Building Leaders, Building Community: Celebrating the Youth Recreation Activity Worker Program

The Youth Recreation Activity Worker (YRAW) Program, delivered in partnership between BGC Winnipeg and RRC Polytech, continues to open doors and transform lives for young adults in our community. Designed for individuals facing barriers to post-secondary education, the full-time, nine-month certificate program offers hands-on training in the field of youth recreation, empowering students to become leaders, role models, and agents of positive change.

Since its inception over two decades ago, the program has graduated more than 225 students. Nearly all are now employed or pursuing further education, a powerful testament to the program’s long-term impact. Graduates leave not only job-ready, but with the option to continue their education through RRC Polytech’s Child and Youth Care Worker Diploma program.

As Ember shared in her graduation speech: “The most defining parts of this experience were getting to work with so many amazing children and youth in my practicum. Those moments felt and relationships built taught me things I don’t think any classroom could ever teach.”

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Celebrating 20 Years of Empowering Youth: CSI Summer Learning Enrichment Program Marks a Milestone

BGC Winnipeg is proud to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the CSI Summer Learning Enrichment Program, a transformative initiative that has impacted the lives of thousands of children and youth in the Winnipeg School Division.

Initially started by the Social Planning Council of Winnipeg, BGC Winnipeg assumed ownership of the program in 2010. This milestone anniversary underscores CSI’s commitment to reducing summer learning loss, fostering academic achievement, and building stronger community connections.

“The CSI Summer Learning Enrichment Program exemplifies the power of community partnerships in supporting student success,” said Matt Henderson, Superintendent of the Winnipeg School Division. “Programs like CSI play an essential role in fostering a love of learning, enhancing academic skills, and empowering students to thrive both in and out of the classroom.”

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From 100 Miles to Coast-to-Coast: Introducing the 100 Mile Dinner+

 Since 2011, BGC Winnipeg’s 100 Mile Dinner has been a celebration of fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients found within 100 miles of Winnipeg. This year, we’re taking it one step further – introducing 100 Mile Dinner+, a culinary experience that expands beyond Manitoba’s borders to showcase the very best of Canadian ingredients from coast to coast.

Presented by WOW! Hospitality and WOW! Catering, this year’s event will continue to highlight local farmers, producers, and artisans, while also incorporating exceptional ingredients from across Canada. This exciting evolution allows us to bring a diverse range of flavours to your plate while still honouring our commitment to supporting sustainable, high-quality Canadian food producers.

Be part of this new chapter of our beloved 100 Mile Dinner. Experience incredible food, community spirit, and the joy of giving back – all in one unforgettable evening.

Sunday, September 28, 2025

A huge thank you to WestJet for their generous donation of Gift of Flight vouchers! This incredible prize will be auctioned off at this year’s 100 Mile Dinner+ event, helping us raise vital funds to keep our programs free of charge for kids and youth in our community.

Ready to Make a Lasting Impact? Become a BGC Bestie!

With flat funding, increased costs, and high demand, your support is needed now more than ever. Your monthly donation directly provides:

  • Free, engaging after-school programs for Winnipeg kids and youth
  • Resources, mentorship, and a welcoming community where every young person can feel a true sense of belonging
  • Sustainable support that keeps our programs accessible to all families in need

As a thank-you, all monthly donors will receive an exclusive “I’m a BGC Bestie” tote bag, a reminder of the life-changing difference you’re making.

Ready to become a BGC Bestie? Click here to make a difference every day of the year!