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Boys and Girls Clubs of Winnipeg
For Mirzet Alekic, the Boys and Girls Club became a friend and sanctuary when he needed it most; at a time in his young 12 year-old life when he was adjusting to a new city, a new country and a new language.
In 1995, Mirzet's family had just immigrated to Canada from Croatia, where they had endured much suffering and violence during the war in their home country of Bosnia. After living in refugee camps for years, the family was able to escape
to Canada where a new life awaited them.
As a shy and reserved newcomer, Mirzet started going to the Victor Mager Club for some much-needed stress relief and a place to play with and meet kids in his neighbourhood. It gave him a chance to participate in sports, play computer games, get help with his homework and improve his English. He also nurtured his interest and love for the game of basketball and learned to make some positive life choices. In 2000, he got a summer job at the Club and worked there part-time while in university. As one of the first recipients of a Boys and Girls Clubs scholarship, Mirzet went on to graduate from the Asper School of Business. His future is very bright.
"I've benefited so much from the Club and life in Canada would have been much tougher without it," says Mirzet. Mirzet continues to volunteer at the Victor Mager Club where this year he coached a Boys and Girls Club team to a second place finish in the Winnipeg Minor Basketball Association Championships.
"The Club helped me so much; I'm happy to give back," says Mirzet.
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Winnipeg serve over 4,000 children, youth and their families each year. Their nine clubs are in neighbourhoods throughout Winnipeg where they are needed most. Clubs provide fun, safe places that give young people opportunities for personal growth and skill development. Children and youth participate in recreational, educational and social development programs, which vary from club to club. Programs include sports, arts, youth leadership, a homework club, providing healthy meals and snacks, and educational and other support services for children and youth in need. Young people come to clubs to have fun and hang out, but end up doing so much more!
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Winnipeg provide practical solutions for many of the challenges facing today's children and youth. Our programs meet the diverse needs and interests of all members. We believe in offering supports and creating
opportunities for personal growth so children can enjoy their childhood while preparing for responsible adulthood. Building resiliency allows them to overcome many of the barriers they face in life. As education is the surest way out of poverty, our programs encourage them to stay in school and provide educational supports to help them along the way. Programs are FREE and accessible to ALL children and youth.
To locate a club, make a donation or volunteer, visit our Web site* or call 982-4940. (* Will open in a new window.)
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Boys and Girls Clubs of Winnipeg
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