The local BGC (formerly Boys & Girls Club) chapter is putting its Rocky Mountain House facility up for sale as it transitions away from licensed childcare and focuses on flexible, community-based youth programming.
The decision, confirmed by Youth HQ executive director Rob Lewis, comes just months after BGC of Red Deer & District announced it would wind down childcare operations in Rocky by February 2025, citing declining enrollment and rising costs. With childcare services no longer in the picture, the building—located along 49 Street—is no longer suitable for the organization’s future direction.
“The building is designed really to deliver childcare services,” said Lewis. “And because we’ve moved out of that work, we’re looking at ways to use our assets more effectively to support youth and teen programs in the community.”
Youth HQ, which oversees BGC programs in the region, is shifting toward a more mobile, responsive programming model. Currently, that means “pop-up” events held at various locations, including community halls, school gyms, and recreation centres, depending on availability and community interest.
Rather than maintaining a building, Lewis said the organization sees more value in selling the property—owned outright—and reinvesting the liquidated funds directly into programming for youth in Rocky and surrounding areas.
An MLS listing shows the clubhouse building is on the market for $349,900.
Despite the change, Lewis emphasized that BGC is not pulling out of the community. “We’re not leaving Rocky. We’re just shifting focus to a different age group and a more sustainable model,” he said.
Pop-up events so far have included transporting youth from Rocky to Red Deer for activities like indoor climbing.
Looking ahead, Youth HQ hopes to find a small, flexible rental space in Rocky that could serve as a hub for youth programming, though no specific location has been chosen.
Founded in 1983, BGC of Red Deer & District currently serves over 900 children and youth in 12 communities across central Alberta. The organization says the shift to youth-focused programming will allow for more impactful use of funds from partners such as United Way, Family & Community Support Services (FCSS), and government grants.
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