SPECIALIZED PROGRAMS

Through ClubTech, and thanks to a more than $100 million donation from Microsoft, B&GCA is providing Clubs with the tools to make Club members and staff effective technology users. Every Club will receive a comprehensive package of the latest Microsoft products – a combined $88 million software gift. With another $12.3 million in cash, B&GCA is developing technology programs that will give members basic computer skills; introduce them to digital movie making, music making, photography, graphic design and Web development; and guide staff in using technology to enhance all program offerings. ClubTech also includes extensive technology training opportunities for Club staff at all professional levels.

These initiatives emphasize community mobilization and family involvement as strategies Clubs can use to better serve more young people and broaden the impact of all Club programs.

Gang Prevention/Intervention Through Targeted Outreach
In response to the number of youth gangs growing in cities and expanding to suburban and rural communities, B&GCA has developed a special gang prevention and intervention initiative targeting youth ages 6-18. Through referrals from schools, courts, law enforcement and community youth service agencies, the tested and proven Targeted Outreach program identifies and recruits delinquent youth, or those "at risk" of delinquency, into ongoing Club programs and activities. This initiative is sponsored by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, U.S. Department of Justice.

Family Support
Family support activities, programs and events are designed to benefit Club members by promoting family stability, cohesion and connection. Examples include family fun nights, parenting classes, referral services, job skills training programs and single-parent support groups. This program is funded by The Annie E. Casey Foundation.