A national awareness day to celebrate the life-changing impact Boys and Girls Club (BGC) Okanagan, and clubs in the communities across Canada have on young people and their families, is set for the end of this week.
BGC Club Day is Friday, June 2.
On BGC Club Day the clubs will celebrate the opportunities they create for young people.
In Penticton, the lights outside the South Okanagan Events Centre will be in BGC green;
In Vernon, the Polson Park fountain will be flowing green water;
Staff across the Okanagan have created fun activities to celebrate with club members including carnival games, a family recreation night, an event highlighting different cultures and traditions, a visit from an interactive travelling theatre group and more.
“We are more than after school programs,” said Jeremy Welder, BGC Okanagan CEO. “We are advocates for children and youth and a safe place to find belonging. We provide programs to support positive outcomes in self-expression, mental health and recreation programs, food for kids and families and so much more.”
Formerly known as Okanagan Boys and Girls Clubs, BGC Okanagan has more than 50 service locations where they support young people through daycare, preschool, after school care, recreation, youth and family programs.
In a recent survey of club children and youth about how their time has impacted them it was found that because of a club; 85 per cent of kids are more confident, 87 per cent of kids make better choices and 91 per cent of kids are more connected to people they like.
“At BGC Okanagan we want to nurture a safe and supportive environment where kids can experience new opportunities, build positive and healthy relationships and gain essential life skills, all while being respected, feeling a sense of belonging and having the support to achieve their dreams,” said Welder. “We know the journey isn’t easy, but it can be achieved with patience, determination and the proper guidance. We are here to provide that guidance.”
BGC Okanagan is inviting everyone to be part of the unbelievable impact they have in the Okanagan. Whether you’re a former or current Club member, a BGC Okanagan supporter or have kids who go to the Club, share your story on social on June 2, with the hashtag #BGCClubDay and tag @BGCOkanagan.
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