Youth Eliminates Smoking (YES)

Since 2009, BCS Youth Eliminates Smoking (YES) has been a dedicated youth group working towards raising awareness about tobacco use and prioritizing tobacco prevention through various strategies each year. Following the successful completion of Phase 11 with funding from the City, we have continued our activities even without ongoing financial support. Our ongoing initiatives have included engaging activities such as smoke-free movie nights, trivia, games, and the celebration of World No Tobacco Day (WNTD).

After School Tutoring Program (ASTP)

To cater to young children and newcomers, BCS offers the After School Tutoring Program (ASTP), a free educational support and extracurricular opportunity for families who may not have the means to afford paid services. The ASTP primarily focuses on providing tutoring services and homework assistance, which are facilitated by dedicated youth volunteers. However, the program has expanded to include engaging  extracurricular activities, such as offering children the chance to learn traditional and contemporary dances, as well as the South Asian Art program, where children can explore South Asian arts and crafts.

Summer Sports 

The Annual Summer Sports and Youth Soccer Tournament is an immensely popular event organized by BCS, particularly among the youth, and receives funding and support from the Neighbourhood Youth Alliance (NYA). For nearly 18 years, this event has successfully motivated boys and girls in the community to embrace an active lifestyle, fostering camaraderie and sportsmanship among participants. Throughout August, practice sessions were held every weekend in preparation for the main event, which took place on August 27th and 28th, 2022. Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19 restrictions, more than 100  players enthusiastically took part in the soccer tournament.

As in previous years, the tournament was held at Dentonia Park, strategically located near the Victoria Park Subway Station, providing easy accessibility for both the local and extended community.

Youth Game Night / Youth Drop-In

The weekly drop-ins provides an opportunity for youth to participate in various leisure and beneficial recreational activities, including card games, computer games, board games, and table tennis. Special events such as bowling nights and skating nights were organized, attracting a considerable number of youth participants. In addition, dinner or light snacks were provided during the sessions. By offering a safe and supportive environment, the program enabled youth to relieve stress, foster connections within the community, and serve as a positive deterrent from engaging in risky behaviors. The program's regular schedule made it particularly appealing for youth seeking to socialize with peers while fulfilling their volunteer hours.