Founded in 1968 by Lou Dantzler, Challengers Boys & Girls Club has developed into an award winning, nationally-recognized youth organization. Our mission is to promote the optimal social development for at-risk youth ages 6-17. We accomplish this by providing constructive and positive alternatives to alienation and juvenile delinquency through comprehensive programs focusing on: health and physical education; personal and educational development; parent involvement; cultural enrichment; and various social and recreational activities – all designed to motivate, educate and elevate the children and teens of South Los Angeles to become productive, caring, responsible members of society. Our programs include: • Daily sports and recreation activities, including tennis instruction and tournaments, basketball, soccer, track, game rooms, fitness games, flag football, dance, aerobics, and more; • Homework assistance and educational support, including tutoring, mentoring and college prep; • Leadership programs designed to build character and self-esteem; • Healthy Lifestyle programs such as Mind Body Soul, Home Economics and Community Garden; • No cost, comprehensive Dental Care through our Smile Shoppe Dental Clinic; • Arts & Cultural programs, including field trips to museums and cultural events; • Job & Life Skills training; • Radio & Video production programs; • Educational opportunities through the local Charter Middle School named in honor of Lou Dantzler; • An Aviation program that prepares youth for careers within the airline industry; and • A physical fitness Satellite program at St. Odilia School, serving 270 children in K-8th grades.