History
BGC Canada
For more than 100 years, Clubs in communities across Canada have been helping young people to discover, develop and achieve their best potential as they grow to become Canada’s future adults, citizens and leaders, by engaging them in activities that challenge and help them develop healthy minds and bodies.
Quality After School Programs
BGC Canada is a leading provider of quality after school and out-of-school programs to children and youth that support the healthy physical, educational and social development of more than 200,000 young people and their families in Canada each year.
We are one of the largest youth-serving agencies in Canada. Nearly three million young Canadians have played, learned and developed essential life skills through our safe, caring Club environments and enriching programs.
Life-Changing Programs and Relationships
Belonging to BGC is often a life-changing experience. Children can build healthy, supportive relationships with caring adult role models, having a deeply positive influence on the life path they choose. Clubs also encourage healthy, respectful relationships with peers and family members.
Each Club location has trained, dedicated staff and with programs in physical recreation, nutrition, technology, the arts, personal development and more.
Affordable, Accessible and Reliable
Clubs provide families with regularly available, structured, supervised services. Programs are offered primarily during the after-school hours when studies have shown that young people are most vulnerable to victimization and becoming drawn into anti-social behaviours. Many Clubs also offer programs during evenings and weekends.
Club fees are affordable and are subsidized or waived for families that can benefit from a fee reduction or elimination. Clubs are open to all regardless of race, religion, social or economic status. Wherever possible, Clubs offer accessible buildings for those who are disabled.
Learning and Skills Development Focus
Clubs prepare children and youth for life by helping them to discover and develop their abilities and skills, building confidence and competence.
BGC staff also build self-esteem in kids by empowering youth to help shape programs and share their ideas. Through these opportunities, youth are given the chance to develop life and leadership skills and to learn how to contribute to Clubs and their communities.
Vision, Mission and Values
Opportunity Changes Everything
Our Vision
Our vision is that all children and youth discover and achieve their dreams and are healthy, successful and active participants in society.
Mission Statement
To provide a safe and supportive place where children and youth can experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships and develop confidence and skills for life.
Core Values
Belonging
We welcome everyone in a safe, accepting environment based on belonging and positive relationships.
Respect
We ensure that everyone – children, youth, families, volunteers, staff – is heard, respected, valued and treated fairly.
Empowerment and Support
We encourage and support every child and youth to play, learn and grow to achieve their dreams.
Working Together
We work together with young people, families, volunteers, our communities and government.
Speaking Out
We speak out for children, youth and families so that we can make our world better.