One Timeless Mission
80 Years Of Great Futures
Over eight decades, Boys & Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley has been a beacon of support for youth, fostering growth and leaving an enduring impact on our community.
About The Cause
Our Journey
Imagine a place where who you are, where you’re from or the circumstances that surround you don’t determine your access to experiences or opportunities. Through the support of countless community members like you, Boys & Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley has been making that vision a reality for youth for 80 years.
May 11, 1944 - Boys' City Boys Club
Believing that boys who roamed the streets should have a positive alternative, our founder “Uncle Harry” Slonaker organized the Boys’ City Boys Club (BCBC). With character development and civic leadership as the cornerstone of the experience, the Club focused on capturing boys’ interests, improving their behavior, and increasing their personal expectations and goals.
1951
From its beginnings in a rent-free vacant neighborhood grocery, the BCBC moving pillar to post would eventually outgrow 8 temporary homes until 1951. Harry and the youth leaders of Boys City convinced a consortium of architects, building suppliers, labor unions, public officials, and concerned citizens to pitch in and build a permanent site on land leased from the city of San Jose for one dollar a year.
1975
The Club’s first official summer program debuts at the Northside, Eastside, and Southside Clubhouses. Local youth would be able to enjoy 10 weeks of club spaces, sports programs, and services for a registration fee of 50 cents.
1989 - Boys & Girls Clubs
The Club opens its doors to girls, pre-dating Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s transition to coeducational Clubs by four years. To recognize the fact that girls are a part of our cause, the organization’s name would officially be changed to Boys & Girls Clubs in 1993.
1993
In response to community concern for gang violence, Boys & Girls Clubs intensified efforts to keep children off the streets. New members were paired with veteran club members upon joining, fostering community cohesion and group bonding while promoting a safer environment. Additionally, a dedicated homework center was opened within the Club, providing essential academic support and aiming to reduce dropout rates by nurturing educational success.
2002
A landmark year for Boys & Girls Clubs as Proposition 49 in California fueled the Club’s first large growth period. With increased state grant funds, the organization expanded from four clubs to ten, facilitating before and after-school programs. These programs offered vital tutoring, homework assistance, and educational enrichment, significantly enhancing opportunities for youth development.
2016 - On The National Stage
Boys & Girls Clubs of America named BGCSV teen Jocelyn Woods National Youth of the Year – the organization’s highest honor for Club members. She accepted the honor at the National Building Museum in Washington D.C before an audience that included members of Congress, Boys & Girls Clubs of America partners and supporters, and celebrity Club alumni. Jocelyn received $145,000 in academic scholarships, as well as a trip to Disney World and a brand-new Toyota vehicle.
Through it all, kids have been our #1 priority.
In a typical year, Boys & Girls Clubs provides a safe haven for 6,000+ local youth, giving them an opportunity to discover their great futures. Over our 80-year history, Boys & Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley has transformed the lives of countless young people, inspiring hope and fostering a sense of belonging. By offering a safe and supportive space, the organization has empowered members to overcome challenges, build meaningful relationships, and develop essential life skills.