Education & Career Development
BEKB isn’t just a mindset. It’s a commitment that helps every member graduate on time and be ready for post-secondary education. Here are all the ways we’re making that happen.
Schools Out NYC (SONYC) is a comprehensive after
school program funded by the NYC DYCD for 6th-8th
graders. SONYC offers enrichment programming that
centers on educational enrichment, social-emotional
growth, and critical thinking.
Ultimately the SONYC
program aims to stimulate curiosity, nurture talents,
broaden horizons, build resilience and encourage
youth to visualize brighter futures.
Book Club
The Book Club Program invites members to explore the world of literature and foster a love for reading. Through engaging discussions and interactive activities, participants dive into a variety of genres, from classic novels to contemporary works.
The program encourages critical thinking, improves literacy skills, and provides a platform for members to share their perspectives and insights. Whether reading alone or in a group, members are guided to deepen their understanding of the material and develop a lifelong appreciation for books.
Diplomas2Degrees
Diplomas2Degrees promotes the importance of higher education.
The diplomas2Degrees (d2D) Program is dedicated to guiding Club members on their journey from high school graduation to post-secondary success. This college readiness program helps teens set and achieve both short- and long-term goals, providing them with crucial experiences such as college tours to familiarize them with higher education.
d2D supports students in navigating the complexities of financial aid and fosters meaningful relationships with mentors who offer guidance and encouragement throughout their college journey. With a focus on preparing for both education and career, d2D equips young people with the tools and confidence they need to thrive.
College Readiness for Teens
College Readiness for Teens is a comprehensive, year-round program designed to help high school students graduate on time and prepare for their future.
Whether pursuing college, military service, or trade school, students receive personalized guidance and resources to set and achieve their educational goals. The program also offers workshops and support for parents, recognizing that many of our graduates are the first in their families to pursue post-secondary education.
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Our College Readiness program supports:
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Academic Advising
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Financial Aid
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College Admissions
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Scholarship Opportunities
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Career Exploration
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Parent Engagement
DIY Stem
DIY STEM is an engaging, hands-on curriculum designed to connect youth aged 9 to 12 with everyday science concepts. Focusing on the practical application of scientific theories, DIY STEM offers five interactive modules: Energy and Electricity, Engineering Design, Food Chemistry, and Science of Sports: Football.
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This program provides young people with limited access to STEM experiences the opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering, and math through fun, practical activities. By nurturing curiosity during these formative tween years, DIY STEM helps build a foundation for success in these critical fields.
Power Hour
Power Hour: Making Minutes Count is a homework-help program that supports youth ages 6-18 in achieving academic success. By offering tutoring, homework assistance, and high-yield learning activities, the program encourages members to become self-directed learners.
Available after school, Power Hour is led by dedicated professionals and volunteers who help youth complete their assignments in a quiet, focused environment. Once homework is finished, participants can engage in additional educational activities that further develop their skills. This program provides a valuable opportunity for kids and teens to receive academic support and boost their confidence.
Money Matters
Money Matters: Make It Count equips teens with essential financial skills that impact their future.
For nearly 20 years, this program has paired youth with mentors to teach goal-setting, budgeting, saving, and investing. Through staff-led sessions and interactive digital tools, teens develop practical financial management skills.
Participants who complete Money Matters demonstrate improved financial habits, including better saving and budgeting practices, paving the way for lifelong financial stability and workplace readiness.
Scholars Program
The application deadline for the 2024-2025 academic year was Monday, May 1st, 2024 at 6pm.
The Kips Bay Scholars Program (KBSP) offers financial assistance to Club members and alumni attending tuition-based schools, supporting their educational and personal growth.
Unlike traditional scholarship programs focused on college students, KBSP aids learners of all ages and grade levels.
From private middle schools to public universities and specialized institutions like the American Institute of Music and Dance, KBSP helps overcome financial barriers and fuels the pursuit of passion and education.
We're proud to support the ongoing success of Kips Bay youth and alumni.
UPS Road Code
UPS Road Code is a FREE national program that educates teens on safe driving techniques using the same rigorous training provided to UPS drivers, who are among the safest in the world.
Since 2009, The UPS Foundation has partnered with Boys & Girls Clubs of America to offer this program. Approximately 150 UPS employees volunteer as instructors to teach teens critical safety principles, from basic driving instructions to the dangers of distracted driving.
The program includes a state-of-the-art virtual driving simulation, using VR headsets to challenge teens' knowledge and skills in various driving environments.
To see if UPS Road Code is available at a local Boys & Girls Club near you, contact upsroadcode@bgca.org.
Digital Literacy
Digital Literacy Essentials equips youth ages 8-15 with essential technology skills like online safety, typing, web searching, media collaboration, and gaming.
In today’s digital world, these skills are crucial for connecting with others, learning online, and preparing for future opportunities.
Through engaging projects, Digital Literacy Essentials guides youth in exploring digital safety, privacy, and presence. Delivered via MyFuture, it allows participants to build a digital portfolio, upload projects, and earn stars and badges.
The program is also adapted for Native Youth, with culturally relevant digital programming available at NAC Clubs.