Character and Leadership Development

Programs in this core area empower youth to support and influence their Club and community, sustain meaningful relationships with others, develop a positive self-image and good character, participate in the democratic process, and respect their own and others’ cultural identities.

Youth of the Year

This program promotes and celebrates service to Club, community and family; academic performance; moral character; life goals; and poise and public speaking ability. The Youth of the Year program is most effective when used as a year-round tool for fostering young people’s character, personal growth and leadership qualities. Clubs recognize members ages 14-18 who were Youths of the Month and select a Youth of the Year, who then participates in a state competition. State winners participate in a regional competition, and five regional winners each receive a $5,000 scholarship and compete on the national level. The National Youth of the Year receives an additional $10,000 scholarship and is installed by the President of the United States.

TEENSupreme Keystone Clubs

Keystone Clubs are chartered leadership and service clubs for youth ages 14-18. Keystoners elect officers and implement activities in six areas: service to Club and community, character and leadership development, education and career exploration, unity, free enterprise and social recreation.

Torch Clubs

Torch Clubs are chartered small-group leadership and service clubs for boys and girls ages 11-13. A Torch Club is a powerful vehicle through which Club staff can help meet the special character development needs of younger adolescents as a critical stage in their development. Torch Club members learn to elect officers and work together to implement activities in four areas: service to Club and community; education, health and fitness and social recreation.

Goals For Growth

Goals For Growth teaches Club members ages 8-12 skills for setting and achieving goals, helps them identify their own strengths and enhances their self-esteem by reinforcing their progress and recognizing their success in realizing their goals. Members set goals in six areas; Club involvement; discovery of new knowledge; skills or pastimes; service to others; school improvement; personal improvement and career awareness.

T3: Teen Tech Teams

Teen Tech Teams are small-group leadership clubs that promote technology volunteerism, education and career exploration. Members ages 10 and up explore technology-related careers and issues, increase technology skills, and assist staff and other members with technology in the Club. After learning to build a computer of their own and completing technology service hours within the Club, members take their computer home for personal use.