What BGC South East’s move into Leeds and Grenville will mean for local youth

The agency is working closely with local leaders to complement existing community support

BGC South East will expand its services into Leeds and Grenville following the planned closure of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Leeds and Grenville at the end of 2025. 

The local agency is winding down operations after 48 years due to economic pressures.

BGC South East, formerly the Boys and Girls Club of Kingston & Area, has been providing child and youth programs since 1993. 

Its offerings include sports, arts, STEM, literacy, nutrition, and leadership development, serving more than 6,200 young people each year.

BGC CEO Harold Parsons highlighted the organization’s first priority as they expand into the area.

He noted that high-impact educational programs, including robotics, STEM, and literacy, will begin in January as “phase one” of the expansion.

He pointed out a few differences in how they will operate compared with Big Brothers Big Sisters.

He explained their plan as they extend into the community.

Parsons emphasized that the expansion aims to grow and improve BGC South East’s programs, providing more opportunities for youth in Leeds and Grenville. 

The organization is also benefiting from a holiday fundraiser run by Brockville Hyundai, helping to support new youth programs in Leeds and Grenville.

The agency is working closely with local leaders to complement existing community support.

Story by Evan Gibb