Members
Membership
Our unique difference of being part of a Boys and Girls Club versus other service providers is in our name, summed up in a word, and is the word “Club.”
Thorndike’s dictionary definition of Club is: “A group of people joined together for some special purpose.” Clubs have benefits and privileges along with rules and responsibilities. People who belong to clubs are called members. The building, rooms or facilities used by a club becomes the club house, and members have a say in what goes on, they do things together, and care about one another. Our special purpose is described in our name “Boys and Girls”, and our reasons for the club are expressed in our vision, mission and values.
Over one hundred years ago in Canada, and 50 years ago in the Okanagan, people came together to bring the club experience to kids who didn’t belong to much else. They provided kids a place to go, a place to grow, a “clubhouse,” a place to belong. Although much has changed since that time, very little has changed. Kids continue to look for places to belong, there are many more choices today, many more dangers, and harmful outcomes of a poor choice. Kids today need, and are looking for, “The Boys and Girls Club” to belong to. A place they can call theirs that’s safe and fun with challenges and adventure, full of caring skilled adults who want to support, teach and lead. It’s the magic that happens for kids when they belong to something as wonderful as a Boys & Girls Club that’s so remarkable, and makes the experience life lasting.
What our members say...
"I like the Boys and Girls club because it makes you feel welcome. If you have a problem, staff are always here for you."
- Member Anna Hewer, 12 years old, Vernon, BC
"When days are rough the club is there to stand by you every second of the day."
- Member Taliesan Orosz , 10 years old, Vernon BC
"The Boys and Girls Clubs pretty much carved my life. They made me the person I am today. The clubs change people’s lives everyday. It’s not just a good place to be, it’s the BEST place to be."
- Alumni/Staff Andrea Biggs, 19 years old, Kelowna BC
"Club 180 is pretty sweet. I messed up a couple of times but the staff is really chill. The helped me when I needed them most and I am forever grateful of that. They welcomed me with open arms and more respect than I could ever have asked for."
- Downtown Youth Centre Member, 17 years old, Kelowna BC
"The Downtown Youth Center is like my second home. Without the center I would be on the streets now. The center is a safe place for me to come and do activities with the nice staff and hang out with friends. At times my family has been very short on food and I can always come to the center to get a meal at lunch time."
- Downtown Youth Centre Member 17
"I came to Penny Lane with a world of problems. During the really difficult times when I needed someone to talk to that could also give me professional advice on a friendly level, the staff was there for me. I only wish there were more places like Penny Lane that could help other youth."
- Penny Lane Alumni Michael Hoft, 21 years old, Kelowna BC
"The Club is a place I wish more kids could experience, all the interactions are so important. I can’t thank the Club enough for all their wonderful work and attention with our kids, the environment created is safe and relaxed, which in turn makes my wife and I relaxed. I would recommend the Boys and Girls Club programs for any family, it’s a truly great value with great service at a time when both are hard to find."
- Parent, West Kelowna BC
Become a Member
All children and youth who participate in programs and services are members of the Okanagan Boys and Girls Clubs. Your membership is recognized at all Clubs across the Okanagan Valley.
Membership costs $10.00 per year. No one is ever turned away from the Boys and Girls Clubs due to an inability to pay membership. Sponsorship and payment plans can be arranged.
For more information on how to become a member and join the Okanagan Boys and Girls Clubs, contact your local Centre Director.