Teen Leadership Programs
Great futures start here.
It is simple to talk about Leadership, but Boys & Girls Clubs of Carroll County takes an active role in creating leaders.
Our dynamic teen programs provide valuable leadership and service experience that equips our teens with the passion to make a difference in the world around them.
Friday Night Teen Nights are a Club favorite. The Club stays open until 10:00 PM and gives Teens a safe place to hang out with friends, make music in the recording studio or play in the open gym!
Leaders in Training & Junior Leaders
Each year, a select group of middle and high school students are chosen to participate in the Leaders in Training (LIT) and Junior Leaders programs, providing hands-on leadership experience and personal growth opportunities. Service hours are awarded for participation.
- Leaders in Training (LIT) – Open to middle school students, this program introduces leadership fundamentals, teamwork, and responsibility while preparing participants for future leadership roles.
- Junior Leaders – Designed for high school students, this program builds on leadership skills through real-world experience, including serving as counselors at BGCCC Summer Camp, mentoring younger members, and exploring career pathways.
Both programs include a 9-week strength and conditioning component, helping participants develop endurance, confidence, and resilience. By stepping outside their comfort zones and tackling challenges, participants build the skills and mindset needed to succeed in leadership roles at the Club and beyond.
Torch Club
Torch Club is a leadership and service program designed just for middle schoolers (ages 10-13), giving them a voice and a chance to make a real impact at the Club and in their community. This small-group program helps members build confidence, develop leadership skills, and work as a team while planning and leading activities in four key areas:
- Service – Give back to the Club and your community through hands-on projects.
- Education – Explore new skills and ideas that help you grow.
- Health & Fitness – Stay active and learn about healthy lifestyles.
- Social Recreation – Have fun while making new friends and building teamwork skills.
Torch Club members elect officers, plan events, and take on responsibilities that help them grow as leaders. If you’re ready to step up, make a difference, and be a champion for your Club and community, Torch Club is the place to start!
Keystone Club:
High School Leadership in Action
Keystone Club is a teen-led leadership and service group designed to empower high school students to make a difference in their Club and community. Keystone gives teens a platform to develop leadership skills, advocate for issues they care about, and engage in meaningful service projects while preparing for college and careers.
As a Keystone member, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Plan and lead service projects that create real impact
- Organize teen nights and events for Club members
- Develop leadership and teamwork skills
- Advocate for youth voices and shape Club programs
- Explore career and college pathways through mentorship and networking
- Attend the National Keystone Conference, where teens from across the country come together to develop leadership skills, share ideas, and take action on important issues.
Keystone Club is more than a program—it’s a chance to be a champion for change while building friendships and gaining experience that will prepare you for the future.
Youth of the Year
Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can achieve, recognizing young leaders who advocate for youth, inspire change, and embody leadership, service, academic excellence, and healthy lifestyles. More than an award, it’s a movement that empowers Club members to use their voices to make a difference.
The journey begins at the local level, with winners advancing to state, regional, and national competitions. The National Youth of the Year serves as a spokesperson for millions of young people, advocating for policies that support youth success. Our Club has produced multiple Maryland Youth of the Year winners, who have championed mentorship and policy change, even meeting with the Governor to advocate for young people.
Youth of the Year isn’t just about recognition – it’s about developing the next generation of leaders.
Testimonials
Boys & Girls Clubs of Carroll County | 410-386-0135 | info@bgccarrollcounty.org | 71 E. Main Street, Westminster, MD 21157 | Member of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America