FAQs

How many members do the Boys & Girls Clubs of East County serve?
The Clubs have over 1,000 members at its four (4) full-service Clubhouses and one (1) Teen Center in the communities of El Cajon, Lakeside, La Mesa and Santee.
 
Why is membership so inexpensive?
We keep our fees manageable, so all children in our community have the opportunity to become a member of the BGCEC. As a nonprofit organization, donations from individuals, corporations and private foundations subsidize the fees the BGCEC charges for membership, transportation, program and camp fees.
 
How old does a kid have to be to become a member?
Membership is open to all children aged 6-18. Six-year-olds must be in the first grade and have a birth certificate or other proof of identification (for age verification) at the time of registration. Eighteen-year-olds must still be enrolled in high school to be members.  Membership is valid from June 1st to May 31st. 
 
What does the Boys & Girls Clubs of East County offer to kids?
Our sites provide safe and supportive environments for children aged 6 to 18, offering age-appropriate programming and caring, trained staff. We support our members’ academic, social, and emotional development through five core program areas: Character and Leadership, Education and Career Development, Health and Life Skills, The Arts and Sports, Fitness, and Recreation. Our facilities include gymnasiums, STEM learning labs, and clean, well-maintained buildings that reflect the pride and care we invest in every child we serve.
 
What services do the Boys & Girls Clubs of East County provide?
BGCEC has proudly served the youth of El Cajon, Lakeside, La Mesa, and Santee since 1961. With over six decades of experience in delivering high-quality, accessible youth development programs, the Clubs offer school bus transportation (at select locations), camps during school breaks and a safe, engaging and interactive place for children to learn and grow every day after school.

Is the organization hiring? How do I apply for a job?
The Boys & Girls Clubs of East County are looking to fill part-time Recreation Aide positions at multiple sites. Applicants should apply if they meet the following minimum requirements: 
1. At least 18 years of age
2. A high school diploma or equivalent
3. Pass a Background check*
4. Pass a drug test*
5. Have a negative TB test.* Please note, applicants requiring chest x-rays are not eligible for hire.
If you meet these minimum requirements, please click here for a job description and directions on how to apply.
*All tests paid for by the Boys & Girls Clubs of East County upon employment offer, as well as CPR/1st Aid certification (required within 60 days of hire).

Do the Boys & Girls Clubs of East County have summer programs?
The Clubs offer Summer Day Camp from 8am-6pm, Monday through Friday during summer. Please check your Club’s Summer Program here.
 
If I register my child for membership at one Clubhouses, can they attend any of the BGCEC’s Clubhouses?
No, our Clubs all have exclusive memberships; meaning, a child’s membership is only valid for the Clubhouse for which they were registered.
 
What does an average day at the Club look like?
Around 2:00pm members arrive at their Club by school bus, foot or are dropped off. They’re greeted by our professional staff and check in. After check in, it’s on! Members select which activities that appeal the most to them; honing their skills in the games room, completing homework in the Homework Room, burning energy in the gymnasium, expressing themselves in the Art room or working on project-based learning in the STEM Lab!  The Daily Schedule is posted at every Club and lists each hour’s activities, the staff running the activity and the room it is taking place.