OUR PROGRAMS
Year-Round Services to Des Moines Area Youth
At Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa, we help our kids succeed in all aspects of life. We know it takes caring mentors, a safe place, and quality programs designed to empower youth to excel in school and lead healthy, productive lives. We do whatever it takes to ensure all kids and teens in Des Moines have a great future.
​
Our programs provide low or no-cost opportunities for K-12th grade youth to participate in fun and educationally enriching activities in three core program areas: Academic Success, Character & Leadership, and Healthy Lifestyles.
Academic Success
Globally Competitive Graduates
Academic programs give all youth a space to explore, experiment, and expand on the lessons learned during the school day. Educationally enriching activities in every area of Club – from the gym to the art room and science labs – are intentionally designed to ensure all members have the opportunity to develop self-directed learning skills and foster a life-long desire to learn. By working closely in partnership with Des Moines Public Schools, our dedicated Club staff provide kids and teens with the resources they need to succeed in school and beyond.
Character & Leadership
21st Century Leaders
We aim to foster the next generation of leaders, fully prepared to live and lead in a diverse and integrated world. Club members develop a strong peer network, a deeper connection to their community, and an understanding of personal responsibility, social justice, and service through our leadership programs. We empower young people to support and influence their community, sustain meaningful relationships, develop a positive self-image, participate in the democratic process, and respect their own and others’ cultural identities.
Healthy Lifestyles
Healthier Generations
Increasing kids’ and teens' healthy habits will strengthen their ability to interact positively with others and form healthy relationships. Developing good habits early leads to better health and quality of life throughout adulthood. Healthy lifestyles programs teach kids the value of exercise, proper nutrition, fitness, teamwork, sportsmanship, and social & emotional learning.
​
Did you know? All BGCCI Club members and their families have access to a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) for ongoing crisis support and resource referrals.
Teen Pathways
At Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa, we believe teens need positive role models and experiences to help them pursue greatness. Our teen-focused programs provide after-school and summer services designed to offer a variety of experiences and skills as youth transition into adulthood. Teen programs, designed specifically for ages 13-18, provide meaningful experiences today so teens are ready to chase their dreams tomorrow. Students receive the individualized guidance, encouragement and resources they need to set and obtain their educational goals, whether that be through college, military, or trade school pursuits.
We are dedicated to serving teens at five teen Club locations: Bernie & Berniece Baker Club, Gregory & Suzie Glazer Burt Club, E.T. Meredith Jr. Club, Huskies Club, and McCombs Club
21st Century Community Learning Centers
21st Century Community Learning Centers funded summer programming for Callanan and Harding Middle School members at the Gregory & Suzie Glazer Burt Club and year-round programming for East High School members at the E.T. Meredith Jr Club in 2022-2023. Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa provided high-quality programming aimed at promoting life skills, academic success, community engagement, a healthy mind and body, and workforce readiness. Program attendees received meals and snacks during Club, as well as, additional foods and goods sent home, at no cost to families.
