Boys & Girls Club of Lansing

In an age of difficult challenges for youth and families, the work of the Boys & Girls Club of Lansing has enabled us to become one of the major stabilizing influences on the youth of Lansing. The Boys & Girls Club of Lansing is widely recognized as the premier agency serving youth from disadvantaged circumstances. Relying on the dedication of our personnel-both paid and volunteer-and the efficient use of facilities, the Boys & Girls Club can provide quality programs for youth between the ages of 7-17. An important factor in the success of the Boys & Girls Club of Lansing is its recognition that many youth fail because they do not have a sense of self-esteem. Thus, the Boys & Girls Club of Lansing employs a Youth Development Strategy. Club programs and services promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling:

A Sense of Competence

The feeling there is something boys and girls can do and do well

A Sense of Usefulness

The opportunity to do something of value for other people

A Sense of Belonging

A setting where young people know they "fit" and are accepted.

A Sense of Power or Influence

A chance to be heard and to influence decisions.

When this strategy is fully implemented, self-esteem is enhanced and an environment is created which helps girls and boys achieve their full potential.