Inclusion is Kindness: BGC South East launches annual Pink Shirt fundraiser

Kingston/Brockville — BGC South East is pleased to kick off 2026 with the launch of its annual Pink Shirt Day campaign, a community-wide initiative focused on building healthy, safe, and inclusive spaces for local children and youth. The campaign is presented by Brookland Homes and features 98.3 FLY FM as the official media partner.

This year, the campaign highlights the role each of us plays in creating safe, welcoming spaces for children and youth of all abilities. Running for over 15 years in Kingston, a highlight for 2026 is the expansion of the campaign to Leeds & Grenville, as the Club launches new programs in these communities.

Over the last few years, the Club has focused on expanding inclusion across programs, with adapted activities and a dedicated team of Inclusion Workers. The campaign highlights that inclusion is at the heart of kindness and that being kind means embracing a diversity of backgrounds and abilities for a stronger community.

“I believe the Pink Shirt Day campaign is vitally important because it fosters inclusion and shows solidarity with members who may feel marginalized,” says Vicki Keith, Multi-World Record Athlete & High Performance Swim Coach.

Keith joined the Club as the Inclusion Advocate in 2025 to expand inclusion across programs through staff training and community initiatives, and is championing the Pink Shirt Day campaign this year. “When surrounded by a sea of pink, they will be reminded that they are not alone—they are part of a community working together to create a space where everyone can feel safe, respected, and welcome,” she continues.

Community members can show their support by purchasing or donating Pink Shirt Day apparel, including T-shirts, crewnecks, hoodies, and toques. Pink Shirt Day merchandise is available for purchase online through a secure Shopify store at https://bgcpinkshirtday.ca/, with orders closing on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.

Funds raised will support anti-bullying, mentorship, and mental health programs benefiting more than 1,500 local children and youth during February across Club program locations, including Kingston, Loyalist, Napanee and Leeds & Grenville. Funds raised in each community will directly support programs in that same community, ensuring fundraising efforts remain local.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available for businesses and organizations looking to support the campaign and its impact.

“Last year, the campaign provided over 1,000 shirts to children and youth, reaching over 30,000 community members and engaging more than 40 local businesses,” says Amanda Guarino, Director of Resource Development at BGC South East. “It’s incredibly powerful to see our community come together around a shared commitment and to see the campaign grow each year.”

BGC South East invites the community to join Pink Shirt Day on February 25th, to celebrate inclusivity and belonging, and support the creation of safe, supportive spaces where local children and youth can grow, learn, and belong.