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Message from the Executive Director
Greetings!
An incredible thing is happening as I write this, Varvara, a rare western grey whale, is passing the West Coast of Vancouver Island as she rushes home to Russia from the Baja Peninsula at a speed of about 160 kilometres a day. We know this because, to the amazement of scientists, this whale's tag is still measuring activity after 13,000 km!
At Boys & Girls Clubs we have our own 'whale tales' to tell with our second Whale Derby on Saturday June 9th. Our whales may not travel that far, but they make a whale of a difference for kids and families in our community.
On a more serious note we commend the Representative for Children and Youth's report on the Schoenborn family tragedy and urge changes in all of our systems to protect children and families in a sustainable and appropriate manner.
Finally, a young man by the name of Ryan Thirlwall walked for 28 hours from Nanaimo IN A PINK TUTU to raise funds for Boys & Girls Clubs. Ryan attended our programs and is now a father who is grateful for the relationships he built here. In Ryan's words, "I love their organization and hold them close to my heart and feel that it's my turn to give back to them after so much they have done for me."
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Ryan arriving at 1240 Yates St.
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The whales are back!
Get your tickets online now for your chance to win great prizes!
Rite of Me participants enjoying the outdoors.
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Boys and Girls Club Services of Greater Victoria1240 Yates Street,
Victoria, British Columbia, V8V 3N3 Phone: (250) 384-9133
Fax: (250) 384-9136
Email: info@bgcvic.org
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March 22, 2012 - Issue #2
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What's New?
Tutu Walk for Hope
When Ryan Thirlwall heard about Pink Shirt Day he decided to do more than just wear a pink shirt, he made a commitment to do something significant to raise awareness about the serious issue of bullying - walk from Nanaimo to Victoria, in a pink tutu! So far he has raised almost $2,000 to support our anti-bullying programs and the donations are still rolling in. You can watch CTV's coverage of the walk or read about it in the Goldstream Gazette. You can also show your support by donating online and specifying that your gift is for the 'Tutu Walk for Hope'.
Warning: extreme positive experiences may occur at Boys & Girls Club's Summer Camps
If your child is adventurous and loves being outdoors, then the Outdoor Adventure Camp at the Outdoor Centre is perfect for them. The camp runs for 3 weeks in July and August and includes archery, canoeing, climbing and orienteering. Or try the Urban Adventure Camp, a licensed camp offering fun where the city meets the outdoors, plus a Youth Outdoor Leadership Camp for teens to develop their skills as outdoor recreation leaders. Registration is open now so don't miss out!
Youth in Parks
A new partnership between Boys & Girls Clubs, BC Parks and the CRD has led to 'Youth in Parks' for youth who love our parks and want to improve their outdoor leadership skills. The program kicks off with a Youth Leadership Summit at the Outdoor Centre on April 22. There will also be an opportunity for youth to join an Advisory Council and host an event in September. Read more about this and please share with other youth in the community!
Support from the Butchart Gardens The newest 'Little Flipper' sponsor of the Wild About Whales Derby is The Butchart Gardens. They made an additional gift to the Foundation to fund program operations. This generous donation will support programs for children and youth in Central Saanich. It means so much to us when a local business 'gives where they live'. Find out more about our innovative programs in the Central Saanich community or find out how your business can be part of Wild About Whales 2012! |
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Spotlight on...
Rite of Me
Rite of Me is a self-esteem building exercise disguised as an outdoor activities program. Hosted at our Outdoor Centre, girls 10 - 13 years old take part in archery, rock climbing, the low ropes course, hiking, 'The Amazing Race', cooking, team building games and crafts under the mentorship of dedicated staff. While this program is definitely about having fun, the emphasis is placed on self-reflection, goal setting, and building positive female relationships.
"We focus on empowerment, self-esteem, self-expression and self-image through outdoor adventure programming" says Dana Parkes, the program coordinator. "It's great to see these pre-teen girls let go, be themselves and try out some activities that are not 'uber-feminine'. They discover that they really enjoy getting muddy!"
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Tools and Tips
Choosing a summer camp program for your child involves some research and decision making. You will consider safety, price and structure, the experience of the staff and the camp director and the overall reputation of the camp.
Our first piece of advice is to get started on your research early! The camp experience could have a significant impact on your child's life and your mental health! Here are some other tips on making this important choice.
- Child-centred approach: think about your child's personality, interests and needs. What kind of structure and set up will your child benefit from the most? What do you want them to gain from the experience?
- Logistics: what camp fits with your work schedule? Does it offer transportation or extended hours?
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Events
Wild About Whales 2012
Cheer your whale down the Gorge for a chance to win incredible prizes at our free, family event on June 9 supporting Boys & Girls Club's out of school programs in Greater Victoria. Buy your raffle tickets now.
On Saturday, June 9th, 2012 from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm bring the whole family to enjoy the race (at 1:00 pm) and other activities including: ocean themed games, bouncy castles, face painting, Voyageur canoe and Dragon Boat rides, concession and much more!
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