About Us
Who We Are
For more than 100 years, BGC’s 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. We are now called BGC Olds and Area as we embrace the fact that we serve many young people of all ages, backgrounds, and identities.
Quality After School Programs
BGC of Canada (BGCC) 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. Our association of over 99 Clubs located in 650 community service locations across Canada are in neighbourhoods where they are most needed including, large city centres, remote rural communities and First Nations Reserves.
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 a BGC is often a life-changing experience. Children can build healthy, supportive relationships with caring adult role models, having deeply positive influence on the life path they choose. Clubs also encourage healthy, respectful relationships with peers and family members.
We have trained, dedicated staff and volunteers. They provide children and youth, from pre-school to young adulthood, with programs in physical recreation, nutrition, technology, the arts, personal development and more.
Affordable, Accessible and Reliable
We 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 behaviour
Many Clubs provide meals, family support programs, emergency shelter and other supports to children, youth and families in need. Club fees are affordable and are subsidized or waived for families in need.
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 help prepare children and youth for life by helping them to discover and develop their abilities and skills, building confidence and competence.
Our staff also builds 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.
Guiding Principles
Every individual is a valued part of the Club whose unique strengths, interests and personalities are acknowledged, respected and appreciated by all. All individuals are treated fairly and their personal safety is a priority.
We strive to ensure that all individuals have access to barrier free supports and resources that achieve positive outcomes. We empower our participants by encouraging them to develop life skills, healthy lifestyles and a sense of social responsibility. We promote growth, positive change, and self-advocacy.
All staff and volunteers model honesty, fairness, positive attitudes, professional ethics, cooperation and respect for self and others. We treat each other as valued colleagues and are mindful in our actions and words. We encourage life-long learning and professional development. All staff and volunteers adhere to agency policies, accreditation/licensing standards and all provincial/federal laws that govern our society.
We collaborate, advocate and partner with our community to create healthy solutions that address the needs of children, youth and their families.
We are responsible stewards of our Club resources in order to achieve our mission and vision.
Facts
BGC of Canada provides its member Clubs with:
* valuable support services
* national programs and partnerships for children and youth
* quality standards
* stimulate the development and growth of Clubs from coast to coast
Who We Serve:
13% are 6 years and under
54% are 6 – 12 years of age
26% are 13+ years of age
57% are from low income families
43% are from single parent families
10% are Aboriginal children and youth
14% have special needs (learning and/or physical)
11% are new immigrants to Canada