OJJDP and Boys and Girls Clubs of America: Public Housing and High-Risk Youth

• NCJ Number: 128412
• Author(s): S Bradford
• Date Published: 1991
• Length: 6 pages
• Corporate Author: Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP)
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Program/Project Evaluation
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Juvenile Justice Bulletin, OJJDP Update on Programs

Annotation

The Boys and Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) provide youth with alternatives to the streets that include activities designed to develop their sense of belonging, competence, usefulness, and influence.

Abstract

More than 1,100 local clubs provide activities for 1.4 million boys and girls nationwide. Typically, club members live in large or medium-sized cities, have three or more siblings, are from minority populations, and have families whose annual income is less than $12,000. Experiences provided by BGCA help youth develop leadership skills and lay the foundation for success in later life. Results indicate that clubs have a positive impact on the lives of young people, especially those from disadvantaged families. Club alumni report that the BGCA experience helped them avoid difficulty with the law and provided a support system against drug abuse. Club activities, such as sports, exercise, and other group activities, provide staff with excellent vehicles for teaching members teamwork, responsibility, and leadership. BGCA's involvement in public housing communities began more than 37 years ago. Clubs that operate cooperatively with local public housing authorities have played a critical role in reducing vandalism, curbing gang violence and drug activity, and giving youth a sense of belonging and purpose. The BGCA's Task Force on Inappropriate Detention was created in 1981 with technical assistance from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. A special Targeted Outreach Case Management System has been developed that tracks youths' progress and participation in club activities designed to prevent juvenile delinquency. The Targeted Outreach Youth Gang Prevention and Intervention Program is a new initiative being built on BGCA's Targeted Outreach Program. Another program, known as SMART Moves, is a community-based program to help adolescents say no to drug use and early sexual activity. Other BGCA initiatives include Reaching At-Risk Youth in Public Housing and a drug demand reduction program.