Teen Program
Teen Program
Our Teen Program at BGCKC is designed to empower young people to grow into confident, capable leaders. Through a mix of academic support, career exploration, life skills, and engaging activities, teens gain the tools they need to succeed in school and beyond. The program provides a safe, supportive space where members can build meaningful relationships, discover their passions, and prepare for their future.
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Empowering Young People to Succeed
Keystone is a national program that encourages teens ages 14 to 18 to become leaders in their communities through civic engagement and service learning. Keystone Clubs participate in a national service project and are required to raise $3,000 annually in order to qualify for participation in the Regional and National Keystone Conferences.
Teen Club Nights
Teen Club Nights are designed to give teens a space that feels like their own. Twice a month from 6–9 p.m., the Club transforms into a teens-only environment where members can relax, connect, and explore their interests in a safe and welcoming setting. Teens choose how they want to spend their evening whether that’s esports, gym games, board games, creative projects, or simply hanging out with friends. Chromebooks, computers, and Wi-Fi are available for homework, research, and personal projects, giving teens the flexibility to work or unwind. Teen Club Nights help young people build friendships, develop independence, and enjoy positive experiences after hours in a space created just for them.
Paxton-Patterson Career Labs
Our Paxton-Patterson Labs give teens a hands-on way to explore real-world careers by actually trying the skills, not just hearing about them. These labs help teens discover their strengths, build confidence, and learn practical skills that support future success. At our Club, members rotate through three main labs — Nursing, Cosmetology & Barbering, and Home Maintenance each offering interactive, project-based learning.
Ramiro Martinez
Senior Director of Teen Programs
Number: 661-325-3730 ext. 265
Youth of the Year Spotlight: Shayra Castillo
Shayra Castillo joined the Boys & Girls Club as a shy sophomore in the Career Launch program, unsure of her voice and her direction. With the support of mentors and a welcoming teen community, she began to grow in confidence and discover her purpose. Through Career Launch, Shayra earned a summer job with the Kern County Library and later secured an internship with Dress for Success—experiences that helped her develop leadership, professionalism, and independence. Her journey from quiet and uncertain to strong, expressive, and driven reflects the heart of what Youth of the Year represents. Today, Shayra uses her story to uplift others, advocate for teens facing emotional challenges, and show that great futures truly begin at the Boys & Girls Club.
Jr. Youth of the Year Spotlight:
Christopher Roman
Christopher Roman has been part of the Boys & Girls Club since he was five years old, growing up surrounded by mentors and opportunities that helped shape his confidence and character. As a 7th grader, he has learned the importance of making positive decisions and staying focused on his goals. Through the Club, Christopher has committed himself to school, earning A’s and B’s, exploring new interests like guitar, and discovering that college is a real possibility for his future. His leadership, resilience, and willingness to grow make him a strong representative of the Junior Youth of the Year program. Christopher’s journey shows that choosing the right path can open doors to opportunities he never imagined.
Volunteerism
Volunteerism is at the core of our teen programs. Our members use their time, talents, and energy to uplift others, from helping younger youth to supporting community partners. Every project teaches responsibility, leadership, and empathy. Most importantly, it shows our teens that they have the power to create meaningful change right where they live.