Youth Programs provides a wide variety of services and activities for youth ages 5-18 including before and after school programs, summer vacation and school holiday camps, as well as youth transition and support services. There are opportunities for education, career, character and leadership development through the Torch and Keystone Clubs. Youth will also learn health and life skills and have the option to participate in a variety of recreational programs. 

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Programming for Positive Youth Development

Empowering youth to find their voice and their passion to make a difference in their community and the world through opportunities for planning, decision-making, advocacy while becoming responsible, caring citizens and acquiring skills to participate in the democratic process. ​

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The Arts

Fostering creativity and providing outlets for self-expression. From daily programs to instructional classes and summer camps, youth are encouraged to explore the arts. National Competitions in Fine Arts and Photography showcase the talent of our youth.

Sports and Recreation

Programs to develop physical fitness, reduce stress, and promote the positive use of leisure time, appreciation for the environment, and interpersonal skills.

 

Health and Wellness

Building young people’s capacity to engage in positive behaviors that nurture well-being, inspire the pursuit of personal goals, and grow into self-sufficient adults. 

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Education

Activities designed to inspire a love of learning, support academic skills, and ensure that all youth graduate from high school on time, ready for a post-secondary path and skills for a 21st-century career.

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Torch Club

Torch Club provides opportunities for youth ages 9-13 to have a positive impact on their communities through small group, peer-driven leadership and service clubs. Members will strengthen both their critical thinking and leadership skills. Weekly meetings are held on Tuesdays, 3:30pm-4:15pm.

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Teen Programs

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Keystone Club

Offered through our BGCA partnership, Keystone is the most dynamic teen program, building valuable leadership and service experience as teens plan and implement programs in four areas: academic success, career exploration, community service, and teen outreach. The national conference is one of the highlights of the Keystone Year! There are four different charter levels: Basic, Silver, Gold, and Legacy. Within those charters are different requirements set in place in order to fulfill each level. Click here for a full list of charter levels and requirements. Weekly meetings are held on Fridays, 6pm-7pm.

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Military Youth of the Year 

A premier scholarship and recognition program for teens ages 14-18 offered in partnership with Boys and Girls Clubs of America.  The program honors and celebrates our most inspiring teens and their incredible journeys, showcasing outstanding leadership, service, academic excellence, and dedication to living a healthy lifestyle.

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Youth Sponsorship Program

This program supports youth that are new arrivals to Hanscom Air Force Base by connecting them with the local community so they have a smoother transition. Sponsors will escort the new arrivals and introduce them to others within their age/grade level. They will also provide them with a tour of the Youth Center and explain all of their offerings.

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Contact the Youth Center if you would like to participate in this program as a newcomer or if you currently live on Hanscom you may sign up to be a sponsor.

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Congressional Award

The United States Congress’ award for young Americans ages 14-24.

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Earn Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medals or Certificates for the following:

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• Public Service 

• Personal Development 

• Physical Fitness 

• Expedition/Exploration

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This is a non-competitive ongoing award program with no minimum grade point average requirements. It accommodates young people with special needs or disabilities who are willing to take the challenge. This is not an award for past accomplishments. Instead, you are honored for setting goals, creating an action plan, and meeting the challenge.

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Contact the Youth Center to learn more.

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Have talents or skills to share?

We're looking for dance, drum/music, and gymnastics instructors to provide classes for children. Interested in becoming an instructor? Call us.