Our Unique Approach

The approach utilized by Boys Hope Girls Hope has several unique elements that make it the only program of its kind in the country.

The program:

• places children in non-institutional, family-like homes staffed with live-in residential counselors
• supports children financially and emotionally through college and beyond
• provides children with long-term adult relationships and positive mentoring
• provides referral and follow-up services to children not qualified for our program
• offers after-care services to youth who are able to return to their families
• is funded exclusively through private sector donations

One of the most important aspects of Boys Hope Girls Hope is the close association of parents with the program. Parent involvement is highly valued, reaffirming the conviction that parents are the first and most important teachers of their children. Parental participation in their child's activities and special events within the program, as well as support of program goals and values, ensures the best possible experience for the child.

• The parent or legal guardian of the Boys Hope Girls Hope student is a partner with the program in the parenting of the child.
• Parents maintain custody of their child.
• Boys Hope Girls Hope maintains regular contact with families of children in the program through scheduled conferences and telephone contacts. The staff meets briefly with the parent before and after each home visit.
• Students typically visit home one weekend per month, and perhaps more, depending on the student's situation. Extended visits occur during school holidays and within the summer break. There are no restrictions on contact by phone, letter or e-mail. Special visits can be arranged outside of the established visiting schedule.
• Parents will be informed in advance of special events and activities involving their child and are encouraged to participate.
• Parents are welcome to communicate with program staff regarding any concerns they may have regarding their child's needs or the services provided by Boys Hope Girls Hope.

Impact

Nationwide:

• since 1991, 100% of the program's high school graduates have gone on to college
• approximately 75% of BHGH high school students achieve at least a 3.0 GPA
• over 80% of the scholars participate in community service
• over 90% of the scholars actively worship their faith
• almost 90% of the scholars participate in an extracurricular activity
• Program alumni have been accepted at some of the finest post-secondary institutions in the U.S., including the Air Force Academy, Boston College, Dartmouth College, Georgetown University, Harvard Law School, Loyola University, Michigan State University, St. Louis University, University of Missouri, and West Point, among others.
• Boys Hope Girls Hope alumni are currently serving their communities as doctors, ministers, police officers, teachers, high school principals, engineers, managers and military officers.