Youth Programs (10 Yrs - 18 Yrs)

Torch Club gives youth, ages 9-12, the opportunity to develop their leadership skills through service to their Youth Center and community. Torch Club members learn to work together to plan and implement activities in four areas: education, health and fitness, service to club and community, and social recreation.

For youth ages 13-18. Members consist of teens who determine policy and procedure needs as well. They acquire character and leadership skills, explore careers and educational opportunities, provide service to their center and community, learn about the free enterprise system, learn about and practice an appreciation for the diversity in others while enhancing their social skills. Members are elected to serve as president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer within the club. Teen Council members advocate for all youth on the installation and brief senior leadership on teen issues and concerns.

The Congressional Award is the United States Congress' award for young Americans. It is non-partisan, voluntary, and non-competitive. The program is open to all 14 to 23-year-olds. Participants earn bronze, silver, and gold Congressional Award certificates and bronze, silver, and gold Congressional Award medals. Air Force Youth Programs coordinates the Congressional Award, which recognizes excellence in initiative, achievement, and service among young persons. Youth are challenged to set goals in the following:

• Voluntary Public Service
• Personal Development
• Physical Fitness
• Expedition or Exploration

The Youth of the Quarter/Year Program is one of many programs available through the center’s affiliation with the Boys and Girls Clubs of America.

Each quarter, youth have an opportunity to demonstrate their achievements in home and family leadership, moral character, community, leadership and service, life goals and obstacles overcome.

Quarterly winners compete for SJAFB Youth of the Year and a chance to compete at higher levels to include regional and national competitions. The rewards of the program are vast, from personal growth and the opportunity to represent the base community to college scholarships.

Are you PCSing to or from Seymour Johnson AFB with children? Youth ages 5-18 may make new friends and connect with kids their age by signing up for a pen pal and learning about the base before arriving. (Under 18 with parent’s permission).