BGC Big Brothers Big Sisters of Edmonton and Area Society

Overview

BGC Big Brothers Big Sisters of Edmonton and Area Society is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the development of children and youth in the Edmonton area. It operates under the unified brand of BGCBigs, which emerged from the merger of Boys & Girls Clubs and Big Brothers Big Sisters services in 2011[3].

Mission and Vision

The organization's mission is to facilitate the healthy development of children, youth, and their families by providing safe places and positive relationships through various services[4]. The overarching vision is for all young people to discover and achieve their full potential, a common goal shared across the BGCBigs network[1].

Background

The Big Brothers Big Sisters organization in Canada has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, with roots in Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, which began in 1904[5]. In Canada, Big Brothers Big Sisters has been a key player in youth mentoring since 1912, known for providing life-changing experiences to help children overcome adversities and achieve greater success in life[2].

Operational Structure

As part of the broader BGCBigs network, the Edmonton and Area Society benefits from the structure and expertise of the national organization. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada is a federation with numerous member agencies across the country, providing support to youth in hundreds of communities[2].

Impact and Services

The organization focuses on creating supportive environments where young people can thrive. By pairing children with caring mentors, it helps mitigate the effects of adverse childhood experiences, promoting improved outcomes in physical, mental, social, emotional, and academic development[2]. The services provided by BGC Big Brothers Big Sisters of Edmonton and Area Society align with these goals, ensuring that local youth have access to positive role models and supportive spaces to explore their potential.

Historical Context

In 2011, the legal status of BGCBigs was formally established, marking a significant restructuring in the nonprofit sector by integrating the services of Boys & Girls Clubs and Big Brothers Big Sisters under a single brand[3]. This integration allowed the organization to more effectively serve at-risk children and families in the Edmonton area.

Contribution to Society

Like other Big Brothers Big Sisters organizations, BGC Big Brothers Big Sisters of Edmonton and Area Society plays a vital role in community development. By investing in youth, it contributes to societal improvements through enhanced educational achievements, volunteerism, and future economic success[2].