Core Programs

At Boys & Girls Clubs of the Mississippi Delta, we believe every child has unique gifts waiting to be unlocked. Our local Clubs are encouraged to develop programs that best meet the needs of their communities – and through our charter with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, we also offer tested, proven, and nationally recognized programs that align with the developmental needs of all young people.

From science and leadership to sports and the arts,
here’s how we’re building great futures across the Mississippi Delta.

**DIY STEM**

**Igniting Curiosity Through Hands-On Science**
Our DIY STEM program brings science to life, encouraging members to explore, experiment, and problem-solve. Youth have built spinning mirrors (Praxinoscopes) to learn about animation and constructed towers to understand engineering principles like stability and balance.
Members at the **Lexington Club** have taken the lead – finding DIY STEM activities for their teen group and leading round‑table discussions. We’re seeing a new generation of young scientists emerge, including **Ty’Liyah G.**, a fifth‑grader who now curates STEM projects for her peers.
These engaging, hands-on projects make complex concepts accessible and fun, fostering a love for science and innovation in a collaborative environment.

**Triple Play: Healthy Habits**

**Building Strong Minds and Bodies**
Triple Play empowers our members to make healthy choices for life. Through interactive sessions, kids learn about nutrition by creating their own healthy snacks, like trail mix. Combined with daily physical activities and team-building exercises, this program teaches the importance of a balanced lifestyle.
Our **Greenwood Club** launched a **garden‑based nutrition program** thanks to a Popeyes Foundation Food Love Grant. Members learned soil science, composting, and how to harvest seasonal crops – then worked with a local chef to turn their harvest into healthy meals. Sixteen members earned their **Healthy Habits Badge**, and we now have a permanent “Healthy Station” at the Club.

**Arts & Crafts**

**Unleashing Creativity and Entrepreneurial Spirit**
Our Arts & Crafts program is more than just making art – it’s about building skills and confidence. From collaborative projects like creating homecoming parade banners to specialized initiatives like the charm bracelet project, members express their creativity while learning the fundamentals of entrepreneurship.
**Greenwood Club** members painted Easter eggs in a special class led by Yolande van Heerden. In **Cleveland**, the **Creative1's of Bolivar County** donated dozens of eggs and painted alongside our kids. Art is now a regular part of our weekly schedule at every unit, giving members a vital outlet for self-expression.

**Power Hour: Academic Success**

**Achieving Academic Excellence Every Day**
Power Hour provides a dedicated time and place for members to complete their homework and develop core academic skills. We’ve seen remarkable progress – young readers significantly improving their skills through consistent effort and a positive attitude.
**J.J. Lance from Greenwood Utilities** volunteers with us every week during Power Hour, helping kids stay on track with homework and building their confidence in the classroom. Community volunteers like J.J. make Power Hour one of the most impactful parts of our day.
With mentorship and a supportive environment, we help youth build a strong foundation for academic success and a lifelong love of learning.

**Career & Leadership**

**Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders Today**
Through our Career & Leadership initiatives, teens gain real-world experience and explore their futures. Members participate in hands-on career exploration and workforce readiness programs, opening doors to internships and apprenticeships.
Our **Passport2Manhood** program at the **Cleveland Club** taught young men how to change oil and charge a vehicle battery – practical skills for self‑sufficiency. Meanwhile, our **SMART Girls Ambassadors** in **Lexington** collected **150 Easter baskets** for families in need, learning that leadership means giving back.
We prepare our members to be the future leaders our communities need – providing the tools and opportunities for them to grow, lead, and succeed.

**Athletics & Recreation**

**Teaching Teamwork and Discipline On and Off the Court**
Our athletic programs build more than just physical skills. Through team sports, relay races, and flag football, members learn the value of teamwork, sportsmanship, and healthy competition.
**Fresh this year:**
**Lexington Club** basketball players traveled to **Huntsville, AL** for a weekend tournament – they fell short in the finals but learned perseverance and came home proud.
**Tutwiler** launched after‑school basketball with coaches Bernard Berryhill and Khristopher Smith (only 25 spots – they filled up fast!).
Thanks to a **USTA Innovation Grant**, tennis is now coming to our Clubs in Clarksdale, Greenwood, Grenada, and Cleveland. Coach training is complete, and kids will hit the courts starting **April 24**.
Whether it’s basketball, tennis, or just running relays in the gym, we’re keeping kids active and engaged.

More National Programs We Offer

Triple Play

A comprehensive health & wellness program focused on physical activity, nutrition, and healthy relationships (ages 6–18).
Career Launch

Prepares teens ages 13–18 for the world of work – career exploration, job shadowing, and resume building.
Summer Brain Gain

One‑week themed modules aligned with common core standards – plus Summer Brain Gain: Read! for literacy.
Power Hour

Strategies and resources to create engaging homework help and tutoring programs.
Youth of the Year

BGCA’s premier recognition program, fostering a new generation of leaders.
SMART Girls

A small‑group health, fitness, prevention, and self‑esteem program for girls ages 8–18.
Passport2Manhood

A rites‑of‑passage program for boys ages 8–17, covering decision‑making, conflict resolution, and life skills.