(PL) - Dawson Community Centre received $10,000 from Sears Canada for after-school programs and activities.
Sears Canada will contribute $277,700 to Boys and Girls Clubs across Canada for the 2008-09 school year as part of its Sears After-School Enhancement Grants program. Dawson Community Centre received $10,000 that will enable them to provide a safe, fun and enriching after-school alternative to the streets for thousands of local children and youth.
The Sears After-School Enhancement Grants are a national initiative of Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada (BGCC) in partnership with Sears Canada. With the grants, the Clubs will be able to expand existing after-school programs that comprise a wide range of activities and services, and create new after-school programs to help families and communities in need of support.
As one of 27 Boys and Girls Clubs across Canada to receive the $10,000 After-School Enhancement Grant, Dawson Community Centre will be able to increase the number of youth participating in the educational activities of our after-school program and to give children, with difficult behaviors, intervention and support. This creates a safety net around the families and the community.
«The after-school hours are a critical time for children who are unsupervised and have nowhere safe to go,» said Line St-Amour, Dawson Community Centre Executive Director. «With the help of caring adult mentors, Boys and Girls Clubs after-school programs can offer these kids a positive place where they can participate in activities that help nurture their personal, social, physical and academic development.»
Many thousands of children, youth and their families have benefited from the Sears After-School Enhancement Grants. A survey conducted by Ipsos Reid in 2005 revealed that 69% of alumni said that their involvement with Boys and Girls Clubs saved their lives. Research shows that young people who are involved in after-school programs have improved educational success; enhanced self-esteem; better peer and family relations; and increased positive mental and physical health.
Sears Canada is proud of its more than 40-year partnership with Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada. Since 2001, Sears Canada has contributed nearly $2 million to support the positive growth of children.
The Dawson Community Centre, founded in 1959, is a leading provider of programs to children and youth that support the healthy physical, educational and social development of 200 young people and their families each year. Dedicated, trained staff and volunteers offer programs in physical recreation, technology, the arts, personal growth, nutrition, intergenerational and more. The Centre creates a safe, supportive environment where children and youth experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships and develop confidence and skills for life. To learn more, visit our Centre at 666 Woodland or give us a call 514-767-9967.
