It's not easy being a kid these days. Peer pressure and outside distractions make staying on the right path a challenge. This isn't only in economically deprived areas. The after-school hours for all kids ages 7-17 are tough, when many find themselves looking for ways to fill their down time. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Justice, half of all violent juvenile crime occurs in the after-school hours, between 2 and 8 p.m.

Boys & Girls Clubs of America serve nearly 5 million children every year. In Broward County alone, there are more than a dozen clubs dedicated to providing a safe, fun place for kids to grow and learn after school. By offering programs that encourage the positive use of leisure time, we are helping save the lives of kids throughout South Florida. Many of these same programs are developing an appreciation for the environment, building technical expertise and fostering social skills that are helping shape the personalities of tomorrow's leaders.

These programs are a necessity, but they come at a cost. To keep the cost as low as we do for parents, we need your help. Your support is required to keep our programs going. Pledging your support will help maintain a safe haven for kids who either have no place to go, or simply need a more constructive, affordable option.