OJP is a federal mentoring program in which provides three forms of mentoring. Traditional one-
to-one mentoring, group mentoring, and peer mentoring. We encourage youth to sign up and
engage in OJP so they can understand the impact of conversations and activities that pertain to
their everyday lives. Therefore with our youth being at risk for delinquent behavior by their
neighborhoods, and social economic outcomes. Mentors are caring individuals who, along with
parents or guardians, guide young people with emotional support, counsel, friendship,
reinforcement and a constructive example in a structured and trusting relationship. A study
published by Child Trends in 2002 reported that youth who have mentors experienced fewer
unexcused absences from school, were less likely to abuse drugs and also demonstrated more
positive attitudes, compared to youth who don’t have this positive role model, and are more
likely to engage in delinquent behavior. Data shows that mentored youth have greater confidence
in their schoolwork and improved academic performance.

Passport to Manhood promotes and teaches responsibility in Club boys ages 8-17. Passport to Manhood consists of 14 sessions, each of which concentrates on a specific aspect of manhood through highly interactive activities. Each Club participant receives his own “passport” to underscore the notion that he is on a personal journey of maturation and growth. Passport to Manhood represents a targeted effort to engage young men in discussions activities that reinforce positive behavior. Passport to Manhood is an excellent complement to SMART Girls.

SMART Girls is a small-group health, fitness, prevention/education and self-esteem enhancement program designed to meet the developmental needs of girls in three age groups. Through dynamic sessions, highly participatory activities, field trips and mentoring opportunities with adult women, Club girls explore their own and societal attitudes and values as they build skills for eating right, staying physically fit, getting good health care and developing positive relationships with peers and adults.

Torch Clubs are chartered​ small-group leadership and service clubs for boys and girls ages 11-13. A Torch Club is a powerful vehicle through which Club staff can help meet the special character development needs of younger adolescents at a critical stage in their development. Torch Club members learn to elect officers and work together to implement activities in four areas: service to Club and community, education, health and fitness and social recreation. The Torch Club Awards are presented annually to Torch Clubs with outstanding programs and activities in the four areas. Each year, Torch Club members from all over the country take part in a service-learning experience through the National Torch Club Project.

Since 1947, Youth of the Year has been Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premier recognition program, celebrating the extraordinary achievements of Club members. Each year, one exceptional young person from a Boys & Girls Club rises to the role of National Youth of the Year. The National Youth of the Year serves as both an exemplary ambassador for Boys & Girls Club youth and as a strong voice for all of our nation’s young people.

Keystone is the Boys & Girls Club Movement’s most dynamic teen program. It affords teens an opportunity to gain valuable leadership and service experience. They conduct activities in three areas: academic success, career exploration and community service. Aaron’s Inc. sponsors the Keystone Club program as part of a multi-year teen initiative; a strategic partnership between Aaron’s Inc. and BGCA provides Clubs with the tools and resources to create a positive place for teens as well as for kids.