Who We Are

The Boys & Girls Club of Bloomington-Normal is a youth empowerment organization that provides both summer and after-school programming and activities to those who need us most. The programs are rooted in our pillars of Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles and Good Character and Citizenship to serve the emotional, cultural, and social needs of youth ages 5-18. The Club plays a vital role in the lives of our children by providing a safe environment where they can learn, play, and grow.

Our Mission

Our mission is to empower all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. Our strategic focus is to enhance the Club’s success by continuing to set the standard of excellence with our exemplary programming. Community partnerships have been an integral piece in expanding our efforts in this area. Our Board, our leadership team and our staff are committed to providing a high-quality Club experience focusing on our core program areas: Education & STEM, Arts & Culture, Health & Wellness, Leadership & Service, Career Exploration & Development, Sports & Recreation. Our entire team are leading advocates for our child and youth development practices. We are sought out for service and support by fellow community leaders in our aggregate effort to build a stronger community for everyone.

I CARE Values

To ensure that kids, families and staff are always our highest priorities, we commit to these values:

  • Integrity: We are authentic, honest, and transparent; we strive to do the right thing every day, every time.
  • Collaboration: We work effectively within and across teams, with engaged and empowered people to accomplish our goals; we celebrate success together.
  • Accountability: We do what we say and hold each other to the highest standards; we are impeccable stewards of all our resources.
  • Respect: We honor diversity and inclusion, treat others with respect, and express gratitude; we embrace alternative ways of thinking.
  • Excellence: We excel in service delivery, rigorously measure impact, and work to continuously improve ourselves and our organization; we are innovative.

What We Do

Since January 1992, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bloomington-Normal has been a recognized 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in Bloomington, Illinois. The Club’s original location was in the basement of the John Kane Homes Community Center. By 1993 the Club had outgrown that space and moved to its current location, a part of the Lawrence Irvin Neighborhood Center (LINC.) We currently operate after-school and summer enrichment programs in four locations, serving the academic, emotional, cultural, and social needs of youth ages 5-18. Our Club gives kids opportunities to succeed through programs that impact their lives. We currently provide quality programs and services for underserved children, as well as introduce their families to other resources in our community. Our programs include homework help and tutoring, STEM activities focusing on the future of technology, introduction to the arts, leadership, service learning, as well as career exploration and development. Our vision is where every member has the possibility for a GREAT FUTURE; we want our Club members to be successful in school, graduate with a plan for the future, engage in healthy behaviors to become fit for life, and develop strong character, all of which will empower them to become productive, caring, responsible citizens.

Five Keys of Youth Development

  • Create a safe, positive environment
  • Generate fun and foster a sense of belonging
  • Encourage supportive relationships with peers and adults
  • Provide opportunities and set expectations
  • Offer recognition