About



Mission


To inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.



Club membership demographics


Calendar year 2022 data:

  • 262 members
  • Members by age:
    46% – 6-9 years old
    34% – 10-12 years old
    15% – 13-15 years old
    5% – 16-18 years old
  • Members by race (self-identified):
    40% – White
    31% – American Indian/Alaskan Native
    24% – Multiracial
    2% – Black or African American
    3% – Other
  • Members by household demographic:
    36% from single-parent households
    70% from families qualify for free or reduced lunch

As a leading nonprofit out-of-school-time provider within the Bemidji community, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Bemidji Area (BGCBA) is part of a national Movement of Boys & Girls Clubs positioned to ensure that young people achieve academic success. Boys & Girls Clubs partner with their local communities to create empowering environments of belonging for kids and teens to develop meaningful relationships, learn critical skills and ultimately reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. Our Bemidji Club is a license-exempt certified childcare setting serving youth in grades 1-12 during out-of-school time, both afterschool and offering a full-day program during summer break, to allow greater flexibility to working families.


Our Community


Bemidji, the county seat of Beltrami County in rural Minnesota, serves as the cultural and economic hub of Beltrami County, and stands at the crossroads of three American Indian Reservations in Minnesota (Red Lake Nation, Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, and White Earth Nation). Nestled within this community are notable institutions such as Sanford Health, a medical hub providing culturally congruent healthcare, and Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical College, providing accessible higher education for the region. 

Acknowledging economic realities, Bemidji, with nearly 25% of its residents facing poverty, is committed to fostering an inclusive environment. The city strives to bridge disparities, exemplifying resilience and community spirit. Despite confronting challenges in child maltreatment (50.9 per 1,000) and out-of-home care rates, the City of Bemidji and several nonprofit organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club are actively working in partnership towards ensuring the well-being of its youth. (See “What We Do” page for more information about partnerships the Club has to serve youth and families) 

Beyond numerical disparities, Bemidji’s downtown renaissance, thriving arts scene, and convenient air service showcase a city on the rise. Its economic prowess aligns with its status as a four-season destination for outdoor enthusiasts. 

In essence, Bemidji’s narrative is one of dynamic transformation, where challenges coexist with progress, creating a sought-after destination for both residents and visitors alike.


What we do


Learn more about what we do. Then meet our staff and board.