Teens

Teen Programs

Where kids have the stage

100%

Plan to graduate high school

90%

Expect to attend college

100%

Have adult mentors at the Club

85%

Volunteer in their community

Programs Designed for Teen Success

Our teen programs focus on academic success, career preparation, and developing the leadership skills needed for a successful future.

Smiling young woman with long dark curly hair wearing a Boys & Girls Clubs of Oakland T-shirt

Ages 16-18

Youth of the Year

Our premier recognition program celebrates the leadership, service, academic excellence, and outstanding character of our teen members. Youth of the Year finalists serve as role models and ambassadors for their Clubs and communities.

Program Highlights:

$20,000 scholarship opportunity
Leadership development and public speaking
Community service and mentorship

Three Club teens in hard hats and orange safety vests standing in front of the Bay Bridge

Ages 14-18

Keystone Clubs

Teen-led leadership groups where members take charge and make a difference. Members elect officers and get hands-on practice in leadership, communication, and teamwork through service projects and fundraising.

Program Features:

Officer positions and leadership roles
Community service projects
National Keystone Conference opportunity

Two teens in lanyards working together on a hands-on science activity at a table

Ages 13-18

Diplomas2Degrees

College readiness program providing a clear pathway to higher education. Helps teens set goals, explore college options, and understand steps to graduate high school and succeed in college.

Program Impact:

90% of club kids matriculate to college
Goal setting and academic planning
College preparation and guidance

Teens raising their hands in a classroom as a young leader in a blue shirt teaches at a whiteboard

Ages 13-18

Money Matters

Financial literacy program teaching real-life success skills through interactive activities and discussions covering budget management, saving for the future, and making smart financial choices.

Skills Developed:

Budget management and planning
Financial planning for the future
Real-world financial skills

A teen staff member serving treats to younger Club members in white Boys & Girls Clubs T-shirts at a craft table

Ages 14-18

Junior Staff

Work opportunities for BGCO Club teens who have been members for 2+ years and meet required academic metrics. Students earn income while gaining real-work experience.

Program Benefits:

Paid positions and income
Real work experience
Professional development

Teen Centers: A Space to Belong

Our dedicated Teen Centers provide a safe, supervised environment where older youth can:

Connect with peers and build lasting friendships
Access college and career resources
Participate in teen-only activities and events
Develop leadership skills through peer mentoring
Use technology and creative spaces

Join Our Teen Programs

Teens laughing together while building with robotics kits at a Club teen center table

From Our Teens to Tomorrow's Leaders

Our teen programs have helped thousands of young people graduate high school, attend college, and launch successful careers. Many return as mentors, continuing the cycle of positive impact.

Meet Our Alumni Success Stories