Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma

Boys & Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County (BGCOKC) is a non-profit organization established in 1995, dedicated to youth development in the Oklahoma County area. It operates as a 501(c)(3) public charity and is an affiliate of the national Boys & Girls Clubs of America. The organization has demonstrated significant growth, expanding from a single location to 18 club sites that serve over 1,200 children daily and more than 16,000 annually through various outreach programs. One of its founding members, Rick Nagel, was actively involved with the Boys & Girls Clubs in his own youth and has continued to serve the organization at local, state, and national levels.

The organization's operational framework is centered on providing a safe and structured environment for youth, primarily from low-income areas, during after-school and out-of-school hours. Its business model is funded through a combination of grants, contributions, and fundraising events like the annual "Champions of Youth" celebration. Financial documents indicate a commitment to transparency, earning high ratings from accountability watchdogs like Charity Navigator. The organization manages a diverse portfolio of funding, including federal and state grants, and has experience administering capital expenditure projects for renovations and repairs across multiple locations. Current leadership includes President and CEO Teena Belcik, who brought a background in corporate finance and strategic planning to the role in 2020.

BGCOKC delivers a wide array of evidence-based programs focused on three key outcomes: Academic Success, Good Character and Citizenship, and Healthy Lifestyles. Services include tutoring, homework assistance, and college and career preparation, with specific programs like "Money Matters" teaching financial literacy to teens. The organization also offers extensive enrichment activities such as sports, arts, music, dance, and STEAM projects, including a Best Buy Teen Tech Center. To support holistic well-being, the clubs provide mentoring, mental health support, and nutritious meals. Membership is accessible to youth aged 6-18 for a nominal annual fee, ensuring that services reach those who need them most.

Keywords: youth development, after-school programs, non-profit organization, Oklahoma County community services, child and youth programs, academic enrichment, mentorship, character development, healthy lifestyles, teen services, workforce development, college preparation, financial literacy for youth, community outreach, youth centers, STEAM education, positive youth environment, child safety, non-profit leadership, Oklahoma City charities