Boys & Girls Clubs of America is a non-profit organization founded in 1860 to provide young people with a safe place to learn and grow. It is one of the nation’s largest youth development organizations, operating in over 4,300 communities in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. The organization’s mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need it most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. The Boys & Girls Clubs offer a range of programs and services designed to promote the academic, social, and emotional development of young people. These programs include education and career development, character and leadership, the arts, health and life skills, and sports, fitness, and recreation. The organization’s focus is on providing a supportive and nurturing environment where young people can develop relationships with caring adults, make friends, and learn important skills. Boys & Girls Clubs are open to all young people, regardless of race, gender, religion, or socioeconomic status. The organization relies on the support of donors, volunteers, and community partners to fund and operate its programs. It is governed by a national board of directors and has a network of local chapters that operate independently but under the Boys & Girls Clubs of America umbrella.