club of Story County. Each of these winners are recognized at a Club wide meeting that is held at the beginning of each month.