Oceanside CA— Boys & Girls Clubs of Oceanside (BGCO) was honored by the North County Gang Commission at the “Building Better Futures Summit” for their outstanding BE GREAT: Graduate At-Risk Mentoring Program. The Commission recognized BGCO for their exceptional service in the area of gang prevention, intervention, and suppression in North San Diego County.
For the past decade, BGCO has provided the BE GREAT: Graduate program, delivering individually tailored wrap-around services to more than 100 youth each year. Be GREAT: Graduate is part of an initiative that targets young people most vulnerable for dropping out of school. This comprehensive strategy is based on the University of Minnesota’s evidence-based model, Check and Connect. The strategy consists of three components: Mentor–Youth Relationship, Intentional Tracking , Enhancing Club-School-Home Partnership and Communication. The BE GREAT: Graduate program keeps students engaged and on a path to success.
Mentors are matched with 3 to 4 mentees and meet weekly to check in, receive assistance with academics and set goals for the upcoming week.
“Through our BE GREAT: Graduate program we want to give youth the guidance and help they need to overcome whatever challenges they are facing,” said Jodi Diamond, CEO. “The Club is a place where youth find refuge from their difficulties, learn to deal with adversity, and ultimately grow into confident, responsible, and caring members of society. We are thrilled to receive this award for Excellence in Service to the youth in our community.”

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Oceanside

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Oceanside (BGCO) is a youth development organization that is dedicated to providing a safe, fun and enriching environment for youth to spend time during non-school hours. During the school year, we serve 1,100 youth daily, providing stimulating and quality Science, Technology, Research, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STREAM) activities. In addition, we offer a unique program to adults with disabilities, called R.O.A.D.’s.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Oceanside is a local, independent organization affiliated with Boys & Girls Clubs of America. The BGCO raises 100% of the funds that support our life changing programs through individual giving, events and grants. 100% of those funds stay right here in North County to serve youth in our local communities.