The Boys and Girls Institute (BGI) was established in 1883 by a group of young people associated with St John's. It is an organisation committed to the development of youth in the community.  Most Wellingtonians will associate the name of BGI with the gymnasium and swimming pool facilities that it used to own on Tasman St.

In 1999, the decision was made to sell the facilities and use the funds to initiate and support community and youth projects.  Following on from this decision, a new position was created in 2002 - Director of Youth and Community Projects. 

Ross Davis, a St John's member, was appointed to the position.  Under his leadership, BGI has quickly established itself as one of the foremost non-governmental providers of youth and community projects in the Wellington region.  Its adventure therapy programme, mentoring and family support initiatives and regional youth projects have a lot of credibility with the police and Wellington City Council.

BGI is currently researching the possibility of providing a youth cafe in the inner city in partnership with the Wellington City Council.  St John's Congregation has approved making Spink's Cottage available for the cafe.

The BGI Board is appointed by St John's, and the Minister of St John's is the President of the Board.  In effect, BGI has become a vital part of the outreach of St John's.  It provides an infrastructure for St John's members to be involved in the community.

For further information, email ross@bgi.org.nz or phone 04 385 9549

You can see more about the BGI's work in the Wellington region here:

http://www.bgi.org.nz/