Chatham-Kent has a new agency to serve local youth.
Formerly known as the Boys and Girls Club, the long-time Chatham-based agency officially became part of the BGC Club earlier this summer.
However, its mission of helping local youngsters by providing supportive spaces and opportunities will remain the same, according to board chair Sarah Burk.
“This new addition to Chatham-Kent will allow youth an opportunity to engage in safe activities that are designed to support their ongoing development, whether it be through recreation, educational learning opportunities or supporting their mental health,” said Burk in a media release.
BGC Chatham-Kent is now part of BGC Canada. In 2021, the national organization rebranded from the traditional Boys and Girls Club to modernize and remove gender from the name. It offers a host of programs to assist with overcoming barriers, building positive relationships and developing confidence and skills for life.
According to Burk, the rebranded club has already started serving the community by providing a lower cost summer camp option, as well as an in-school program to teach classes about the importance of collaboration, respecting others and the importance of being healthy and active.
The new organization was founded with the support of the Chatham-Kent Community Foundation, South Kent Wind Community Fund, Peach Physio, Chatham Honda and Riverview Gaming Centre.
Individuals or community groups that would to assist BGC Chatham-Kent can access bgcck.com/donate or call 519-351-1582.
Some of the services that were previously associated with now closed Big Brothers, Big Sisters have been blended into BGC C-K.
