Quality Afterschool Care | About Us | Boys & Girls Clubs of Johnson County

ABOUT

Every kid has what it takes. For youth of every race, ethnicity and gender

Boys & Girls Clubs of Johnson County – Our Club

Since 1937, we have been dedicated to serving youth in our community, starting with the Franklin Clubhouse. Over the years, we have expanded our reach to multiple locations, providing a safe and supportive environment for kids and teens.

During the school year, our doors are open Monday through Friday from 2:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., offering programs that inspire learning, leadership, and personal growth. In the summer, we extend our services with a full-day camp from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., ensuring that children have engaging and enriching experiences year-round.

Our Leadership

Boys & Girls Clubs of Johnson County is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors, providing strategic leadership and governance. Day-to-day operations are managed by a team committed to creating great futures for the youth we serve.

A Proud Part of Boys & Girls Clubs of America

Boys & Girls Clubs of Johnson County is part of a national network affiliated with Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA). The movement began in 1860 when a group of women in Hartford, Connecticut, sought to provide a positive alternative for boys roaming the streets.

In 1906, several Clubs came together to form the Federated Boys Clubs in Boston, marking the start of a nationwide initiative. Over time, the organization evolved:

1931 – Renamed Boys Clubs of America
1956 – Celebrated its 50th anniversary and received a U.S. Congressional Charter
1990 – Renamed Boys & Girls Clubs of America to reflect the inclusion of girls in its mission

What Makes Boys & Girls Clubs Special?

Four key characteristics define the impact of Boys & Girls Clubs of Johnson County and set us apart:

Dedicated Youth Facility – A safe, neighborhood-based space designed exclusively for youth programs and activities.
Open Daily – Accessible after school and during summer, providing kids with positive and productive opportunities.
Professional Staff – Led by trained youth development professionals, serving as role models and mentors. Volunteers play a crucial role in offering additional support.
Affordable & Inclusive – Membership dues are kept low, ensuring that all youth, regardless of their background, can access our programs.

At Boys & Girls Clubs of Johnson County, we are committed to empowering young people with the tools, resources, and guidance they need to build great futures.

Learn More

In 1920, Franklin High School captured the media limelight and made history as an organization called the Franklin Wonder Five. From 1920 through 1922, this high school basketball team won the Indiana State Basketball Championship three years in a row, cementing their place in Indianapolis basketball history as well.

After the team's unequaled high school successes, their coach Ernest "Griz" Wagner decided to move up to Franklin College and took most of the original Franklin Wonder Five members with him. The Wonder Five put fifty wins in a row over a period of two years, challenging and demolishing bigger, stronger teams.

The team was hailed in the papers as the "best collegiate team in Hoosierdom, the, basketball center of the world". The Franklin Wonder Five took home the Indiana State Collegiate Champion trophy for the 1923 & 1924, as well as the National Collegiate Championship award in 1923, during their undefeated season.

The Franklin Wonder Five team during their high school championship days were made up of now immortalized players Burl Friddle, Ralph Hicks, Paul White, Robert Vandiver, Sima Comer, Johnny Gant, Harold Borden, Pete Keeling, and the team's coach Ernest "Griz" Wagner. The team adopted the nickname the "Grizzly Cubs" to permanently honor their wonder-coach. The mascot is still used by Franklin Community High School and Franklin College.