ADVOCATING FOR YOUTH
Boys & Girls Clubs in Colorado Legislative Priorities
Boys & Girls Clubs statewide are committed to the betterment and well-being of Colorado's next generation of leaders and citizens. We work tirelessly with state policymakers to ensure they understand the impact and importance of Boys & Girls Clubs in Colorado as financial and legislative support is critical in ensuring that our services stay robust and meet the needs of families across Colorado.
Priority #1
Academic Support and Enrichment
According to the Nation's 2022 Report Card, Colorado's 4th and 8th grade students saw significant decreases in both reading and math scores, falling lower than any scores over the past five years. Educational experts continue to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on student achievement and growth. Statistics and studies clearly indicate that students of lower socioeconomic status and minorities have faired the hardest.
Club Solution: Boys & Girls Clubs in Colorado provide 1,200 hours, on average, of youth development through out-of-school programming. That is more hours than a student spends in school each year in most districts. At the Club, this critical time is spent on programs and activities that support academic skill building by practicing concepts learned in school, providing tutoring and content support, and engaging in activities that foster academic curiosity. Each year Clubs offer over 200 dedicated hours of academic programming with some Clubs strategically partnering with school districts for targeted and coordinated student impact.
Priority #2
Emotional and Mental Health Support
In 2021, the Colorado Children's Hospital declared youth mental health a state of emergency. Currently, suicide is the leading cause of death for young people in Colorado. While a concern prior to the pandemic, we know that the impact of COVID-19 only exacerbated this issue. 2022 Healthy Kids Colorado Survey results demonstrate a litany of indicators around the state of youth’s perceived mental wellbeing with nearly 40% of youth responders saying that they experienced frequent times of hopelessness throughout the year.
Club Solution: Over the past decade, Boys & Girls Clubs have put strategic emphasis on embedding social/emotional and mental health resources into the Club environment. First, the Club environment exists to increase protective factors, making youth feel valued and that they belong. Second, most Club professionals are trained in trauma-informed care, meaning that they are especially equipped to support youth coming from difficult circumstances. Finally, many Clubs have dedicated professionals on staff such as counselors and behavior specialists to work directly with youth and families who need additional support at no extra cost therefore, eliminating cost and transportation barriers.
Priority #3
Workforce Development
The Colorado Talent Pipeline Report calls to attention widening skill and equity gaps that exist across many industries. These gaps can be particularly difficult to close for those entering the workforce that come from disadvantaged circumstances. Statistics show young people from low-income and minority backgrounds face significant barriers to accessing employment opportunities, with higher rates of unemployment and lower wages compared to their more privileged peers. Access to workforce development and career opportunities can help end generational poverty and increase the quality of life for all.
Club Solution: Workforce development programming is a cornerstone of Boys & Girls Club's “tween” and teen programming. By providing access to career-readiness programs, job training, and mentorship opportunities, Boys & Girls Clubs can help young people develop the skills and qualifications they need to succeed in the modern workforce. Additionally, the Club’s safe and nurturing environment can also provide young people with a supportive space to develop the soft skills, such as communication and teamwork, that are essential for success in any career.
Priority #4
Capacity Building
Boys & Girls Clubs in Colorado are comprehensive place-based services, staffed with youth development professionals. As such, Clubs needs the resources necessary to ensure that their environments and staff are of the highest caliber. Because Boys & Girls Clubs offer such an affordable program for families the true cost of providing these services is only achievable through fundraising efforts. In 2021 state-wide operational costs were more than $32 million, yet Club membership fees make up less than 1% of that amount. To maintain current service levels, enhance programmatic opportunities and expand opportunities for growth, Boys & Girls Clubs in Colorado must secure significant investments.
Club Impact: A study conducted by Boys & Girls Clubs of America found that Club members who attend the Club at least twice a week saw an increase in academic engagement and growth when compared to their peers who did not attend the Club. Further, the study found that these members are less likely to engage in risky behaviors and more likely to graduate high school on time with a plan for the future.