Case for Support
A QUICK GLANCE AT OUR IMPACT
ACADEMIC SUCCESS
In 2018–2019, 70% improved GPA, 93% excelled in core subjects, and all advanced to the next grade. Teens receive support for college, careers, and part-time jobs, along with tutoring and homework help.
HEALTHY LIFESTYLES
We promote fitness, nutrition education, and healthy cooking. Members grow vegetables, receive health screenings, and enjoy daily snacks.
GOOD CHARACTER & CITIZENSHIP
Youth build confidence and community involvement through service projects, mentoring, diversity education, financial literacy, and the “Youth of the Year” program.
Case for Support
THE NEED IS REAL
Our children need us now more than ever. In Maury County, one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing areas, the 2024 County Profiles of Child Well-Being ranks the county 66th out of 95 in overall child well-being. Approximately 15.5% of children live below the poverty line, 43% of teens are overweight or obese, and 17% experience frequent mental distress. Statewide, youth substance abuse reaches 28.1%, and 31% of Maury County youth aren’t getting the physical activity they need.
Giles County faces similar challenges, ranking 49th in child well-being. About 12% of youth are obese, and 18% experience frequent mental distress. The county also struggles with limited access to healthcare providers, including behavioral health professionals. These statistics underscore the urgent need for enhanced social-emotional learning and support systems for our youth.
OUR KIDS ARE IN CRISIS.
THEY DESPERATELY NEED OUR SUPPORT.
63% of third graders in Maury County did not pass the ELA portion of TCAP the ELA portion of TCAP.
In 2022, 8.8% of our community’s children—nearly 11,000—lived in poverty. In 2024, the percentage has grown to 16%.
1 in 5 children in Columbia struggle daily with homework.. This represents 63% of Maury County.
One in five teens in Tennessee has contemplated suicide.. The state ranks 41st in youth mental health nationwide.
61.7% of economically disadvantages students rely on free or reduced-price meals everyday.
KIDS FACE INCREASING CHALLENGES DAILY
In 2022, 8.8% of children in our community—nearly 11,000—lived in poverty. By 2024, this figure increased to 16%.
ENSURING EVERY CHILD HAS ACCESS TO LIFE-CHANGING OPPORTUNITIES
Case for Support
BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS ARE UNIQUELY SUITED TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEM.
Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) is one of the largest and most impactful youth service organizations in the country, with over 150 years of experience providing safe spaces, life-enhancing programs, and caring mentors. With more than 4,300 Clubs nationwide, BGCA serves over 4 million kids and teens annually.
Every kid deserves a place—a place to feel safe, a place to feel connected, and a place to belong. Boys & Girls Clubs provide that place. After school and during the summer, Clubs offer youth a chance to grow beyond the classroom and build meaningful relationships with mentors who care.
Since the first Club opened over 150 years ago, thousands more have followed—in large cities, small towns, Native lands, and U.S. military installations around the world. No matter why a young person walks through the doors of a Club, they leave with the confidence that they are in a fun, safe space where they are supported, accepted, and inspired to become the best version of themselves.
By serving 4 million kids and teens each year, Boys & Girls Clubs bring an unmatched level of expertise in youth development. This experience allows Clubs to better support young people during critical out-of-school hours.
Our leadership is grounded in a strong commitment to delivering a high-quality Club Experience at every location. That experience is made possible by caring, trained professionals who know what it takes to advocate for youth and help them discover and develop their full potential.
Case for Support
ADDRESSING THE PROBLEM IN TENNESSEE
Founded in 1986 by a group of visionary community leaders, the Boys & Girls Club of Maury County began in borrowed spaces with a bold mission: to provide youth with a safe, supportive environment where they could thrive. Over the years, through strong leadership, strategic growth, and unwavering dedication, the organization evolved into what is now known as the Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee (BGCSCTN).
Today—more than 25 years later—BGCSCTN serves over 1,500 youth annually across 14 sites in Maury and Giles Counties, offering high-impact programs that meet the evolving needs of today’s kids and teens.
For more than two decades, BGCSCTN has been a trusted partner to families, providing safe spaces, caring mentors, and transformative opportunities. We know that consistent support and meaningful relationships can change the trajectory of a child’s life.
But our mission goes beyond daily programming. BGCSCTN is a voice for youth at the local, state, and national levels—advocating for equity, access, and resources to ensure every young person has the opportunity to succeed. Backed by strong financial stewardship, passionate staff and volunteers, and deep community commitment, BGCSCTN continues to grow its impact and remains a second home for the kids who need us most.
ACADEMIC SUCCESS
Our Academic Case Management Program provides weekly tutoring, real-time school data, and daily homework help. In 2018-2019, 70% improved GPA, 93% excelled in core subjects, and 100% advanced to the next grade.
Teens are given opportunities for college tours, financial aid workshops, mock interviews, and resume writing. With personalized coaching, they plan for college or careers, and many secure part-time jobs.
HEALTHY LIFESTYLES
We promote fitness, nutrition education, and healthy cooking. Members grow vegetables, receive health screenings, and enjoy daily snacks.
GOOD CHARACTER & CITIZENSHIP
Youth build confidence and community involvement through service projects, mentoring, diversity education, financial literacy, and the “Youth of the Year” program
MEET ANDY, NATALYN, AND JUNIOR: THREE RESILIENT SIBLINGS THRIVING AT THE CLUB
After losing both parents last year, siblings Andy, Natalyn, and Junior faced unimaginable grief and change. They moved from their small hometown to Columbia, TN, to live with their aunt, a single mother now caring for nine children. Amid this transition, the Boys & Girls Club Teen Center at West 8th Street has become a vital source of comfort, stability, and healing—helping them adjust, grow, and find a sense of belonging in their new home.
THE IMPACT IS REAL: 54% OF OUR ALUMNI SAID THE CLUB SAVED THEIR LIFE.
66
82
86
1,500 YOUTH SERVED ANNUALLY ACROSS 3 CLUBHOUSE SITES, AND 11 SCHOOL-BASED LOCATIONS
Case for Support
FY2023 MEMBERSHIP AND ATTENDANCE
Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee serves more than 1,500 youth annually across 14 sites in Maury and Giles Counties, reaching kids at every stage of development—from early childhood through the teenage years.
According to our Membership & Attendance Reports and BGCA’s Data Collection and Measurement tools, most members fall within the elementary and early middle school range. Over half (53%) are ages 6–9, and 27% are 10–12—critical years for building academic and social foundations.
While younger members make up the majority, we’re deeply committed to serving teens as well. As of 2024, all teen membership fees have been waived. Youth ages 13–15 represent 6% of our members, and those 16–18 account for 2%. These older members engage in programs focused on college and career readiness, leadership, and mentoring. A small number of young adults over 18 stay involved through continued guidance and workforce support.
Across every age group, BGCSCTN provides a safe, inclusive environment where youth can grow, connect, and thrive.
MEMBERS SERVED IN MAURY AND GILES COUNTIES
6%
53%
27%
6%
2%
3%
Case for Support
FY2023 AUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCES
The audited financial statements of Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee reflect a portion of the broader impact made through our network of Club locations and partnerships. Each of our sites operates as part of a unified mission, while also maintaining individual records of revenue and expenditures.