From their beginnings in New England during the mid-1800's the mission of Boys and Girls Clubs has been the same; to provide a safe place for young people to spend their free time.  Over the years, many things have changed, but commitment to youth has remained a constant and guiding principle of all Boys and Girls Clubs.

        Various independent organizations were formed under different names, but in 1876, the words "Boys Clubs" were used in the name of one of the organizations --The Boys Club of New York.  Today "Boys Clubs" have come to mean a national organization whose member clubs serve youngsters in towns and cities throughout the United States.

        In 1906, some 50 Boys Clubs banded together to establish a national organization which today is known as Boys and Girls Clubs of America.

        On August 6, 1956, President Eisenhower signed the most important document in the history of the national organization--Public Law 988 of the 84th Congress of the United States, granting a Congressional Charter to Boys Clubs of America.

        In 1990, the National Organization officially became the Boys and Girls Clubs of America.

        The movement grew and spread across the country from these early beginnings.  Today there are over 1,600 Boys and Girls Clubs with membership of more than 2,000,000 boys and girls.  These clubs have buildings and other assets valued at over 200 million dollars.  Each Boys and Girls Club Corporation is an autonomous organization.  It is managed by a local board of public spirited citizens and is supported by United Way or contributions made directly to the Boys and Girls Club.

        There are Boys and Girls Clubs in all areas--cities large and small serving all youngsters on an equal basis. The youth come from all economic and social circumstances and Boys and Girls Clubs are designed to serve all wishing to belong.

        The national organization strives to assist member clubs to achieve their goals through many different services including training, program development, personnel development, building, public information and field service.

        Therefore, to accomplish the mission both nationally and locally, the Boys and Girls Club of Conway must provide services based on principles of behavioral guidance which will achieve the health, social, educational, vocational, character, and leadership development of our membership.

                                                                        Source:
                                                                          Nabholz Unit
                                                                          Staff Handbook