Staff & Board
People Make The Difference
At BGC Cape Breton, it’s the people who turn our mission into reality. Our team is the heartbeat of the organization, fostering a space where kids not only feel safe but are also inspired to explore their potential. From long-standing leaders with decades of experience in youth development to newcomers eager to give back, our staff come from diverse backgrounds including education, community support, and therapeutic recreation. Each member brings a unique set of skills and a shared commitment to helping our youth grow, thrive, and succeed.
Every staff member is dedicated to creating moments filled with laughter, learning, and meaningful connections. We are here to lift youth up, guide them through challenges, and help them shine—because we believe every child has the potential to achieve extraordinary things.
Staff
Great leaders don’t set out to be a leader, they set out to make a difference. It’s never about the role, always about the goal.
– Jeremy Bravo
Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors plays a crucial role in guiding the vision and mission of BGC Cape Breton. They bring diverse expertise and a deep commitment to the community, ensuring that we remain focused on empowering youth and making a lasting impact.
JEFF WARD He/Him - President
Director of Community Culture and Heritage for Wagmatcook First Nation, drawing on his vast experience and knowledge in the field of culture, management and administration. Former General Manager of the Membertou Heritage Park and Director of Operations for Metepenagiag Mi’kmaq Nation.
JERRY DEAN He/Him - Vice President
Jerry was raised on Victoria road in Whitney Pier and calls “the Pier” home. He is a former youth of the Whitney Pier Youth Center whom spent many years attending the club.
MIKE VICKERS He/Him - Treasurer Board Member
Michael Vickers is an Entrepreneur and Small Business banking advisor. He currently operates Powerful.Creative with his spouse, where they use apparel to promote diversity, inclusion, and empowerment.
BRADLEY SHEPPARD He/Him - Member at Large
Recently retired from the Canadian Armed Forces after 20 years of service and currently works as a Student Advisor/ African Canadian Supports at NSCC Marconi campus. Here, he works closely with post-secondary students to help them set clear, realistic, and attainable goals.
TAYLOR MACDONALD She/Her - Member at Large
Taylor grew up across the water in North Sydney, Nova Scotia. She has her Bachelor of Arts in Community Studies from Cape Breton University and currently works for Cornerstone Cape Breton as the Case Manager/ Program facilitator.
LIAM STAPLETON He/Him - Member at Large
Liam grew up in Sydney Nova Scotia and now a resident of Membertou First Nation. Growing up, he played many sports such as hockey, basketball and football to name a few. He is an alumni at CBU and had the pleasure of playing on the CBU Mens Basketball Team.
If you’re passionate about making a difference in the lives of youth and contributing to our mission, consider joining our Board of Directors. Your experience and dedication could help shape the future of BGC Cape Breton and the children we serve.
VACANCY - Secretary
The secretary plays a vital role in coordinating meetings, maintaining records, and ensuring compliance with legal and governance standards. They prepare agendas, take minutes, manage official documents, and facilitate communication between board members and external parties. Additionally, the secretary provides procedural advice, supports the board chair, and handles confidential information, helping the board operate smoothly and effectively.
Our Sponsors
Local businesses are essential partners in our mission. Sponsorships can take many forms, from purchasing signs and making monetary donations to offering in-kind support. These contributions help us reach more youth and provide them with the tools they need to succeed. Sponsorships not only benefit the community but also highlight the businesses’ commitment to local youth.