Positive Relationships

A circular icon featuring a stylized line drawing of two hands clasped together in a strong, supportive handshake. The illustration uses dark grey outlines with distinct shades of green: one hand is colored a lighter mint green, while the other is a darker teal green. The entire icon is set against a very pale blue, circular background.

BGC Clubs help kids develop healthy social connections by providing a network of people who care about them.

Positive relationships and meaningful social connections are key to a healthy childhood.

A positive connection to self, along with supportive relationships with peers and adults, protects young people from negative outcomes and helps them develop social skills that will serve them throughout their lives. BGC Clubs are an environment where positive relationships are intentionally developed and nurtured—where extraverted and introverted kids alike can create connections that matter.

At BGC, Positive Relationships is one of four key outcomes of a Club and encompasses 5 factors: connection, conflict resolution, belonging, self-acceptance, and acceptance of others. Our most recent survey data from 2024 reveals that:

Three children standing together outdoors in winter, smiling beside a snowman.

Because of a Club…

95%

of kids have more people they like to spend time with

79%

of kids are better at working through arguments with others

87%

of kids feel like they matter more to people

90%

of kids feel more comfortable being themselves

90%

are more aware of the feelings of others

“It’s crucial that we have children working alongside adults and other children learning problem solving, understanding the perspective of the other, becoming self-aware; all those things are what happens at Boys & Girls Clubs (BGC Clubs), intentionally!”

– Dr. Jean Clinton, Child Psychiatrist & BGC Canada

Alumni Hall of Fame Recipient

A child smiling and holding a handmade sign that reads ‘I help others,’ decorated with colorful drawings.

Positive relationships make a difference. Let’s connect!

Contact our Partnerships & Philanthropy team to help create lasting impact in the lives of children and youth in Canada.

BECOME A PARTNER