The clubs offer health, social, educational, vocational, self-esteem and character development programs. When a military youth center receives a club charter, Richardson said, Boys and Girls Club of America assigns a field service director, who makes periodic visits to review program and training needs. Each military youth center pays 2 percent of its operating budget for its charter. This fee entitles the center to the same programs and resources whether it's a small center located in Guam or a large facility in Texas, Richardson said. More than 50 programs are currently offered.
Local winners advance to five regional competitions.
In 1994, two Air Force youth were regional winners, Richardson said. The Targeted Outreach program identifies and recruits delinquent youth into ongoing club programs and activities.