Helping youth become responsible caring citizens and acquire skills for participating in the democratic process is the main thrust of these programs. They also develop leadership skills and provide opportunities for planning, decision-making, contributing to Club and community, and celebrating our national heritage.

Project Learn reinforces and enhances the skills and knowledge young people learn at school through "high-yield" learning activities at the Club and in the home. Based on Dr. Reginald Clark's research that shows fun, but academically beneficial activities increase academic performance, these activities include leisure reading, writing activities, homework help and games like Scrabble® which develop young people's cognitive skills. Project Learn emphasizes collaborations between Club staff, parents and school personnel. Formally evaluated by Columbia University, Project Learn has been proven to boost the academic performance of Club members.

The SMART Moves (Skills Mastery and Resistance Training) prevention/education program addresses the problems of drug and alcohol use and premature sexual activity. Based on proven techniques, the program uses a team approach involving Club staff, peer leaders, parents and community representatives. More than simply emphasizing a "Say No" message, the program teaches young people ages 6-15 how to say no by involving them in discussion and role-playing, practicing resistance and refusal skills, developing assertiveness, strengthening decision-making skills and analyzing media and peer influence. The ultimate goal: to promote abstinence from substance abuse and adolescent sexual involvement through the practice of responsible behavior.

Although fine arts are an important element to our daily programs we go beyond traditional mediums to bridge the digital divide. Our Imagemakers digital photography program encourages girls and boys to learn and practice photography, expressing themselves in creative and innovative ways. The national initiative delivers a state-of-the-art photography curriculum, provides photographic resources and opportunities for Club members to compete on a national level. ImageMakers provides local, regional and national recognition through an annual photography contest.

Whether it's basketball, roller hockey, our indoor batting cage or a simple game of dodgeball, the kids at our Clubs are continually encouraged to participate in our athletic programs. With a focus on sportsmanship and teamwork, kids can learn and acquire new skills in a non-competitive environment.

Through a collaboration with Major League Baseball and the Anaheim Angels, The Boys & Girls Clubs of Placentia - Yorba Linda has established baseball and fast-pitch softball teams. With over 550 participants in 2005, the Orange County RBI (Reviving Baseball in the Inner cities) league is an incredible asset to our youth. For the past two years our Placentia Senior Boys team has received first place in their division.

All RBI leagues incorporate Quick SMART!, a prevention/education program designed to teach players to avoid alcohol and other drug use and premature sexual involvement.

One thing that makes Boys & Girls Clubs unique from any other youth development programs is our ability to tailor specialized programs to fit the needs of our community. Whether its teaching kids about online auctions, teaching STOMP to a group of ten year olds, or doing plays in our drama room, there is no end to the fun that happens at our Clubs each day.