Founded in 1919, Union League Boys & Girls Clubs enables young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. For more than 100 years, ULBGC has served as a trusted anchor in Chicago communities, providing safe spaces, caring mentors, and proven programs for youth who need them most. All programs are offered at no cost, ensuring access regardless of a family’s circumstances.

Today, ULBGC serves more than 13,000 youth annually across 10 active Club sites, primarily on Chicago’s South and West sides. These include neighborhood-based Clubs, a collaborative program serving justice-involved youth in partnership with the Cook County Juvenile Detention Center, and a 247-acre residential summer camp in Wisconsin. Together, these sites represent one of the most impactful youth development footprints in the region.

Young people are choosing ULBGC. We are the #1 largest Boys & Girls Clubs organization of 20 in Illinois and rank #6 nationally among 791 Clubs. We serve the largest number of teens in Illinois and the 3rd largest teen population nationally, reaching more than 20% of all Club youth in the state. ULBGC also leads Illinois in participation frequency, reflecting strong engagement, trust, and consistency.

Our impact is measurable and sustained. 98% of ULBGC seniors graduate high school on time, compared to Chicago’s average of 80%. In 2025 alone, ULBGC served more than 180,000 meals, addressing food insecurity while supporting healthy development. Youth outcomes consistently exceed Boys & Girls Clubs of America national averages: 82% of members report emotional safety, 77% report physical safety, 81% report strong adult connections, and 75% say they see clear opportunities for growth.

All programming is guided by 3 core pillars: Academic Success, Good Character and Leadership, and Health and Wellness. Youth participate in daily tutoring and Homework Power Hour, STEM and robotics, coding and IT entrepreneurship, arts enrichment, leadership development, workforce readiness, and trauma-informed wellness programming. Programs operate year-round, 5 - 6 days per week, and are delivered by trained, trusted youth development professionals who build lasting relationships with young people and families.

Union League Boys & Girls Clubs is where young people feel safe, supported, and inspired. It is a place to learn, to lead, and to belong, and a proven partner for organizations committed to building a stronger future.

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