Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa's Vanier Clubhouse to temporarily relocate as extensive renovations begin

On October 20, 2014, programming at the Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa’s Vanier Clubhouse (430 McArthur Avenue) will be moving to a temporary home at the Ottawa Technical Secondary School (OTSS) at 485 Donald Street. The Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa (BGCO) expects to run its innovative after-school programming from OTSS until the summer of 2015, as extensive renovations are occurring at the McArthur Avenue Clubhouse.

The Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa runs after-school and weekend programming for children and youth aged six to 18 years. The Vanier Clubhouse is one of eight Club locations across the city and primarily serves Ottawa’s Vanier and Overbrook neighbourhoods. The 20,605 square foot building was built in 1970 and is leased to the BGCO on a 99-year term.

As anticipated with a building of its age, this Clubhouse has faced several issues, notably problems with the building envelope (roof and windows), an antiquated heating system and insufficient power draws. Approximately 35 percent of the existing building is unusable space, including a closed indoor pool.

To exacerbate the issues associated with an aging building, the Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa has seen tremendous Membership demand and growth at the Vanier Clubhouse. In 2013, nearly 1,100 children and youth aged six to 18 years made more than 22,500 visits to the McArthur Avenue Clubhouse – a 19 percent increase in Membership and a 14 percent increase in visits from the previous year.

“We have great youth Members, staff and volunteers at this Clubhouse,” says Colleen Mooney, Executive Director, Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa. “But the current facilities really limit the services and programs we’re able to offer. We’re excited to create a space that suits the needs and wants of this community.”

The completed project will see many changes and upgrades to the facility, including a new roof, new fire alarm system, hydro upgrade, new HVAC system, relocated and expanded kitchen and food preparation areas, relocated and upgraded washroom facilities and the creation of an indoor sports field in place of the pool.

The rejuvenation of this property will accommodate the increase in demand, create a safe and comfortable building, offer financial sustainability through rental income, foster better Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa programming and provide the Vanier and Overbrook families with a safe and supportive place for their children and youth to thrive. ** About the Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa ** Serving the Ottawa area since 1923, the Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa is a leader in after-school, weekend and summer programs for children and youth aged six to 18 years. Each year, through its eight locations throughout the city, the Club offers approximately 4,500 children and youth access to a supportive place where they can experience new opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships and develop confidence and skills for life. The Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa is a registered charity (# 118814565 RR0001).

For more information, contact:

Julie Hawrishok | Marketing and Communications Officer | Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa | 613-232-0925 Ext. 224 | jhawrishok@bgcottawa.org