Boys & Girls Club of Elma, Marilla and Wales

The POSITIVE Place For Kids

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History of National Organization

Boys & Girls Clubs of America had its beginnings in 1860 with several women in Hartford, Connecticut.  Believing that boys who roamed the streets should have a positive alternative, they organized the first Club.  A cause was born.

In 1906, several Boys Clubs decided to affiliate.  The Federated Boys Clubs in Boston was formed with 53 member organizations -- this marked the start of a nationwide movement.

In 1931, the Boys Club Federation of America became Boys Clubs of America.

In 1956, Boys Clubs of America celebrated its 50th Anniversary and received a U.S. Congressional Charter.

To recognize the fact that girls are a part of our cause, the national organization's name was changed to Boys & Girls Clubs of America in 1990.  Accordingly, Congress amended and renewed our charter.

2006 marks the 100th Anniversary of this wonderful organization!

Visit the website of the national organization:   www.bgca.org