BGC South East Hosts Great Pumpkin Party to Fundraise for United Way

BGC South East raised funds for the United Way KFL&A during its Great Pumpkin Halloween Party, held on October 28, 2023. This event took place at the organization’s west-end location and attracted over 1,000 children. The United Way KFL&A is currently running its annual fundraising campaign, and as a member agency, BGC South East contributed to the cause through festive activities and community engagement.

The United Way KFL&A provided grants to support 57 programs across 31 agencies last year, highlighting the significance of local fundraising efforts. Families enjoyed a variety of activities, including Halloween crafts, a spooky maze, and inflatable attractions. Participants were encouraged to wear costumes, with prizes awarded for creativity. A silent auction and a pumpkin raffle featuring unique designs further enriched the day’s festivities. For those seeking a quieter experience, a specially designed “sensory room” was available, allowing individuals to relax and recharge.

Amanda Guarino, the Director of Resource Development and Communications at BGC South East, expressed enthusiasm about the facility’s expansion. “We’re now 64,000 square feet, with a swimming pool, a jungle gym, and a full gymnasium,” she said. The new features include a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and robotics center aimed at fostering innovation among youth.

The “Sensory Space,” managed by Cadence Cairns, aims to support individuals with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorders. This area uses various stimuli such as lights and textures to assist in emotional regulation and sensory development. Cairns noted the increasing demand for such spaces in community events, observing that many organizations are now prioritizing sensory-friendly environments.

“It’s crucial to ensure all community members can enjoy events equally,” Cairns added. She emphasized the importance of these spaces for children with anxiety or sensory sensitivities. The initiative to incorporate sensory areas into events has gained traction, with similar features appearing at concerts and fairs.

In contrast to the quieter activities, the gymnasium buzzed with energy, featuring bowling, obstacle courses, and archery. A pancake breakfast in the morning and hot dogs for lunch drew praise from attendees. Evan Cheetham, a father of three, highlighted the affordability of the menu, stating, “Three bucks for two pancakes and a juice box? You can’t beat that.”

Cheetham’s link to BGC South East developed through friends who began working there as counselors. His experience as a parent has deepened his appreciation for the organization. “I’ve been taking advantage of the boys and girls club since my kids were born,” he said, praising the EarlyON Centres for their valuable resources for families with young children.

The EarlyON Child and Family Centers offer free programs for children from birth to six years old, providing essential support and guidance for young families. As Cheetham’s children have grown, he has discovered new opportunities at BGC, including STEM and robotics programs. “Without the boys and girls club, my kids wouldn’t have been exposed to this much activity and opportunity,” he stated.

Guarino noted that the STEM and Robotics Centre has been operating for a year, providing a space for children aged four to 18 to engage in coding, construction, and robotics competitions. “The robots built here compete every year in our competition field,” she explained. The centre also features a Maker Space equipped with various tools, including a laser engraver and a 3D printer.

Cheetham encouraged parents to consider BGC for their children, emphasizing the organization’s impact on the wider community. “You’re not going to find great affordable activities like these that also give back to the community,” he stated. Every visit to BGC South East contributes to a cause that extends far beyond the immediate experience, fostering a sense of collective support and development within the community.