Who We Are
In every community, many boys and girls are left to find their own recreation and companionship in the streets. An increasing number of children are at home with no adult care or supervision. Young people need to know that someone cares about them.
For 100 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine has provided hope and opportunity to tens of thousands of young people. Our programs and services promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging and influence.
Boys & Girls Clubs are a safe place to learn and grow—all while having fun. They are truly The Positive Place for Kids!
Mission Statement
The mission of Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
Boys & Girls Clubs of
Southern Maine Provides:
A safe place to learn and grow
Ongoing relationships with caring, adult professionals
Life-enhancing programs and character development experiences
A Safe Place for Kids
Every day more than 400 boys and girls in
Southern Maine flash their membership cards to come into a safe haven where they are accepted for who they are; encouraged to do their best, and leave knowing they are valued and understood. Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine are proud to serve over 2,000 club members annually.
Dedicated Youth Facility
Boys & Girls Clubs are a place—an actual neighborhood-based building designed solely for youth programs and activities.
Open Regularly
Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern
Maine are open regularly, when kids have free time and need positive, productive outlets. Check Club locations for specific days and times.
Professional Staff
Every Club has trained youth development professionals, who are positive role models and mentors. Volunteers and Interns also provide key supplementary support.
Available & Affordable to All Youth
Clubs reach out to kids who cannot afford, or may lack access to, other community programs. Dues are $5.00 per year. We assure that all boys and girls can afford to belong, we do not turn anyone away due to the inability to pay; and we offer payment plans or scholarships to youth who need assistance.
Competence
Clubs expose youth to unique experiences and programs to build their self-esteem and to develop new skills.
Belonging
Clubs offer a safe setting where youth of all backgrounds are accepted and nurtured by professionally trained staff and volunteers, and where peers are taught to respect and value differences.
Influence
Clubs encourage youth to be heard and to influence decisions, developing leadership skills that they will take with them long after their Club experience ends.
Usefulness
Clubs offer and encourage youth to participate in opportunities to help others.
Facts about Membership
|
33% minority
|
10% |
|
less than 7 years old |
| |
21% |
|
7–9 years old
|
| 59% male
|
29% |
|
10–11 years old
|
| 41% female
|
22% |
|
12–13 years old
|
| |
9% |
|
14–15 years old |
| |
9% |
|
16 years and older |