Study Shows Clubs Work
Boys & Girls Clubs of America has been changing young lives since 1860 when the first Club was organized. An independent study of Club alumni confirms what Club professionals and alumni have known all along. Clubs work.

Results of this study indisputably prove that the Club experience gives children advantages that last a lifetime. Clubs throughout America - and affiliates overseas - are providing the guidance and care needed to turn young lives around. In fact, more than half of Club alumni recently surveyed say the Club saved their lives.

An independent survey of alumni, conducted by Louis Harris & Associates, verifies that Boys & Girls Clubs widely benefit young people through effective programs that foster self-confidence, a sense of belonging and hope for the future. Additionally, communities in need gain much from the presence of Clubs. Alumni from economically and socially disadvantaged backgrounds strongly emphasize the positive impact of Clubs.

Boys & Girls Clubs are located in all 50 states, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia and on military bases throughout the world. More than 3,000 Clubs serve some 3.3 million young people, providing opportunities that impact lives and create the productive citizens and leaders of tomorrow.

Boys & Girls Clubs Critical to Success
This study determined that "alumni view their experiences with Clubs as highly positive, critical to their successes, and, for many, essential to their survival." The survey also determined that Clubs had a profound impact on many who report their lives had been saved. Some 30% of alumni from "tough" neighborhoods and 38% of African-American alumni polled strongly agree.

Participating in the Club really saved my life:

• 30% somewhat agree
• 22% strongly agree

	Tutoring/help with schoolwork		73%
	Career development		71%
	Organized/team sports		70%
	Swimming lessons		70%
	Recreation / exercise / game room		69%
	Outings / trips / cultural activities		66%
	Counseling or mentoring		64%
	Camping		62%
	Social activities		60%
	Technology		60%
	Community service		58%
	Health programs		55%
	Arts & crafts / wood shop		49%

For a majority, the Club was not only one of the best things available - it was often the only place to go:

The Club was one of the best things available in my community:

• 26% somewhat agree
• 69% strongly agree

• 30% somewhat agree
• 35% strongly agree

	Knowing right from wrong		80%
	Self-confidence		79%
	Self-esteem as a child or adolescent		78%
	Learning good leadership skills		72%
	Ability to avoid difficulty with the law		70%
	Having someone to talk to		69%
	Goals and aspirations		64%
	Work life and later career		57%
	Success in high school		56%

You're in good company.
Take a moment to review who moved from the Club to notable positions within their fields.