{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"Do Local Good","title":"How a Place to Play Can Change a Young Person’s Life","html":"","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":1576,"description":"About the Episode\n\nPlay can be much more than a way to pass the time. For young people, it can be an opportunity to build friendships, discover new interests and develop the confidence to take on challenges.\nIn this episode of Do Local Good, host Josh chat with Euwen Ndhlovu from BGCBigs (BGC Big Brothers Big Sisters of Edmonton and Area) about how everyday activities like sports, games and recreation can help young people grow in ways that go far beyond physical health.\nEuwen shares how BGCBigs creates opportunities for youth to connect with others, try new things and discover what they're capable of. They discuss the challenges that can make participating in activities difficult, from the cost of equipment and transportation to not having someone available to cheer them on. Even small obstacles can make a difference in whether a young person gets the chance to participate.\nThroughout the conversation, Euwen explains how play can become a powerful way to build trust and teach important life lessons. Whether it's using basketball to help youth work through failure, celebrating personal milestones or introducing technology to make fitness more engaging, the focus is on helping each young person find what motivates them. Rather than expecting everyone to learn or participate in the same way, it's about meeting youth where they are and giving them the support to take their next step.\nHe also shares stories from his work with young people, including one student who gradually went from avoiding activities to actively seeking out new challenges. These experiences show how patience, encouragement and recognizing someone's effort can help build confidence and strengthen their connection to school and their community.\nThis episode highlights how meaningful change doesn't always begin with a major breakthrough. Sometimes, it starts with a game, a little encouragement or someone taking the time to show up. By making room for young people to participate, explore and grow at...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/FI-2dfnJWZg0REAasnKRPqMsM4SS-vmkhx1C7qkuNwY/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS8wMDli/NjQ3N2Q2MWMxZjJj/MTVjNzc2ODJhMjEw/NDk3NC5qcGc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}