This program provides annual national recognition for creative, innovative Club programming that enriches the Boys & Girls Club Movement. The Honor Award in each of our five core program areas recognizes Clubs with outstanding, locally developed programs that meet community interests and needs. The Overall Program Excellence award recognizes Clubs for developing a comprehensive program offering across all five core areas and creating a fun, safe and nurturing Club environment. Honor Awards are presented at BGCA's National Conference. Honor Award and Merit Award winners receive cash prizes, and their programs are showcased on BGCA's internal Web site for Club professionals and volunteers, www.bgca.net.

 

The Web-based Youth Development Outcome Measurement Tool Kit helps BGCAs collect and analyze information about whether they are making a significant, positive difference in members' lives. The Tool Kit features user-friendly online youth survey instruments to help assess achievement of BGCA's Youth development Outcomes; guidelines for outcome measurement; instructions for sample selection and survey administration; automated tools for quick scoring and analysis of collected data; and guidance on interpreting and using the results with stakeholders and supporters to enhance Club programming and services. The Tool Kit is available through BGCA's internal website for Club professionals and volunteers, www.bgca.net.

 

This self-assessment process, an annual BGCA membership requirement, helps Clubs evaluate and improve the quality of their programming and deepen their impact on the youth they serve. The Impact Assessment is based on the findings of the Search Institute's study of Boys & Girls Clubs identifying five key elements of positive youth development. The impact assessment reflects current philosophy and research about what makes a difference in youth development and captures the specific best practices that have always made Clubs successful. The tool is available for Clubs through BGCA's internal Web site for Club professionals and volunteers, www.bgca.net, and is designed so that Clubs can enter their results online.