Safety First
At Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, the safety and well-being of young people is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that when youth feel safe—mentally, physically, and emotionally—they can truly learn, grow, and thrive. That’s why we are constantly evolving our safety policies, practices, and training to ensure they are always centered on the needs of the children we serve. Their protection is our deepest commitment.
Safe Spaces
When school lets out, we step in—offering a secure, supportive environment where kids can learn, play, and grow. With trusted staff, nourishing meals, and access to sports, the arts, and positive mentorship, every moment is designed to help them build confidence and make smart choices. Our team is thoroughly trained and screened, and safety is built into everything we do. See below how safety shapes lives at the Clubs.
Key Stats
Club youth stood out from their peers when asked about safe and smart choices, proving that the good habits they’re building at the Clubs are making a real impact. When Club kids build strong habits and make wise choices, it’s a clear sign that our programs are working and making a real difference in their lives. We’ve highlighted some key stats from the BGCA youth outcome data.
Club teens who choose to stay smoke-free
Club teens who have a trusted adult at the Club to talk to
Club members who feel accepted for who they are
Safety Policies
Background Checks
Staff and volunteers undergo mandatory annual criminal background checks.
Continuous Enhancement
Continual updates to Clubs’ sexual abuse prevention policies, practices, and trainings that align with best practices of healthcare and school-based settings.
Mandatory Reporting
Local Boys & Girls Clubs are required to immediately report any suspected abuse or victimization to the appropriate authorities and then to Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
Mandatory Safety Assessments
Clubs are required to complete a mandatory annual safety assessment.
Policy Communications
Clubs must inform parents and guardians of safety policies when they receive a youth membership application.
Reference Requirement
Any employee looking to move to another Club MUST have a reference from the previous Club to be eligible for rehire.
Resources for Families and Staff
Impactful training and resources for Club youth and families focused on mental health and social-emotional development.
Resources for Youth Members
Clubs are required to prominently display key safety resources and information, including the Child Safety Helpline and Crisis Text Line.
Safety Committees
We have a Board-led Safety Committee that elevates safety to the highest level of governance and is required to fulfill these same responsibilities.
Third Party Experts
We work closely with Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) and trusted third-party experts to strengthen our safety practices. Recently, BGCA partnered with RAINN, the nation’s leading abuse prevention organization, for a safety review.
Caregiver Safety Resources
Caregivers, parents, and mentors can find expert safety advice and practical tips to help create safe, nurturing environments for the children and youth in their lives. These resources empower adults to recognize signs of abuse and take proactive steps to prevent harm, ensuring every child feels safe, valued, and protected as they grow and thrive.
Child Safety & Quality Assurance Team
Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Child Safety & Quality Assurance (CSQA) team is a key partner in helping Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee strengthen safety practices. They support us through expert consultations, live training sessions, and valuable resources tailored to our needs. With their guidance, we implement the best safety practices to ensure our Club provides the safest physical and emotional environment for the youth we serve.
In addition, BGCA has recently ensured that all members of the CSQA team have earned the Praesidium Guardian Certification, reinforcing their commitment to abuse prevention and helping us maintain the highest safety standards for every child in our care.
Resources When You Need Help
Child Safety Helpline
Crisis Text Line
Need to Vent?
Simply text HOME or HOLA to 741741 to reach a live volunteer Crisis Counselor.
We are always here for you. FREE, 24/7, confidential.
https://www.crisistextline.org/