Finance committee  I would encourage you to work with aboriginal organizations. I know the government already is. That is definitely the way to go. Some of our clubs serve a high number of aboriginal kids. The Saddle Lake club is on a first nations reserve. The Winnipeg club has high levels of aboriginal youth who participate.

Finance committee  We, Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada, are older. We're 113.

Finance committee  Big Brothers Big Sisters is celebrating 100 years next year.

Finance committee  I could verify that and report back to the committee. Off the top of my head, I don't know the international stats well enough to be able to see how we compare. But I would be happy to get back to you on that.

Finance committee  Increased funding on its own won't be enough. It takes years to build the kinds of relationships that will save a young person's life and make the difference between them choosing the streets or the Skills Link program at their local club. Programs that are achieving results in communities that need them should be able to access longer-term funding.

Finance committee  Thank you. Good afternoon, everyone. My name is Rachel. I'm with Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada. I'm very grateful to be speaking here today. Canada is facing an unprecedented demographic shift that will require its young people to be educated, skilled, and able to enter the workforce.