According to researchers, the amount of teens who commit suicide or self harm has risen drastically within the past decade. Teen depression has become a widespread problem across America, with 20% of teens experiencing depression at some point before reaching adulthood.

Researchers are not sure of what triggers it and different factors have been blamed. A family history of depression, seasonal affective disorder, domestic abuse, alcoholism, anxiety etc, are all suspected in the manifestation of teen depression, which often spirals into much worse conditions.

Help Needed

How can we rescue our teens? How can we curb this disturbing trend? With most American parents working at least 49 hours a week, it's no wonder they can't find time to spend with their kids. Sometimes, all the kid needs is an encouraging word or a hug, but getting them is harder these days.

At school, at-risk kids tend to 'tune out' from whatever is going on around them. After-school programs may be the only time these kids may have quality one-on-one time with an adult. If they have someone to talk to, they probably won't feel as lonely. But getting a good program is one thing, getting them to attend the program is another.

A Century-old Solution

The motto of the Boys and Girls Club proudly proclaims that they want to 'enable all young people...to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.' Pretty tall order, but they have stuck with it for the past 100 years and seen tremendous results across the USA.

In 1999, when they first started the program in Santee, they worked from temporary trailers parked on the Pepper Drive and Cajon Park school grounds. But as they successfully helped more children develop leadership skills and healthy habits, they soon found that they needed a larger, permanent site.

In 2003, in partnership with the city of Santee and a few generous donors, the Club began construction of the new clubhouse. Located at 8820 Tamberly Way, south of Mission Gorge Road, the 23,000-square-foot facility includes a full sized gym, a learning center for study and homework, a computer hub and a games room equipped with high-tech home theater and sound system.

All-Round Development

Apart from physical activities, the Club also offers arts/crafts and programs that influence the growth and welfare of its members. Focusing on developing character, leadership, education, career, health & life skills, the Club helps to inspire and enable all young people. Till date, 57% of former members report that the Boys And Girls Club Of Santee helped save their lives.

The Club is open to kids aged 6-18, and is open when it's needed the most i.e. after school and during school breaks. Contact them here for more information.

Worried about Playing Hooky?

Transportation is provided by the Santee School District, and is available throughout the school year. Contact the Clubhouse for pricing and availability of space. With pick up and drop off locations at Santee's nine elementary schools, you can be sure your kid wont miss the bus.

Don't leave your child at risk during the holidays. Enroll them in the Boys and Girls Club where they'll interact constructively with other kids, and be supervised while you're at work. The summer camp closed on September 2nd, but by October 16th, registration for the fall Camp begins. Don't miss this opportunity.

In Santee, we are proud to have the Boys & Girls Clubs of East County, where our youth can grow and develop in a healthy and positive environment.