December 2, 2020
Jully Black's article in the Toronto Star emphasizes emphasizes how Boys and Girls Clubs can help youth find their inner greatness.
Opportunity changes everything.
If this sentence doesn’t resonate with you, then maybe opportunity wasn’t something you had to think about. Or maybe you had to create your own opportunities — but doors were still open to you and so “changes everything” doesn’t hit the same.
When I first heard this, I liked it. It rang true because it moves from the usual debates about policing and gun control and other short-term solutions and looks to the long game: if we create opportunities, especially for young people, we change lives, we change communities, we change our country.
For me, opportunity is when those who are invisible or excluded are given a chance to show their abilities to others who have the resources to take them to the next level. I often say give me the interview and I will get the job. I’m not looking for you to give me the job — I’m looking for a safe and brave space to present the greatness I have manifested.
Playing organized basketball at the Boys and Girls Club was my opportunity. It kept me focused and off the streets. I always did well academically and music was a given, but it was when I got deep into organized sports that I realized sport imitates society. If you can contribute to a team and you know the success of that team depends on your commitment and focus, it will transfer into other areas of your life. I believe I’ve had success in the music business because I know how to play on a team.
BGC Club Day is June 5. Celebrate with us!
Nursery School - Book a tour today!
STARS After School Program - Registration is open
H20 Aquatic Leadership Summer Camp
Registration for the 2026-27 year opens on Monday, May 4 at 10 a.m. Early registration details were sent to current STARS families on April 21 via email. STARS JK - Grade 4 The STARS After School Program at St. Alban's offers an enriching and engaging experience for children in grades JK-4. Our diverse range of activities includes hands-on cooking, swimming, drama, arts & crafts, computer time, and a variety of indoor and outdoor sports. Your child will have the opportunity to explore their interests, develop new skills, and create lasting memories in a safe and nurturing environment. Join us for an exciting and well-rounded after-school adventure! ROCKETS Grades 5 & 6 The "Rockets" program is a specially designed experience for children in grades 5-6, bridging the gap between our STARS and Youth Compass programs. Offering a blend of engaging activities such as swimming, cooking, and recreational sports, this program keeps children active and entertained. In addition to these fun pursuits, the "Rockets" program places a strong emphasis on fostering community engagement and developing essential leadership skills, helping participants grow into well-rounded, confident, and compassionate individuals. STARS is offered at the main clubhouse and at satellite site s .
Registration has opened for our wide variety of summer camps for kids ages 4-16. Your child will experience a variety of engaging activities, including outdoor adventures, imaginative games, and creative arts and crafts. Our skilled and experienced staff team nurtures a cooperative atmosphere that encourages children to challenge themselves, cultivate curiosity, and embrace new discoveries. Every day is an adventure that fosters social skills, creativity, and imagination Spots go quickly so register quickly: Children (4-11) Youth (12-16) Aquatics (varied)
Please note our hours of operation for Easter Weekend are as follows: Good Friday): Closed Saturday, April 4: 9:30 a.m. - 2p.m. Sunday, April 5 (Easter Sunday): Closed We wish you a happy, safe and joyful holiday!
We're proud to serve Toronto's children, youth, and families. You can review our impact in 2025 in this PDF , which highlights the critical work that we do at BGC St. Alban's Club. Our preschool, afterschool, summer camps and youth programs have enormously positive influence on individuals, families and communities. We are grateful to our members, staff, donors and supporters who make this all possible. Thank you!
Registration is filing up for our March Break aquatics programs! Swim Lessons Aquatic Leadership Keep your kids active and happy over the Break while improving their swimming skills. Spots go quickly so register today!
Registration for Spring Swimming programs opens at 10 a.m. on Sunday, March 1. Programs: Swim Lessons Lane Swim Aquafit with Kelly Ziger Spring session begins the week of April 13 and ends the day of Monday, June 15. Spaces are limited so register quickly!
