Helping Kids Do Their Best

Research has shown that children who participate in structured after-school activities perform better academically and have greater hope for the future. On the other hand, youth who are not supervised during the after-school hours are at much greater risk of becoming involved with negative behaviors, such as crime, teenage pregnancy and substance abuse. A recent study found that only 11 percent of America's young people attend after-school programs, while 25 percent - more than 14 million kids - take care of themselves.

With school back in full gear, kids - and their parents - will be looking for a safe, positive place for young people when they're not in school or at home. For more than 4 million of these youth, the answer is their local Boys & Girls Club. In addition to providing a safe, fun environment after school, Clubs also nurture young people's self-esteem by instilling a sense of belonging, usefulness, influence and competence. Clubs offer kids one-on-one relationships with caring, adult professionals, and provide engaging programs that help girls and boys realize their full potential.

This issue of The Positive Place features education and career development programs that are especially relevant as kids head back to school. You'll learn about our homework help and tutoring initiative, our overall approach to enhancing academic success, and a brand new effort to increase teenagers' financial literacy. From raising reading scores to reducing absences to teaching valuable life skills, Club programs are all about bringing out the very best in every child.

At Boys & Girls Clubs of America, we believe that every young person should have an opportunity to realize the American Dream. The generous support of caring people like you enables us to provide kids with the knowledge, skills and attributes they need to pursue their dreams and succeed in life. Thank you for your continuing support of our nation's youth.