For 16 year-old Karol, the Suncor Club has been much more than a safe place to go after school. The Club is a place where Karol has excelled in academics, has had incredible outdoor adventures, and has become a leader. But most importantly to Karol, the Club is a place where he belongs — and a place where he can write his own story. 

He said, “The first time I walked through the Club doors at the age of 11, I remember being welcomed by staff and seeing kids from diverse backgrounds and ages having fun together, and remember feeling a strong sense of community. Today, I still feel a strong sense of community as well as a strong sense of belonging and connection that no other place has offered me.” 

The key to that sense of belonging and connection for Karol has been our staff. He said, “The supportive staff at the Suncor Boys & Girls Club has changed my life. They continually are helpful and encouraging, pushing me to be my best, and are trusted adults that I can confide in.” 

“Today, I still feel a strong sense of community as well as a strong sense of belonging and connection that no other place has offered me.” 

– Karol

One of the biggest lessons Karol learned from the staff at Suncor is this: Your story is your everything. 

That’s why the Club has been an incredible launchpad for Karol; the place where he gets to envision his future and be the author of his own story. Through the Club’s leadership programs, he has had the opportunity to bring his vision to life. He has plans to change the world through smoking cessation education programs and eventually would like to start his own school that supports all ages and abilities of kids. 

“The Club is a place of hope, a place that has pushed me to achieve more than I would have on my own, and a place that I feel truly believes in the kids that it serves. This is why the Club means everything to me, the Club is my family, and I believe it is the reason I am the young man I am today.”