Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about the Boys & Girls Club of Kenosha.
General
What is the Boys & Girls Club of Kenosha?
The Boys & Girls Club of Kenosha (BGCK) is a nonprofit youth development organization that has been serving the Kenosha community since 1940. We are a chartered affiliate of Boys & Girls Clubs of America and provide programs in academic success, healthy lifestyles, good character, and citizenship for youth ages 6-18. Our mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.
Where is the Club located?
Our main clubhouse is located at 1330 52nd Street, Kenosha, WI 53140. We also operate the SCAMPS Gymnastics facility at 5711 77th Street, Kenosha, WI. Our main phone number is (262) 654-6200.
What are the Club's hours of operation?
Building Hours: Monday-Friday 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Closed Sunday.
Youth Center (Ages 6-12): Monday-Friday 2:00-8:00 PM during the school year.
Teen Center (Ages 13-18): Monday-Friday 2:00-9:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM.
Hours may vary during school breaks, holidays, and summer. Call (262) 654-6200 for current hours or check the Weather Hotline at (262) 653-7354 for closures.
Does the Club provide transportation?
Yes! During the school year, we provide free bus transportation from 9 Kenosha elementary schools directly to the Club via "Gus the Bus." Children are picked up after school and brought safely to the Club for after-school programming. Parents are responsible for pick-up at the end of the day.
Is the Club safe?
Safety is our #1 priority. We maintain a zero-tolerance abuse policy, require comprehensive background checks for all staff and volunteers, provide mandatory safety training, and follow Boys & Girls Clubs of America's national safety standards. Our facility has a check-in/check-out system, and parents are always welcome to visit. If you ever have a safety concern, call the BGCA Child Safety Hotline at 866-607-SAFE.
Membership
How much does membership cost?
Membership is incredibly affordable:
- Youth (ages 6-12): $20 per year
- Family (2+ children): $30 per year
- Teens (ages 13-18): FREE
- Adults: $65 per year
Membership includes access to all Club programs, free daily meals, and the Basic Needs Closet. No child is ever turned away due to inability to pay — financial assistance is available.
How do I register my child?
Registration is completed in person at the Club, located at 1330 52nd Street, Kenosha, WI 53140. You will need to fill out a membership application and provide emergency contact information. Stop by during building hours or call (262) 654-6200 for more information.
What ages does the Club serve?
Our Youth Center serves children ages 6-12, and our Teen Center serves teens ages 13-18. SCAMPS Gymnastics offers programs for children as young as 1 year old through age 18. Some adult programs are also available, including pickleball and facility rentals.
What if I can't afford the membership fee?
No child is ever turned away due to inability to pay. Financial assistance and reduced membership rates are available. Please speak with our front desk staff or call (262) 654-6200 to discuss your options. We believe every child deserves access to our programs regardless of financial circumstances.
Youth Programs
What programs are available for kids ages 6-12?
Youth programs run Monday-Friday from 2:00-8:00 PM during the school year and include Power Hour (homework help), Project Learn, Torch Club leadership (ages 10-12), SMART Moves life skills, Healthy Habits, fine arts, digital arts, STEM activities, game room time, gym time, and daily meals. Transportation is available from 9 elementary schools via Gus the Bus.
Are meals provided?
Yes! We serve over 20,000 nutritious meals per year to Club members at absolutely no cost. During the school year, dinner and snacks are provided. On non-school days and during the summer, lunch and snacks are provided. Our food program is funded through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). We also operate the Maytag Feel Good Fridge, which provides fresh food for families to take home.
What about summer programs?
We offer summer programming to keep kids engaged and learning all year long:
- AM Adventures: Morning care starting at 6:30 AM ($20/day, $80/week)
- Quest Camp: Afternoon programming from 12:00-4:45 PM including field trips, sports, enrichment, and two daily meals (free for members after 12 PM)
- Sports Camps: Various sports camps throughout the summer
Teen Programs
Is teen membership really free?
Yes! Membership is completely free for all teens ages 13-18. This includes full access to the Teen Center, all teen programs, free meals, and the Basic Needs Closet. We want to ensure every teenager in Kenosha has a safe place to go and programs to support their growth and development.
What programs are available for teens?
Our teen programs are designed to prepare young people for success after high school:
- Keystone Club (ages 14-18): Leadership development and community service
- CareerLaunch: Career exploration and job readiness skills
- diplomas2Degrees: College preparation and financial aid guidance
- Money Matters: Financial literacy and budgeting skills
- SMART Girls / Passport to Manhood: Gender-specific life skills
- Youth of the Year: Annual recognition of outstanding teen members
Are there scholarship opportunities for teens?
Yes! Graduating seniors who are BGCK members can apply for several scholarships including the Carthage College Buchanan Scholarship (up to 7 four-year scholarships annually), Herzing University scholarships (2 full-ride scholarships), and the Frank Matrise Jr. and Pat Quilling sports scholarships. Our diplomas2Degrees program also helps teens with college applications and financial aid.
Sports
What sports does the Club offer?
We offer basketball, football (flag and tackle), baseball, softball, T-ball, soccer, volleyball, golf, pickleball, and various fitness classes. Sports are offered seasonally throughout the year. BGCK membership is required to participate in sports leagues. Visit our Sports page for current offerings and registration information.
How do I register for sports?
Sports registration is handled through our Member Tracking System (MTS). You must have a current BGCK membership to register. Contact the Sports Department at (262) 653-7320 or [email protected] for registration assistance. Registration fees vary by sport but are kept as affordable as possible, with uniforms typically included.
How do I check if a game has been cancelled?
Call our Weather Hotline at (262) 653-7354 for up-to-date information about game cancellations due to weather or other circumstances. Cancellations are also communicated through the Sports Department email and social media.
Can I volunteer as a coach?
Absolutely! We welcome volunteer coaches for all of our sports programs. All volunteers must pass a comprehensive background check and complete safety training before working with youth. Contact the Sports Department at [email protected] or visit our volunteer page to express interest.
Employment
How do I apply for a job at the Club?
Visit our Careers page to see current job openings. You can also inquire in person at 1330 52nd Street or call (262) 654-6200. We are always looking for passionate individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of young people. All positions require a background check.
Does the Club hire teens?
Yes, we have youth employment and job readiness programs for teens. The Club offers opportunities for teen members to gain work experience and develop professional skills. Check with the Teen Center staff or visit our Careers page for current youth employment opportunities.
Still Have Questions?
We are happy to help. Reach out to us by phone, email, or stop by the Club in person. Our staff is ready to assist you.