Inspiring Toronto's youth: BTS and Ontario Charitable Gaming Association join forces
We are thrilled to announce that Beat the Streets (BTS) has partnered with the Ontario Charitable Gaming Association (OCGA). As we partner with the OCGA, we're poised to reach even more young individuals in Ontario.
We are delighted to be able to raise funds for our Wrestle 4 Fun programs and nurture active and healthy youth, meet community members, advocate for our cause, and raise awareness of BTS by engaging with OCGA's exciting egaming centres.
About Wrestle 4 Fun
Wrestle 4 Fun engaging children at Albion Boys & Girls Club, summer 2023.
Wrestle 4 Fun is a a sports and skill-building program led by dedicated and professional wrestlers. This week-long program is specially designed to inspire children aged 6-12 to embrace an active lifestyle. We focus on enhancing physical literacy and confidence, fostering two fundamental elements for an energetic and fulfilling life. What sets Wrestle 4 Fun apart is our commitment to creating a fun and inclusive environment, ensuring every child can thrive.
Thanks to support from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), we've already touched the lives of nearly 9,000 students in the past 2.5 years. However, as our three-year grant from OTF approaches its conclusion in March 2024, the OCGA partnership becomes even more crucial. It will enable BTS to sustain and expand this program, continuing to inspire and impact the youth in our community.
The Significance of Physical Literacy in Youth Development
“It makes me more active. Since participating, I feel happier.”
Physical literacy is a cornerstone of a child's development, fostering a strong foundation for a healthy and active life. This concept not only promotes physical well-being but also nurtures vital life skills. Research consistently emphasizes the importance of physical literacy in children's long-term health and overall quality of life.
Wrestling programs for youth, like Wrestle 4 Fun, offer a powerful avenue to promote physical literacy. Wrestling demands a unique blend of physical skills, encompassing strength, agility, balance, and coordination. Children can elevate their fitness levels through wrestling, develop essential motor skills, and discover new ways to move their bodies.
Meet Our Partner: Ontario Charitable Gaming Association (OCGA)
The Ontario Charitable Gaming Association, established in 1997, is a dedicated not-for-profit organization representing nearly 2,000 Ontario charities and non-profits. Their mission revolves around advocating for positive changes within the charitable gaming industry, supporting and generating crucial funding for registered charities and not-for-profits across Ontario.
OCGA collaborates extensively with various stakeholders, including Ontario Lottery and Gaming, Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, private sector operators, suppliers, municipalities, and provincial government ministries. Their efforts led to regulatory improvements, technological advancements in charitable gaming, and increased public awareness of the sector's vital role.
BTS extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Ontario Charitable Gaming Association for their support. This partnership strengthens our commitment to shaping active, confident, and resilient youth through programs like Wrestle 4 Fun.
Sign up to our newsletter to stay tuned for more updates on our journey with OCGA and the positive impact we're creating for the youth of Ontario.
About Beat the Streets:
At Beat the Streets, our mission is to advance the education of low-income children and youth in the Greater Toronto Area through fun and unique sports, life skills, and employment-based development programs. Since 2015, we have served over 28,000 young individuals through our Wrestle 4 Fun, Level Up, You Grow Girl, Work It (Summer Jobs), and Volunteer programs, providing them opportunities to develop their physical, mental, and social well-being. We believe in empowering the next generation by breaking down barriers and creating pathways to success.
Join us in our mission to impact youth:
Join us in making a difference by supporting our cause and learning more about how you can contribute to the education and growth of children and youth in need. Together, we can shape a brighter future for all.
