Boys' & Girls' Club of London Foundation

The Boys' & Girls' Club of London Foundation is a Canadian registered charity dedicated to supporting the programs and services of BGC London, an organization that serves children, youth, adults, and seniors in the London community. The Foundation focuses on raising sustainable funding through community partnerships to enable impactful projects aligned with the strategic vision of BGC London. It operates as a separate legal entity from the Club, with its own Board of Directors, to facilitate targeted fundraising and stewardship of donor contributions.

History and Purpose

Initially, the Foundation managed a small investment fund and convened biannually. In 1984, it assumed an active fundraising role to support the construction of new facilities for BGC London. Since then, it has grown in responsibility and scope to ensure ongoing financial support for both operational needs and capital projects. The Foundation works to maintain transparency and accountability to donors, ensuring that all gifts provide sustainable funding and fit within BGC London’s strategic priorities.

Mission

The Foundation’s mission aligns with that of BGC London: to provide an affordable, safe, and supportive environment where individuals of all ages can experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships, and develop confidence, leadership, and life skills. This mission supports a wide range of programs focused on self-expression, academics, healthy living, physical activity, mental health, and community engagement.

Programs Supported

BGC London, supported by the Foundation, offers after-school programs, day camps, swimming lessons, and recreational activities for youth. Additionally, it provides programming for adults aged 50 and older, including fitness, aquatic, and social opportunities through facilities like the Horton Street Seniors’ Centre. The organization emphasizes the importance of safe spaces during critical out-of-school hours where young people can thrive and grow into responsible, caring adults.

Governance

The Foundation is governed by a Board of up to twelve members, including a cross-over member who sits on both the Foundation and BGC London Boards to ensure effective communication. Key leadership includes:

• President: Andrew Johnson
• Vice President: Elinor Schwob
• Treasurer & Past President: Ryan Gibbons
• Directors: Alexander Kopacz, Guochen (Max) Wu, Lauren Moore, Mackenzie Young, Patrick Donohue, Paul McQueen (Past Chair), Thomas Burnett

Registration and Status

The Boys' & Girls' Club of London Foundation is provincially and federally incorporated as a nonprofit organization registered under the Not-for-Profit Corporations Act. It is recognized by the Canada Revenue Agency as a registered charity, holding the Business Registration Number 119037638RR0001.

This organizational structure and dedicated fundraising efforts empower BGC London to continue meeting the evolving needs of its community, ensuring that its programs remain accessible and impactful for generations to come.