BOYS & GIRLS CLUB
Foundation For Youth is all about creating a positive and exciting space for our FFY Kids with diverse programs that bring fun and learning together. In the After School Season, our FFY Kids explore hands-on experiences in the innovative Maker's Studio, the Comcast xFinity Computer Lab, Cranium Bowl, Game Room, Playground, Gymnasiums, and more!
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Our Summer Season brings the FFY Summer of Exploration, where FFY Kids unlock a world of new adventures and friendships. With memorable field trips, an unforgettable
stay at Columbus Youth Camp, and plenty of other surprises, the season culminates in a spectacular FFY Kid Talent Show and End of Summer Carnival.
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When fall and spring breaks arrive, FFY is ready to provide even more engaging programming so our FFY Kids can enjoy their time off to the fullest. From fun games and scavenger hunts to exciting staff-versus-club member basketball matchups, there’s something for everyone! And all of this is just for our FFY Kids in Kindergarten to Sixth Grade. Don’t forget to explore our Teens section for the most active teen programming in our community!
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We serve all school aged youth from 5-18 years old, K-12th grades. We are open week days, breaks, and snow days!
5 Key Elements
SAFE, POSITIVE ENVIRONMENT
We strive to create an environment which promotes both physical and emotional safety and health every day. We institute programs and policies to protect our youth from the internet, from bullying, and from physical harm. We want FFY Kids to feel safe enough to trust, to grow, and to be themselves. In addition to providing a safe environment, we provide youth with the tools they need to solve problems in a positive way.
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BE STRONG.
BE YOURSELF.
BE SAFE.
FUN
Fun is a requirement at the Club! It’s the first item on our staff meeting agenda and the main ingredient in many of our activities. From the time FFY Kids come through the door until they grab their bag from the cubbies to leave, fun is what creates memorable experiences and creates a strong sense of belonging for members.
BE SILLY.
BE HAPPY.
BE AMAZING.
SUPPORTIVE
RELATIONSHIPS
Staff members actively cultivate meaningful relationships with youth to ensure that every FFY Kids feels connected. We offer guidance to youth, behave ethically to earn their respect, and build trust in these relationships so youth feel acknowledged and supported. When FFY Kids are dealing with personal difficulties — big or small — they know they are not alone, and we are here to mentor and assist them.​
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BE RESPECTFUL.
BE SUPPORTIVE.
BE HONEST.
OPPORTUNITIES
& EXPECTATIONS
The Club creates opportunities for success for FFY Kids. We set clear expectations to promote excellence and ethical behavior. FFY Kids learn to take pride in the Club and learn quickly to “respect self, respect others, respect FFY.”​
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BE SMART.
BE ETHICAL.
BE WONDERFUL.
RECOGNITION
The Club creates opportunities for success for FFY Kids. We set clear expectations to promote excellence and ethical behavior. FFY Kids learn to take pride in the Club and learn quickly to “respect self, respect others, respect FFY.”​
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BE BRILLIAN.
BE CONFIDENT.
BE CREATIVE.
CLUB BEHAVIOR APPROACH
We follow a TBRI/Trauma informed approach with all members.
We provide everyone that comes into our club with the following:
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Having compassion for our children, regardless of the type of day they are having.
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Using empathy with children and refrain from shameful responses.
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Intentionally connect with our children by:
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Using healthy touch: high fives, fist bumps, hand shakes, etc.
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Giving eye contact to children when engaging with them
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Controlling the tone, volume, and cadence of our voices when interacting with children
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Matching a child’s behavior, including talking about their interests or mirroring their body language
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Interacting playfully with children
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Engaging in positive conversations during check-in and dismissal
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Teach children about their regulation and guide them to regulating activities
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Ensure children have access to water and snacks
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Give advanced notice of changes that might occur
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Support transitions that happen throughout a session
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As adults, being aware of our own stressors and understanding when our stress response system is activated
STAY IN THE KNOW!
Join the FFY Newsletter to get the latest updates on our programs, events, volunteer opportunities, and more!
