BGC Durham has been through many iterations throughout our 60-year history.
Over the decades, we have grown, undergone a few name changes, and adapted to new needs in Durham Region. Despite the changes, our steadfast support of children and youth remains paramount in all that we do.
A Legacy Begins (1963)
BGC Durham’s story starts in 1963 when the Women’s Welfare League of Oshawa founded the Simcoe Hall Boys’ Club. Soon after, the organization became known as the Eastview Boys and Girls Club and received a charter of operations and its own Board of Directors. BGC Durham as it exists today was beginning to take shape.
Building and Growing (1963 – 2011)
The first Executive Director of the Eastview Boys and Girls Club, Harold W. McNeill, was responsible for the funding and building of our present clubhouse. McNeill served as Executive Director for five years and oversaw the Club’s inception and initial growth.
Leadership and Regional Expansion (2011 – 2019)
The Eastview Boys and Girls Club became the Boys and Girls Club of Durham in 2011 under the leadership of Lisa McNee-Baker – the Club’s first female Executive Director. This new name reflected the scale of the Club, as we had grown to serve the entire Region of Durham.
Adaptation and Resilience (2019 – Present)
McNee-Baker left her position in 2019 and was succeeded by Kathleen Hutton.
As Executive Director, Hutton navigated the Club through the COVID-19 pandemic and oversaw the Club as it pivoted to its new identity as BGC Durham.
In 2021, Boys and Girls Clubs across Canada changed their names to BGC to reflect that our doors are open to all kids and teens and to echo the inclusive practices we are known for – BGC serves people of all ages, backgrounds, and identities.
BGC Durham Today
In June 2023, BGC Durham welcomed its current Executive Director Howard Moriah.
BGC Durham has grown into one of the Region’s most established and effective youth service organizations, offering programs in 20 locations throughout the Durham Region. We have grown to have a core membership of approximately 1000 children and youth and serve an approximate user population of 6,000 per year, representing an age range from 4 years old to over 80 years old.
BGC Durham has provided a safe and supportive atmosphere for children and youth to grow, learn and work towards reaching their full potential for 60 years and looks forward to continuing our work for many years to come.
