SMART Moves

This nationally acclaimed comprehensive prevention program helps young people resist alcohol, tobacco and other drug use, as well as premature sexual activity. Based on proven techniques, the program uses a team approach involving Club staff, peer leaders, parents and community representatives. More than simply emphasizing a "Say No" message, the program teaches young people ages 6-15 how to say no by involving them in discussion and role-playing, practicing resistance and refusal skills, developing assertiveness, strengthening decision-making skills and analyzing media and peer influence. The ultimate goal: to promote abstinence from substance abuse and adolescent sexual involvement through the practice or responsible behavior.

SMART Girls

As an outgrowth of the popular and effective SMART Moves program, SMART Girls is a health, fitness, prevention/education and self-esteem enhancement program for girls ages 10-15. From interactive role playing to more tailored mentoring, girls are given the opportunity to explore personal and societal values as they build skills for eating right, staying fit, getting good health care and developing positive relationships.

Street Smart builds awareness and resistance skills in our youth ages 11-13 helping them develop the confidence and knowledge the need to make intelligent choices. Street SMART counteracts the negative lures of gangs, violence and "street" influences on youth. It teaches youth how gangs work, how to recognize and resolve conflicts peacefully and how to become positive peer helpers. Participants share what they have learned by organizing community events that promote the positive messages of Street SMART.

NetSmartz

NetSmartz is a national computer safety and awareness program that is taught weekly at each branch. NetSmartz focuses on using fun, innovative and age-appropriate terminology to teach youth how to safely and effectively surf the web while avoiding possibly dangerous situations that could present themselves while online. NetSmartz is a national program supported by the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and the National Center for Missing or Exploited Children.

Password to Manhood

For male Club members ages 11-14, Passport to Manhood promotes responsibility and reinforces positive behavior. It consists of 14 small-group sessions, each of which concentrates on a specific aspect of manhood. Each participant is issued his own "Passport" to emphasize the idea that he is on a journey to maturation and personal growth.

Kids Cafe is a local program to combat child hunger and promote healthy eating habits. Children are fed a hot, cooked meal each day in corroboration between the North Texas Food Bank, the BGCCC and Capital One. Kids Cafe's are currently feeding children in our Plano and McKinney branches with certified food handlers and commercial kitchens. During our summer program kids are fed two meals a day due to extended hours.