HANDBOOK PARENT
About the Club
The Boys & Girls Clubs of East Alabama, Inc. (hereto referred to as “the Club”) provides young people ages 6-18 with a safe place to learn and grow after school and in the summertime. The Club offers a dynamic learning environment that includes fun, impactful and age-appropriate programs focused on developing healthy lifestyles, good character and citizenship and academic success, mentoring by caring adult professionals, free, healthy snacks and outstanding facilities.
Youth Development Strategy
BGCEAL youth development strategy is designed to promote success in academics, good character, and leadership, and a healthy sense of self for youth to live full, satisfying, productive lives.
• We will meet the needs of your child(ren) by:
• Providing for the development of self-esteem in the selection, structure, and balance of activities offered.
• Offering members an environment of warmth and security provided by caring staff, in which they can all grow, respect, and enjoy each other.
• Encouraging freedom within set limits.
• Fostering individuality, decision-making, and problemsolving skills.
• Providing nutritious foods that meet the health needs of growing children.
We will meet the needs of your family by:
• Providing the security of a safe and caring environment.
• Remaining affordable
• Creating a bridge between school and home.
Mission
To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, realize their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens.
Vision
Provide a world-class Club Experience that assures success is within reach of every young person who enters our doors with all members on track to graduate from high school with a plan for the future, demonstrating good character and citizenship, and living a healthy lifestyle.
Programs
While at the Club, members will participate in a variety of programs in the following areas which have been nationally proven to address today’s most pressing youth issues and assist in teaching young people the skills they need to succeed in life.
• Character and Leadership Development
• Health and Life Skills
• Education and Career Development
• The Arts
• Sports, Fitness and Recreation
Club programs and services promote a sense of
• Competence
• Usefulness
• Belonging
• Power of Influence
• Self Confidence
More detailed information about the specific programs the Club offers to different age groups and when they are offered throughout the year can be found in our Program Guide. Program information can also be found on our website.
Staff and Volunteers
A staff member oversees each of our designated program areas. Our staff are trained Youth Development Professionals. Staff receive first aid, CPR and child abuse training. Volunteers often support our staff. Both volunteers and staff must pass both a state and national background check prior to being hired and yearly thereafter. Our staff members and volunteers are attentive to providing the safest environment possible.
Club Tours & Parent Orientation
If you would like a tour of the Club’s Auburn or Potter-Daniel Clubhouses before joining or are interested in taking part in a parent orientation, please contact the Clubhouse Directors at 334-502-1311, ext. 107 for Auburn, and ext. 108 for PotterDaniel(Opelika). Parent orientations are required and by appointment only. They can be scheduled between 12:00 p.m.6:00 p.m. during the school year or between 10:00 a.m. -4:00 p.m. during the summertime.
Membership
Membership is open to all youth between the ages of 6 and 18, regardless of race, color, creed, sexual orientation, or economic circumstances. A birth certificate is required for all new members ages 6 or 18. The Club is a private, non-profit organization. Membership at the Club is a privilege, not a right. All access and participation in the Club begins with a current Club membership.
Membership registration must be completed through the Parent Portal on MyClubHub a parent/guardian each calendar (even if membership is simply being renewed). Youth will not be able to attend the Club without an updated membership. Membership requires an annual $55 registration. The link to the Parent Portal can be found on our website, bgceastal.org.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of East Alabama, Inc. strives to be affordable for all members. Limited assistance may be available to members. Fees are non-refundable and are not prorated.
Membership Cards
One membership card will be provided to each new and renewal member when application requirements have been met. Club members should bring their card to the Club every day, and scan the card at the front desk. If a membership card is lost, a replacement fee of $1 will be charged.
Additional fees are charged for certain field trips, summer programming, non-school days, spring break week and for late pick-up. All After School Care children can use the Club’s facilities any time the Club is open.
It is understood that membership gives permission for photo and video release by the Club’s Marketing Department, unless otherwise indicated by a parent/guardian.
Information provided within the Parent Portal is critical. We ask that every effort be made to present contact information that is both current and accurate. It is the parents’/guardians’ responsibility to make any changes to telephone numbers (home, work, emergency contacts, etc.) and/or changes in address information in Parent Portal, as soon as such changes occur.
If for any reason your child or teen misses a school day, they may not attend the Club that day.
Hours of Operations
Hurs of Operation
School Year Hours
The Club’s school year program begins in August.
Starting in August, Club hours for the school year are as follows:
Monday 2:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday
2:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
2:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday
2:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Thursday
Friday
Saturday-Sunday
Summer Hours
2:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
2:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
2:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
2:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
2:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
2:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
The Club is closed for regular programming on Saturday and Sunday, however, special events are occasionally scheduled on weekends. Please check our online calendar.
Summer hours begin on the first weekday that school is out and end one week before school begins. The Auburn Clubhouse will be open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m Monday - Friday. Early Bird from 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. is offered at our Auburn Clubhouse for an additional price. The Opelika Clubhouse is open from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m Monday - Friday.
Day Camp Hours
The Club operates under the Auburn and Opelika School Districts. On non school days the Auburn and Potter-Daniel Clubhouses will be operate from 9:00 a. m.- 6:00 p. m.
Separate additional fees apply.
*Early bird (7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.) may be available at the Auburn Clubhouse for an additional fee.
Club Hours on Early Release Days
During the School Year
The club operates under the Auburn and Opelika City School Districts. On early release days the clubs will open at the time schools are dismissed.
Spring Break Hours
The Club opens at 9:00 a.m. and closes at 6:00 p.m. during spring break. Additional fees apply. Early bird from 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. is available at the Auburn location for an additional fee. Lunch and snack are provided for members. Additional fees will apply for field trips.
Holiday Closures
The Club is closed for the following holidays every year: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Juneteeth, Labor Day, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving, The day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Even, Christmas Day, The day after Christmas, New Year's Eve, New Year's Day
Weather Related Closings
In the case of severe weather, a decision will be made by the CEO and CD on whether the clubs will be open. Clubs will close if the weather is severe enough to close or force early dismissal from school. NO CLUB VEHICLES will be on the road under any circumstances. If the club is open and conditions worsen, the Clubhouse Director will consult the CEO and determine whether to close the clubhouse early. In any case, parents/guardians will be notified in a timely manner.
The organization reserves the right to change the hours of operations based on need and/or economic circumstances. There may be times the club must close due to unforeseen circumstances such as emergency repairs, staff training, inclement weather, etc. If the schools close due to inclement weather, the Club will be closed.
Parents/guardiansareencouraged
to follow us on all social media: Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay connected with the Organization and all that is happening within our Clubhouses. Parents will also get updates on Clubhouse operations through Twilio, the organization's communication app.
Nearly 300 kids come to the Club during
the school year.
Communication with Parents/Guardians
The Club uses Twilio, a communication app that makes it easy for parents/guardians to stay connected with the Club. We will contact you about important things like special events and weather related openings and closings. Twilio is free to use, you will get messages right from your phone. Parents/guardians are strongly encouraged to ensure that contacts are accurate and up to date in the Parent Portal on MyClubHub.
Release of Club Members & Information
The Club is often confronted with conflicting requests from parents/guardians of our members’ who may be separated or divorced, who disagree about who is to deliver or pick-up a youth or demand that the Club prohibit one or the other parent/guardian from picking up the youth. It is our policy to release youth to either parent, guardian or authorized caregiver unless a court order regarding this subject is presented to the Club directing us to act in a specific manner. In addition, the Club will only disclose attendance information contained in our member management system with an order from an appropriate court requiring us to do so.
Update information in our Parent Portal: http://bgceastalabama.force.com/portal
E-Blasts
Sign up to receive monthly e-newsletters with important information for Club families and friends about programs, staff, events and special opportunities. To sign up, visit our website at bgceastal.org or contact the marketing coordinator at 334-502-1311.
TheBoys&GirlsClubsofEast Alabama served over 7,800 snacks and meals this past year.
Safe Passage Policy
In the interest of safety for all out Club members, BGCEAL has adopted a Safe Passage Policy to protect club members as they depart from the Club. Please review this policy with your Club Member and make appropriate arrangements for picking up your Club member.
• Members must scan in and out of the Club each day.
• Members under the age of 12 must be escorted from the Club by a parent, guardian, or other authorized adults.
• Members aged 12 and older may leave the Club with written permission from a parent or guardian and a signed release of liability.
• No member, regardless of age, will be allowed to return to the Club once they leave the premises for the day.
• Members who leave unescorted without permission will face disciplinary actions up to and including suspension and termination of membership. The safety and protection of children and youth that we serve is the Club's number one priority.
If a staff member suspects that a parent/guardian picking up a child is under the influence of alcohol or other drugs or it would otherwise be unsafe if the child was released into their care, staff have the discretion to either ask the parent to have another family member come to pick up the child or contact the proper authorities.
Adult Visitor Policy
In order to ensure safety for our Club members and staff, anyone who enters our building including all visitors, volunteers, parents/guardians must all check in at the front desks. All adults are required to present their identification to scan into the Raptor system and receive a volunteer or visitor pass before entering the building.
Youth Visitor Policy
Youth ages 6-18 may visit the Auburn or Potter-Daniel Clubhouses once before becoming a member. Youth must check in at the front desk and provide parent contact information beforehand, in case of emergency.
PleaseseeourcurrentProgram Guide or visit our website for more information:bgceastal.org
In 2021 the Boys & Girls Clubs of East Alabama provided over 200 haircuts to members and youth in the community .
Club Fees
Annual Membership Fee
Boys & Girls Clubs of East Alabama membership is annual and all memberships are renewed at the beginning of each school year. Club membership fees are $55 per member.
Day Camp Fees
The Club has additional daily fees for non-school days. Day Camp will be available for purchase through the Parent Portal on MyClubHub.
Spring Break Week Fees
There is a separate additional fee for youth ages 6-18 to attend Spring Break Week at the Club. Please see our current Program Guide or visit our website for more information and most up-to-date pricing.
Late Pick Up Policy
Members must be picked up no later than 6:00 pm Walkers are dismissed at 5:30 pm
Late Fee Policy: The Club closes at 6:00 pm. While we understand emergencies arise, members must be picked up on time. If a member is not picked up on time it will result in the following actions:
• 1st offense: a warning
• 2nd offense: a late fee will be assessed. The first 5 minutes after the club closes will be $10.00. There will be a $1.00 added each minute afterward. Members will not be allowed to attend until the fee is paid.
• 3rd offense: member is suspended and not allowed to return until a parent conference is had with the Clubhouse Director. If this continues to be an issue it could result in the denial of membership.
After School Academy
Programs fees are $40.00/monthly. Transportation fees are $60.00/monthly. Transportation is available for Pick Elementary, Cary Woods Elementary, Dean Road Elementary, Auburn Early Education, Wright's Mill Road Elementary, and Drake Middle School
Summer Camp Fees
The Club has fees for summer for ages 6-18 year olds which are charged for the entire summer. Summer programs fees are due before a member is allowed to attend the club. If you have an outstanding balance on your account, you will not be able to register for the summer. Please see our Website for most up-to-date pricing.
Summer Field Trips
The cost of field trips are an additional fee. Field trips are on a first come first serve basis. Each age group will have at least one field trip per week. Parents/guardians will be responsible for paying the field trip fee, completing the permission form, and ensuring member has a field trip shirt.
Payment Information
If you are interested in assistance or would like to make a payment on your account, please visit the Parent Portal on MyClubHub. Visit our website, bgceastal.org, to access the Parent Portal.
Forms of payment include: credit or debit card and ACH
The Boys & Girls Clubs of East Alabama strives to be affordable for all members. Limited assistance may be available to members. Fees are nonrefundable and are not prorated.
Meals/Snacks
The Club understands and appreciates the need for a healthy diet for all of our Club members. It is our goal to encourage healthy eating habits that promote the well-being of our youth. Soda, energy drinks, fast food and unhealthy snacks are strongly discouraged. Through funding from the USDA and the SFSP program, during the school year, the Club provides a snack after school at 3:00 p.m. Through funding from the USDA and the SFSP program, in the summertime and on non-school days, the Club provides lunch at 12:00 p.m. and snack at 3:00 p.m. In accordance with the Federal Law and USDA policy, our institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.
Please notify the Club if your child or teen has any food allergies or dietary concerns. Menus are posted outside of the Club kitchen one week in advance. A weekly menu can also be obtained by calling the Clubhouse. Members may bring their own meals and snacks if they choose. The Club has a designated area for eating. Please keep food and drinks out of areas where such items are prohibited (Games Room, Computer Lab, Gym, etc.) Water fountains are available. Water bottles are strongly recommended. Please have any items you bring to the Club (lunchboxes, water bottles, etc.) labeled with the youth's first and last name.
Safety
We are committed to keeping our Club members safe at the Boys & Girls Club. Program areas and building exteriors are monitored by cameras 24/7; the cameras will be reviewed at our discretion. We have the following procedures and policies in place for emergencies.
Fire Safety
The Club conducts a minimum of quarterly fire drills with members and staff and implements the following procedures. All program areas have posted fire and tornado evacuation plans. In an orderly fashion, a staff person will direct members to exit the building, staying low to avoid smoke inhalation. Members will be directed outside of the building. In the event there is a need to evacuate the facility because of an actual fire, parents/guardians will be contacted through the Remind system.
Tornado Safety
The Club conducts a minimum of quarterly tornado drills with Club members and implements the following procedures. In an orderly fashion, a staff person will direct members to one of the tornado designated areas. Members will stay there until instructed by staff that it is safe to leave the area. During a warning, no members may leave the Club until the warning has been canceled.
Intruder Drills
The Club conducts a minimum of quarterly intruder drills with members and based on the drill, staff assess the situation and carry out one of the following sets of procedures:
Lock Down
If there is a threat outside or near the Club that is a safety concern for our members, we will lock down our building and no member will be allowed to leave the Club during that time until the situation has been cleared by either the Auburn or Opelika Police Departments. In the event of a medical emergency or a nonviolent threat, the Club may go into lock down as well. Members will be instructed by staff to remain in their program area until the threat has been cleared. During this time, it is important that members are following the direction of the staff in charge.
Active Threat
In the event of an intruder in the facility who is an active threat, Club staff have been trained in active threat, this facility practices Run Hide Fight. The importance of Run Hide Fight is to remain as safe as possible during an active threat situation. Run Hide Fight recommendations are as follows:
RUN
● Have an escape route and plan in mind
● Leave your belongings behind
● Keep your hands visible
HIDE
● Hide in an area out of the threat’s view
● Block entry to your hiding place and lock the doors
● Silence your cell phone and electronic devices
● As a last resort and only when your life is in imminent danger
● Attempt to incapacitate the threat
● Act with physical aggression and throw items at the threat
It is important to note that these steps shouldn’t always be done in succession. If you can, run, run. If you cannot run, try to hide. And if neither run nor hide are an option, fight. It is important to make sure youth understand Run Hide Fight prior to an incident to ensure they are fully prepared and understand what they need to do during an active threat situation. In the event there is an active threat in the facility, parents/guardians will be contacted through the Remind system
Evacuation&ReunificationPlan
In the case of an evacuation, The Auburn Club staff and members will meet at Auburn AME Church located at 576 Martin Luther King Dr. From there, parents/guardians will need to take direction from the Auburn Police Department or Club staff to be reunified with their Club members. The Potter-Daniel Staff and members will meet at the Covington Recreation Center located at 213 Carver Avenue. From their parents/guardians will need to take direction from the Auburn Police Department or Club Staff to be reunified with their Club members. All parents/guardians must present identification.
Communicable Disease Control
Parents/guardians need to notify Club staff if a Club member is diagnosed with a communicable disease and they have been in the Club facility, on a Club sponsored vehicle or field trip. A communicable disease is a serious illness that is capable of being transmitted to other persons. Staff will closely watch exposed Club members for signs of similar symptoms and all parents/guardians will be notified of the dates of exposure, incubation periods, symptoms and treatment recommendations for any disease Club members have been exposed to. This is done by sending out letters to parents.
We will not give out any information relating to the identity of the Club members who have the illness. In order for a Club member to be readmitted into the program, parents/guardians must provide a statement from their physician indicating the health of the Club member and that they are no longer contagious.
If we are informed that a Club member is HIV positive or has Hepatitis, we will only inform staff working directly with that youth. We will advise staff on safety precautions that need to be taken when dealing with blood spills, fecal matter or any other advice given by the parent/guardian. We will protect the identity of the Club member in all ways possible.
When a Club Member Becomes Ill
A comfortable area in isolation will be provided for the care of Club members who become ill with a headache, stomach ache, cold- or flu-like symptoms while at the Club. The Club member will be provided a mat with a sheet and/or blanket. The Club member’s parent or emergency contact person will be notified and asked to pick up the youth as soon as possible. Club members must be symptom-free for 24 hours before returning to the Club.
If a Club member vomits, he or she must be picked up by a parent/guardian or other authorized individual immediately. There are no exceptions. If a Club member has a urine or bowel movement in his/her pants, the parent/guardian or authorized individual will be called to pick up the youth. If it becomes a regular occurrence that the youth urinates or defecates in his/her pants, membership will be terminated until the problem is resolved.
IfamemberisonaClub-sponsoredfieldtripwhenthey vomitorbecomeillwithaheadache,stomachache, cold-orflu-likesymptoms,he/she mustbepickedupimmediatelyfromthelocationofthe fieldtrip.Therearenoexceptions.
WhenaClubMember Experiencesan AccidentorInjury
Parents/guardians will provide written permission for Club staff to call their family physician and indicate where to refer their youth for medical care in case of an emergency on their Membership Form. If a Club member is injured on- or off-site while in the care of the Boys & Girls Club, staff will take whatever steps necessary to obtain emergency medical care. We will protect the identity of the injured Club member whenever possible. These steps may include, but are not limited to, the following:
● Attempt to contact a parent/guardian by phone
● Attempt to contact the designated responsible persons (emergency contacts) by phone as noted on the youth’s Membership Form when a parent cannot be reached
● Contact your physician or medical center for assistance
● Call an ambulance or paramedic
● Have the youth taken to the designated emergency hospital in the company of a staff member. The Club will use East Alabama Medical Center unless told otherwise.
In event of injury, bleeding to the head or injury to the head, every attempt will be made to contact the parent/guardian. Club staff will contact a parent is unable to pick-up the child, the Club will transport the youth to the nearest medical facility. Under no circumstance will the Club release an injured child under the age of 16 into the care of another minor.
All staff members are trained and certified in CPR, first aid and in using an AED defibrillator. Minor wounds will be cleaned with antibacterial soap and water only and protected.
Parents/guardians will be notified of an incident by note or a call from Club staff depending on severity. The Club is not allowed to apply any salves or lotions unless a medical slip has been completed and is on file at each Clubhouse. All accidents will be recorded on an Injury Report Form and kept on file in our administration office. All records of accidents will be reviewed by the Club’s Director, Club Experience and CEO to determine that all possible preventative measures have been taken to preclude further incidents.
If an accident or injury occurs while youth are on a Club sponsored field trip, we will follow the same steps as listed above. When youth leave the Club, staff will take along the emergency information regarding each of the youth on the trip including Membership Forms containing this information, parent phone numbers and emergency contact information. A first aid kit will also be taken along on field trips.
Universal Precautions and Sanitary Provisions
Wetorsoiledclothingshallbechangedpromptly andplacedinaplasticbagtobetakenhomefor laundering.TheClubmemberwilldothisonhisor herownunlesshelpisneededfromastaffperson.If thestaffpersonassistswiththis,gloveswillbe worn.
StaffandClubmembersarerequiredtouseproper handwashingtechniques.Thisincludestheuseof soapandwarmwater,scrubbingbetweenfingers beforeandafterhandlingfoodandafterusingthe restroom.
Whenstaffdealwithanytypeofbodysecretion,they willweardisposablegloves.Whentheyaredone cleaningtheareawithasanitizingsolution,theywill placeallpapertowelingandglovesinaplasticbag andtieitshutbeforedisposingofitinthegarbage can.Youthwillbekeptoutoftheareaofbodily secretionsuntilitiscleanedupandsanitized.
Programsuppliesthatcomeintocontactwithanill Clubmemberoranunsanitarysourcewillbe disinfectedusingasanitizingsolutionandair-dried asneeded.
Tableswillbewashedwithsoapandwaterand thencleanedwithasanitizingsolutionbeforeand aftermealsandsnacksareserved.
100% of members whoweremembersoftheClub experiencedgradeprogressionlast year.
Medical Treatment
The completed Membership Form authorizes Club staff to seek medical treatment for a Club member, if necessary, and that any associated costs are the responsibility of the parents/ guardians. The Club does not provide medical insurance for Club members.
There is an Artificial Electronic Defibrillator (AED) installed in the Club, and staff have been trained on its use. In the event that we would need to use it on a Club member, every effort to notify the parents/guardians would be made as soon as the EMS is called.
Medication
Nostaffmemberisabletoadministermedicationto members.Nomembershouldhavemedicationinhis/her possessionattheclubforsafetyreasons.Staffarenot allowedtostoreoroverseemedicationattheClubhouse. *Theexceptiontothisismemberswhoneedtocarry AsthmaInhalers*
Child Abuse and Neglect
TheprimaryconcernofClubstaffisalwaysthesafetyandwellbeingofeachchild.Bylaw,theBoys&GirlsClubsof East Alabama’sBoardofDirectorsandallpersonnelarerequiredto reportanyyouthwhoappeartobeemotionally,physicallyor sexuallyabusedorneglectedtoChildProtectiveService. Suspicionofabuseorneglectshallbedocumentedand maintainedinaconfidentialrecord.Staffreceiveannualinservicetrainingaboutindicatorsofabuseorneglectand reporting.
Also,iftheAlabamaDepartmentofHumanResourcesorthe PoliceDepartmentrequestsaconversationwithoneofour Clubmembers,wewillcomplywiththatrequestwithno guaranteeofnotificationtotheparents/guardians.
Adult & Youth Expectations
Club members are expected to participate fully in programming and behave according to the rules in this handbook. The Club reserves the right to refuse, suspend or terminate membership of any youth if their behavior or attitude is disrespectful to staff, volunteers, or other members, or if their behavior does not allow them to function with others appropriately in our programs. Club membership is a privilege, not a right. If a major issue arises, staff will attempt to discuss the issue with a family member; however, staff may choose to terminate membership prior to that discussion. Youth who choose not to follow rules and expectations will not be able to participate in our program.
Adults and youth are expected to present themselves in a mature and respectful manner. They will be asked to leave the premises if said parent’s/guardian’s behavior is disrespectful toward staff, volunteers and/ or in front of our members.
It is not acceptable for adults or youth to argue with a staff member’s decision in a public setting. It is also not acceptable to use rude or inappropriate language with any of our staff, volunteers or other Club members. Failure to comply with this is a reason for the Director, Club Experience or CEO to exclude parents/guardians from entering the building or may include terminating the membership of the youth. If a parent has an issue they need to discuss, they should make an appointment with the Clubhouse Director or Director, Club Experience to have a discussion in an appropriate and respectful manner. Until this meeting occurs, parent/guardian may have another family members/adult pick up their child. Physical altercations that take place outside of the building, and include adults and/or youth, will result in immediate contact of the Auburn or Opelika Police Department and be handled strictly by police, not Club staff.
Examples of Unacceptable Behavior
• Harassing/threatening Club members, staff or volunteers.
• Use of inappropriate language and gestures.
• Inappropriate touching, hitting and fighting (includes play fighting).
• Presenting a danger to oneself or other Club members, staff or volunteers.
• Bringing weapons or dangerous articles to the Club.
• Bringing alcohol, drugs, vaporizers or tobacco, or drug paraphernalia to the Club.
• Vandalism of Club property.
• Going into off-limit areas of the Club.
• Disobeying rules established for field trips and vehiclerider safety.
• Leaving the group setting without permission.
• Stealing.
• Repeatedly ignoring or disobeying staff or volunteers’ direction.
• Refusal to be a willing and active participant in Club programs.
Bully Free Zone
The Club is a bully-free zone and strives to provide a safe, secure and respectful environment for all members in our facilities, on Club grounds, in our vehicles as well as at off-site Club sponsored activities and field trips. Bullying has a harmful social, physical and psychological impact on bullies, victims and bystanders. The Club consistently and vigorously addresses bullying. If your child is the target of bullying behavior or was witness to an incident of bullying at the Club, they are strongly encouraged to reach out to any Club staff to report the incident.
Code of Conduct
● Respect yourself.
● Practice the golden rule - treat others the way you would like to be treated.
● Be respectful of other Club members and their property.
● When asked for your attention, stop, look and listen.
● Keep your hands, feet and other objects to yourself.
● Play fairly and be honest.
● Applaud the efforts of others.
● Say only good things about others.
● Resolve disagreements in a positive way.
● Dress appropriately at all times.
● Running is reserved for the gym or outdoors playing fields
FOR MORE INFORMATION RELATED TO OUR SAFETY STANDARDS OR TO REPORT A CRITICAL INCIDENT PLEASE VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.BGCEASTAL.ORG
Behavior Support Policy
Behavior support begins with safety. When people do not feel physically safe and emotionally safe they may react to experiences from a place of survival(fear) rather than logic. Often this can lead them to make reactive decisions that are motivated by strong emotions, rather than behavior choices that are safe, healthy, and build relationships.
The 5 Guiding Principles of Behavior Support
• All behavior is communication
• All youth are in the process are learning about their own behavior. As youth learn to meet expectations they will often act in ways that are challenging or concerning.
• People interpret behavior based on culture, upbringing and experience.
• Behavior is an opportunity to learn how youth respond to their environments, and the skills they are working on in those spaces.
• Behavior support is a team approach that should include the youth, parents, mentors, elders, or other caregivers, and supportive adults in the youth's life.
Participate
Follow Mentor's Directions
Use Kind Words
Use appropriate voice level
Clean up
Use Supplies/Tools Correctly
Minor Behaviors
Hands and body parts to self
Use Equipment Correctly Walking Feet Pay Attention Be Patient Be Present in the Moment
In dealing with most behavioral situations, staff provide a 1-2-3 progressive approach in managing the behavior. It may be possible that step 1 and step 2 occur rapidly and synonymously depending on the scale of the action. Not all scenarios and incidents offer the opportunity for all three steps, however, whenever possible, all three steps will be utilized.
*Severity of incident may incur further consequences at the Director, Club Experience or CEO level.
Examples
• Talking out of turn/being disruptive
• Running
• Being present in non-supervised areas or areas not supposed to be
• Arguing with peers
• Not cleaning up after oneself.
• Not including all kids in games/activities
• Lying
• Tattling
• Name calling
• Inappropriate language
• Non-compliance with adults
• Not playing fairly
• Disruption in Clubs/Club meeting
• Not following room expectation (i.e. eating in a "no food" area)
• Technology/Cell Phone Violation
• Inappropriate use of equipment
Consequences
STEP 1 - Staff identify and verbally indicate to the member(s) the inappropriate or unwanted behavior/action. The staff will then reteach the member the expected behavior.
STEP 2 - Staff verbally indicate to the member(s) the inappropriate or unwanted behavior/action. The staff will then reteach the member the expected behavior and verbally indicate the choices the child has and consequences if the unwanted behavior/actioncontinues(thechildfillsouta StopandThinkandan incidentreportiscompleted by the staff).
STEP 3- Staff identify repeated behavior from above and state that they will enforce the previously stated consequence. This consists of the child(ren) filling out a Think Sheet and an incident report being completed by the staff.
Major Behaviors
**Severity of incident may incur further consequences at the Director, Club Experience or CEO level.
*If your child is suspended and not picked up within an hour after the parent/guardian was notified, they will have to take the following day off as well.
Examples
• Hitting/Fighting/Assault
• Stealing/Theft
• Harassment (sexually or racially derogatory remarks)
• Bullying
• Threats
• Vandalism
• Spitting on/at another person
• Involvement in hurting someone
• Defiance/Disrespect
• Major Disruptions
• Leaving premises without authorization
• Continual Minors (3)
• Inappropriate touching
• Weapons/Drugs (illegal or prescription) (situation may vary with severity)
Dress Code
Club members should dress comfortably and wear clothes that allow them to participate in typical Club activities and programs.
Inappropriate clothing of any kind will not be allowed in the Club. Members wearing clothes that are too short, too tight or too revealing or with questionable advertising, will be asked to change or leave immediately. This judgment will be left solely to the discretion of Club staff.
Hats, hoods, jackets and sunglasses are to be removed once in the building. There are cubbies designated in both the Auburn and Opelika Clubhouses where Club members can store personal belongings.
Shoes must be worn at all times. Flip flops, sandals and cleats are discouraged, as are any other open-toed shoes, for safety reasons. Club members may not be allowed to participate in certain activities, such as playing in the gym, if open-toed shoes are worn. The best advice is to wear tennis/walking shoes every day. During the summer months, the Club may take trips to the pool where sandals are more appropriate.
Consequences
1.One day suspension
2.Three day suspension
3.One Week
4.Expulsion from program
CEO’s Discretion
1. Immediate expulsion from the program.
In 2018, 536 members received scholarships to attend the Club. No child is turned away because they are unable to pay.
Personal Belongings
AllpersonalbelongingsbroughttotheCluboronClub sponsoredfieldtripsbyayoutharetheresponsibilityof thatyouth.Therearecubbiesdesignatedinboththe AuburnandPotter-DanielClubhouseswhereClub memberscanstorepersonalbelongings.
TheClubisnotresponsibleforlost,damagedorstolen items.Pleasediscourageyouthfrombringinganything totheCluboronfieldtripsthatisnotcompletely necessary,especiallymoney.Necessaryitems,suchas backpacksandjackets,shouldbeclearlymarkedwith theClubmember’sname.
Itemsthatarenotcollectedfromourlostandfoundina timelyfashion(2weeks)willbedonatedtoalocal charity.BikesriddentotheClubneedtohaveasturdy lockandchain.Clubstaffreservetherighttosearchany personalpropertyifthereisasafetyconcern.
Technology Policy
Purpose
The Boys & Girls Clubs of East Alabama is committed to providing a safe use of technology and on-line safety for members, staff, and volunteers. the acceptable use policy provides the framework for those safety practices and procedures.
MonitoredUse
BGCEAL reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, and review any personally owned device that is brought to the Club and Club owned and operated technology. Parents/guardians will be notified if such an inspection takes place. Parents/Guardians will be notified before such an inspection takes place and may be present, at their choice, during the inspection. Parents/Guardians may refuse to allow such inspections. If so, the member may be barred from bringing personally owned devices to the Club in the future.
Liability
The Boys & Girls Clubs of East Alabama shall not be held liable for users’ inappropriate use of electronic resources or violations of copyright restrictions, users’ mistakes or negligence, or costs incurred by users. The Boys & Girls Clubs of East Alabama shall not be responsible for ensuring the accuracy or reliability of any information found on external networks. The Boys & Girls Clubs of East Alabama cannot guarantee that access will always be available and is not responsible for any loss or corruption of data while using the Internet.
ChangingofPolicy
The Boys & Girls Clubs of East Alabama reserves the right to change the Acceptable Use Guidelines for Technology at any time. We may update this privacy policy to reflect changes to our information practices. If we make changes, then we will notify you prior to the changes becoming effective.
Guideline for Member Use: Members are prohibited from:
1. Engaging in any form of cyber-bullying, harrassment, or any other malicious behavior that would negatively impact another’s ability to participate in the Club communication.
2. Viewing, sending, or displaying offensive images or messages.
3. Sharing or reposting audio, video, or any material of or created by another member or youth development professional without that individual’s permission.
4. Sharing or using someone else’s password to access the computer, networks, social media platforms, or virtual platforms
5. Using the computer or network for non-youth development purposes.
6. Attempting to bypass the computer network security systems.
7. Trespassing in, deleting, or altering others’ folders, works, or files.
8. Using the computer in anyway that is disruptive to the youth development process (I.e. playing loud music or videos without headphones).
9. Damaging or modifying the computers, computer system, or computer network in any way.
10. Downloading any files to the computer.
11. Purchasing goods and services for personal use online.
12. Accessing any social media networking websites for non-youth development purposes.
Field Trips
The Club provides a variety of opportunities for members to participate in activities outside of the Club’s premises. Each trip requires a signed permission slip and payment of any necessary fees prior to departure. All Club rules extend to field trips. A parent/ guardian will be called to remove a Club member from the field trip, at their cost, if the Club member fails to follow the rules and general Club expectations for appropriate behavior found in this handbook. A parent/guardian must be available by telephone at all times during any Club-sponsored field trip in the event a staff member needs to contact them.
Transportation
• Van service is first-come, first-served, and is subject to fill up. Parents/guardians are responsible for completing the transportation form.
• Each member must be in the designated spot for pickup each day.
• BGCEAL will not be responsible for non-pickup of any members that are not in the designated pickup spot.
• The Club reserves the right to remove a member from van service for any of the following reasons:
o Ongoing behavior problems while riding the van
o Continuous failure to arrive at the designated pickup location or member does not use the van more than twice a week.
o Non payment of transportation fee
It is the parent's responsibility to notify BGCEAL if the member is using alternate transportation, had to stay after school, or is not in school that day.
o Please contact the Club by 12:00 p.m. on the same day so that the van is not waiting at the school. Failure to notify the Club may jeopardize your member’s ability to use the club’s transportation.
o In the event that a member has been removed from the transportation list, the parent will receive a written notice so that other transportation arrangements can be made.
VAN ROUTES
Route 1: Pick Elementary, Cary Woods Elementary
Route 2: Dean Road Elementary, Wrights Mill Road Elementary, Auburn Early Ed Route 3: Drake Middle School
SCHOOL BUS Auburn
Richland Elementary, Creekside Elementary, Yarbrough Elementary, East Samford, Auburn Jr. High, Auburn High
Potter Daniel (Opelika)
West Forest Intermidiate School, Opelika Middle School, Opelika High School
Volunteer Opportunities
Attention parents, guardians and friends of the Club: If you would like to give back to the Club through volunteering, we would love to have you! We are always looking for fun, energetic volunteers who enjoy making a positive difference in the lives of youth. Opportunities include things like playing games with members, creating crafts, helping with homework, preparing and serving meals or snacks and more. All volunteers need to have a volunteer application and current background check form on file to volunteer at the Club. Please contact the Director, Philanthropy & Engagement at 334-502-1311 if you are interested.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or concerns about any of the information found in this handbook, you may contact the Director, Club Experience. However, if you still feel that an issue or complaint has not been satisfactorily resolved, you may contact the Club's CEO. The telephone number for the Administration Office is 22 344-502-1311.
Boys & Girls Club Code
I believe in God and the right to worship, according to my own faith and religion.
I believe in America and the American way of life, in the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
I believe in fair play, honesty and sportsmanship.
I believe in my Boys & Girls Club, which stands for all these things.
Auburn Clubhouse 400 B-Boykin Street Auburn, Al 36832
334-502-1311, ext 107
Opelika Clubhouse 1610 Toomer Street
Opelika, Al 36801 334-502-1311, ext 108
Troy Clubhouse 715 Elm Street Troy, Al 334-502-1311
Visit our website at bgceastal.org or find us on Facebook,Instagram YouTube, Twitter or LinkedIn.
