Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis (BGCM) is a prominent youth development organization dedicated to empowering young people, particularly those in need, to realize their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens.

Established in April 1962, BGCM has grown from a single club serving 162 members to 19 clubs, a technical training center, and a summer residence camp. These collectively serve over 8,000 youth annually.

Operations and Programs

Operating primarily in Memphis, Tennessee, BGCM provides after-school care for children aged 6 to 18, Monday through Friday from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The organization offers programs in six core areas:

• Education and Leadership: Programs designed to foster academic success and develop leadership skills.
• Character Development: Initiatives that promote good character and citizenship.
• Healthy Life Choices: Activities encouraging physical and emotional well-being.
• Career Awareness: Opportunities to explore various career paths.
• Athletics: Sports programs that promote teamwork and physical fitness.
• The Arts: Creative programs that nurture artistic talents.

Additionally, BGCM offers specialized programs such as Karate, ballet, robotics, foreign languages, cultural studies, soccer, and tennis. These cater to a wide range of interests and talents.

Technical Training Center

A notable initiative is the Juice Plus+ Technical Training Center, which provides job readiness programs for students aged 16 to 24.

This center offers career tracks in logistics, automotive, culinary arts, welding, and IT. It equips students with essential skills for the workforce.

The center also provides training in customer service, money management, computer skills, and personal goal setting, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their careers.

Club Locations

BGCM operates 19 traditional clubs and one technical training center across Memphis. These are strategically located in areas with high concentrations of at-risk youth.

• Bernal E. Smith Sr. Club
• John Dustin Buckman Club
• Ira Samelson Jr. Club
• Sycamore View Club
• Porter Goodwill Club
• Oakhaven Club
• Juice Plus+ Technical Training Center
• Promise Academy - Spring Hill Club
• Camp Phoenix
• Promise Academy - Hollywood Club
• Booker T. Washington Middle School Club
• Craigmont High School Club
• Hamilton High School Club
• Manassas High School Club
• Melrose High School Club
• Ridgeway High School Club
• Raleigh Egypt High School Club
• Sheffield High School Club
• Trezevant High School Club
• Westwood High School Club
• Wooddale High School Club

These clubs are open Monday through Friday from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., providing a safe and supportive environment for youth during critical after-school hours.

Diversity and Community Impact

BGCM serves a diverse community, with 85% of its members coming from single-parent families and 91% identifying as African American.

The organization is committed to inclusivity and offers financial assistance to families that meet income and eligibility requirements.

Through its comprehensive programs and dedicated staff, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis continues to make a significant impact on the lives of young people, helping them achieve academic success, develop good character, and prepare for a healthy and productive future.

Location

• Memphis, TN, US
• Memphis, TN, USA