This week marks the official start of summer—and here at Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco’s Excelsior Clubhouse, we can already feel the energy building.

At Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco (BGCSF), summer is a verb. It’s about movement, momentum, and joyful, purposeful action. As a Clubhouse Director, I have the privilege of witnessing our members' summer firsthand. It’s when our members explore the city through field trips, create bold works of art, play new sports, discover career paths, and connect with leadership opportunities. 

Moments That Matter

One of our most anticipated events every summer is Water Day—we transform the Clubhouse into a mini water park and indoor carnival. 

‍

‍

Last year, we welcomed 335 youth to Water Day, including members from our partners at San Francisco Community School Club and the Springer Clubhouse in Sunnydale. The excitement was electric and full of joy. Events like these take a lot of planning, but seeing the smiles on kids’ faces, hearing their laughter, and watching them connect with other members from across the city? That’s what makes it all worth it.

Another incredible highlight is our weeklong partnership with the San Francisco Ballet. Through this collaboration, Excelsior youth have the rare opportunity to explore classical ballet, hip-hop dance, and African drumming in a weeklong intensive led by professional artists.

‍

‍

Every day, youth move with intention, practice with discipline, and express themselves in new ways. At the end of the week, they perform for their families and fellow Club members—a moment that fills our gym with applause and pride. 

Perhaps the most transformative experience for many of our youth every year is the chance to attend Camp Mendocino. Set on 2,000 acres of redwood forest, Camp gives our members the chance to disconnect from their daily routines and reconnect with themselves and nature. They climb ropes courses, hike and bike trails, perform at the amphitheater, and build lasting friendships. 

‍

‍

The shift we see in our campers when they return—from nervous first-timers to confident leaders—is something we never take for granted. Camp is more than just a getaway. It’s a gateway to growth, confidence, and independence. 

‍

‍

Looking Ahead: What Excites Me For This Summer

This summer, I’m especially excited for our teens. Through our Leaders-In-Training program and partnerships like MYEEP, our older members will take on real responsibility—helping lead activities, mentor younger members, and gain workforce-readiness experience. We’re also expanding career exposure opportunities through field trips to visit  organizations like Guittard Chocolate Company and Royal Auto Group, giving teens the chance to see what’s possible beyond high school.

‍

‍

Excelsior youth will also be heading out on exciting field trips to Pier 39, a hike at Lands End, and to the Exploratorium—each offering the chance to experience something new and meaningful outside our Clubhouse walls and their everyday neighborhood. 

‍

‍

I continue to be really proud of our continued participation in Junior Giants, a Citywide program that brings together hundreds of youth from Clubhouses across San Francisco for a season of baseball, sportsmanship, and fun. It’s more than just a game—our members learn teamwork, perseverance, and how to lift each other up both on and off the field.

‍

‍

Here at the Clubhouse, we’re also gearing up to host one of our Citywide favorites: our STEM Fair, where youth will showcase their creativity and problem-solving skills through hands-on science challenges. This event brings big energy, big smiles, and moments of real pride.

There’s so much to look forward to—and even more to celebrate along the way.

Join the Journey!

The Excelsior Clubhouse is one of many BGCSF Clubs that are open for summer programming across the city. I’d love for you to follow @BGCSF on social media to get a firsthand look at how all members will explore, move, grow, learn, and play this summer season!  

Follow the Fun on Our Social Media!

‍

Michael Gomez
Clubhouse Director, Excelsior Clubhouse
Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco

‍