Boys & Girls Clubs of Oakland - Developing Tomorrow's Leaders

Building Great Futures Since 1938

To inspire and empower Oakland's youth, especially those who need us most, by providing safe spaces, caring mentors, and life-enriching programs.

After-School

Safe, supportive programming every school day, giving youth a place to learn and grow.

Open until 8PM

Summer & Breaks

Full-day enrichment during summer and school breaks keeps youth engaged year-round.

8AM-6PM

Academic & Leadership

Tutoring, mentorship, and leadership development prepare youth for bright futures.

College & Career Ready

Arts & Sports

Creative expression and athletic activities build confidence and teamwork skills.

Enrichment

OUR MISSION

Every child deserves a chance to succeed

Boys & Girls Clubs of Oakland provides a safe, positive environment where youth can learn, grow, and develop the skills they need to become productive, caring citizens. With 3 clubhouses across Oakland, we serve 1,800+ young people every year.

Our History

Hear what giving back looks like

Listen to Murphy Taylor share his journey from a 1949 club member to a Booster Club leader. Discover how supporting youth through scholarships and field trips creates lifelong opportunities.

“My son loves the Boys and Girls Club so much. [...] It's just really been transformative. He's very happy.”

Alexandra

Parent of Maxi

“My son [...] had a very, very special experience with Boys and Girls Club. [...] It was really helpful and crucial in sort of reintegrating him into his community.”

Alexander

Parent of a 15-year-old

“My son [...] was sick with a cold last week and he refused to not go to school because he knows if he doesn't go to school he can't go to the Boys and Girls Club.”

Alexandra

Parent of Maxi

“My son [...] really admired the adults that worked there in an authoritative way but also in a way that he could relate to them, which I think really just emphasized his respect for authority in general in life.”

Alexander

Parent of a 15-year-old

We slow down the pace of the city to create space for curiosity, kindness, and calm discovery.

3.5

Grade Point Average

Our student-members carry an average GPA of 3.5 through dedicated academic support

100 %

High School Graduation

We ensure each member reaches their full potential and graduates prepared for success

90 %

Matriculate To College

Our members are empowered to pursue higher education and achieve their dreams

1800

+

Youth Served Annually

Transforming lives across Oakland communities with comprehensive programs

Programs that build character, confidence, and community

All programs

A Youth of the Year speaker smiling as she holds a microphone at a podium with a Boys & Girls Clubs of Oakland sign

Building Tomorrow's Leaders

Character & Leadership Development

Through positive group experiences and community service, we develop ethical, caring, and responsible citizens who will lead their communities.

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Two kids in the cockpit of an airliner pointing at the flight instruments at Aviation Day

Pathways to Success

Education & Career Development

Comprehensive academic support and career readiness programs that prepare youth for college and future careers in a changing world.

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A dental clinic volunteer talking with a Club member at a table with toothbrushes and dental models in a gym

Healthy Futures Start Here

Health & Life Skills

Promoting physical, emotional, and social well-being through comprehensive wellness programs and life skills training.

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A young girl wearing headphones singing into a microphone in the Club music studio

Express, Create, Inspire

The Arts

Unleashing creativity and self-expression through visual arts, performing arts, and digital media programs.

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FAQ

Have questions? We have answers.

Everything parents need to know about joining Boys & Girls Clubs of Oakland.

How do I enroll my child?

Visit our Contact & Enrollment page or call any of our 3 clubhouses directly. We accept youth ages 6-18 and enrollment is open year-round.

What are the hours?

During the school year, clubs are open 3:00-8:00 PM Monday through Friday (Wednesday 2:00-8:00 PM). During summer and breaks, hours are 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM.

How much does it cost?

Annual membership is affordable and no child is turned away for inability to pay. Contact us for current rates and scholarship opportunities.

What ages do you serve?

We serve youth ages 6-18 across our 3 Oakland locations: Anna Marie Whalen Branch, Leonard Meltzer Branch, and Ossian E. Carr Branch.

Is transportation provided?

Transportation varies by branch and program. Contact your local clubhouse for details about after-school pickup and program-specific transportation.

How can I support BGCO?

You can donate online, volunteer your time, become a corporate partner, or attend our fundraising events. Visit our Support page to learn more.