Mid-Peninsula Boys & Girls Club's (MPBGC) mission is to inspire and enable all youth, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as caring, responsible and productive citizens. Since 1955, MPBGC has strived to develop and strengthen the intellectual, emotional and social growth of youth, ages 6-18, by offering challenging and interactive programming within a safe, structured environment during after-school hours, non-school days, vacation breaks and inter-sessions. Led by youth-development professionals all educational, social and recreational programs and activities are informed by a youth development strategy that encourages a positive self-identity while fostering a sense of belonging, competence, usefulness and influence by building self-esteem and self-confidence. As a youth development agency and a community partner, MPBGC understands that education is one of the most effective interventions for improving the communities in which we serve. By providing at-risk youth with accessible after-school educational enrichment programs, assistance and mentorship at no- or low-cost to our families, MPBGC is part of the solution to close the academic achievement gap to achieve greater economic, political and social equality among disadvantaged youth and the communities in which they live.