Montana youth clubs offer the state's teens numerous opportunities for personal development, making a difference in the community, and just plain having fun.
Available Montana Youth Clubs
Clubs available to teens in the state encompass organizations dedicated to sports, community service, scholarship, and more.
Montana High School Rodeo Association
The Montana High School Rodeo Association is designed for those students who like to take advantage of the state's landscape and pioneer heritage by participating in the sport. In 2007, more than 10,000 students participated in rodeo events. Student officer positions also provide the chance for rodeo competitors to develop leadership skills outside of the ring.
Montana Youth Soccer
Montana Youth Soccer offers programs for players of all ages. Teen programs include competitive teams for students looking to participate in soccer outside of their school's sports program. Serious players can take advantage of the Olympic Development Program.
Sierra Club
The Montana Chapter of the Sierra Club plans yearly Student Environmental Leadership Training Programs to help teens learn how to foster environmental activism in their hometowns. The Sierra Student Coalition is the student arm of the national organization, and graduates of the training program may wish to create formal chapters of the group at their high schools.
Montana Youth Leadership Forum
The Montana Youth Leadership Forum provides important training to high school students with disabilities. The intent of the program is to send participants back to their schools with the skills necessary to become local role models. Teens also learn more about disability issues and support services.
Student Government
Most high schools have some form of student government, which may encompass a student council and officers for each grade level. Student government focuses on improving high school life. Activities may involve planning dances and spirit weeks, participating in campus beautification projects, and influencing school policies and procedures. Students with fully-elected student councils should look for opportunities to run for office in the spring in order to participate the following year.
National Honor Society
National Honor Society is a student organization with a long history. Since 1921, the group has been recognizing high-achieving students who can demonstrate scholarship, leadership, service, and character. However, being inducted in the club is more than an honor. Local clubs typically focus on community service efforts, such as tutoring their peers and younger students.
Key Club
Key Club is an international service organization sponsored by Kiwanis International. The Montana District is made up of more than 40 clubs at high schools across the state. Its international scope offers members unique opportunities, including scholarships, conferences, and the ability to gain leadership skills at the district and international levels. However, it's the chance to make a difference in their local communities that keeps members involved.
Start Your Own
If your school or community doesn't have an organization you'd be interested in joining, consider starting your own. Whether it's a gay-straight alliance or a knitting club, all it takes is a few like-minded individuals to form a new club. Check with your school for regulations and paperwork concerning starting a new school group, or speak with the staff at a local meeting place, such as the library, about the possibility of organizing a community-based club.
Whether you're interested in horseback riding or cleaning up parks, Montana youth clubs give you the perfect opportunity to gain new knowledge and skills in an enjoyable way.
