Forestry and the Boys and Girls Clubs of BC (BGCBC) have shared a decades-long partnership. Serving annually over 12,000 families, children, and youth across the province through their clubs and camps, the BGCBC give kids a chance to be amazing. Sports, arts and crafts, creative arts, homework clubs, and tutoring are just some of the enriching activities that BGCBC has to offer.

Having celebrated their 80th anniversary in 2016, the BGCBC continues to give kids a place to have fun with continued support from the forestry sector. Connecting kids with nature, especially those living in urban areas, is one of the many ways the industry is pitching-in. Whether it’s teaching kids about the science behind forestry and the importance of trees in everyday life, or funding improvements to Camp Potlatch, forestry continues to build on its close relationship with the BGCBC.

Camp Potlatch: Wilderness Summer Camp

Considered one of Canada’s best wilderness campsites, Camp Potlatch represents what is possible when industry and the community work together. Built on a former logging site on the Sunshine Coast, Camp Potlatch is made-up of 133 acres of densely vegetated forest along 1.5 km of waterfront property. Accessible only by boat, the camp takes kids off the grid and lets them take-in everything the coastal region has to offer. At Camp Potlatch, kids are exposed to a wealth of new experiences, including recreational activities like kayaking and hiking, as well as life skills including leadership training and healthy living behaviours. Kids at Camp Potlatch also learn about the environment, the forestry sector, and the close relationship they share with one another. The newly renovated ecology centre also teaches kids about local plants and wildlife.

The result? Kids come back transformed, with a greater appreciation for nature. Thanks to a renewed commitment from forestry, kids at Camp Potlatch will have the opportunity to enjoy this life-changing experience for many years to come.