The Boys & Girls Club of Venice's Torch Club leadership program for 11- to 13-year-olds has been honored with a Staples Torch Club Award from the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Staples Foundation.

Venice’s Torch Club was recognized for excellence in health and fitness programming for which it took third place and a $500 cash prize. 

“It’s great that we won,” said Aileen Martinez, the marketing and development director for the Boys & Girls Club of Venice.

Torch Clubs focus on four areas: education; health and fitness; service to the club and community; and social recreation. The mini-clubs elect their own officers and plan their own activities.

Local Torch Club members embarked on a concerted effort to let go of negative attitudes, unkind acts and unhealthy behavior. The program taught anger management and incorporated a weekly beach fitness event.

“The creativity, talent and dedication displayed by the young people who develop and implement these projects is truly inspiring,” said Amy Shanler, director of community relations for Staples.

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