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Planet Fitness & BGC Canada Partner for Pink Shirt Day

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. tness-bgc-canada-partner-for-pink-shirt-day.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, February 16th 2026 at 9:46 GMT by Toronto Star
      Locales: Ontario, British Columbia, CANADA

TORONTO, February 16, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Planet Fitness Canada and BGC Canada announced today a collaborative partnership aimed at amplifying the message of kindness and inclusivity this Pink Shirt Day, observed annually on February 23rd, 2026. This initiative marks a significant commitment from both organizations to address the pervasive issue of bullying and foster supportive environments for young Canadians.

Planet Fitness Canada will be leveraging its extensive network of fitness clubs across the country to drive donations in support of BGC Canada's vital programs. Customers will have the opportunity to contribute at any Planet Fitness location, with 100% of funds raised directly benefiting BGC Canada's initiatives focused on youth development and bullying prevention. The partnership extends beyond a simple fundraising drive; it's a reinforcement of shared values centered on creating spaces where individuals feel safe, respected, and empowered.

"At Planet Fitness, we fundamentally believe that fitness is about more than just physical health--it's about mental and emotional wellbeing too," explained Kyle Jenkins, Senior Vice President of Marketing for Planet Fitness Canada. "Our 'Judgement Free Zone(R)' isn't just a slogan; it's a core tenet of our culture. We want everyone, regardless of their fitness level or background, to feel comfortable and confident pursuing their health goals. Partnering with BGC Canada to support Pink Shirt Day is a natural extension of that commitment. We see a strong synergy between our mission of fostering inclusivity and BGC Canada's work in empowering young people and combating bullying. We want to help build a generation that celebrates differences and stands up for what's right."

BGC Canada has been a cornerstone of youth support in Canada for decades, operating in over 120 communities and impacting the lives of more than 100,000 young people annually. Their programs aren't simply about providing a safe place to spend time; they focus on critical life skills development, mentorship, educational support, and positive social interaction. The organization proactively addresses bullying through workshops, peer support initiatives, and programs designed to cultivate empathy and respect.

"We are incredibly thrilled to join forces with Planet Fitness Canada for this year's Pink Shirt Day," stated Joanne Barnett, Executive Director of BGC Canada. "Bullying continues to be a major concern for young people, with devastating consequences for their mental health and overall wellbeing. Raising awareness is crucial, but it's equally important to provide young people with the tools and support they need to navigate challenging social situations and build resilience. Planet Fitness Canada's generous support will enable us to expand our programs and reach even more young people across the country, empowering them to become confident, compassionate, and engaged citizens."

The Growing Need for Bullying Prevention Programs

The rise in cyberbullying and the increasing complexity of social dynamics have amplified the need for robust bullying prevention programs. Studies show that a significant percentage of Canadian youth experience bullying in some form, whether it's physical, verbal, social, or online. The impact can be far-reaching, leading to anxiety, depression, social isolation, and even suicidal thoughts.

BGC Canada's approach focuses on preventative measures, teaching children and teens how to recognize bullying behaviors, develop assertiveness skills, and become active bystanders. These programs not only help victims but also address the root causes of bullying by promoting empathy and challenging harmful social norms.

Planet Fitness' Commitment to Community Wellbeing

Planet Fitness' commitment extends beyond simply providing affordable fitness options. The company actively engages in community outreach programs, partnering with organizations that share its values of inclusivity and empowerment. This partnership with BGC Canada is the latest example of their dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of Canadians. The Judgement Free Zone(R) aims to be more than a gym, striving to become a community hub where everyone feels welcome and supported.

How to Get Involved

Canadians can support Pink Shirt Day and BGC Canada's initiatives by:

• Donating at any Planet Fitness Canada location between now and February 23, 2026.
• Visiting the BGC Canada website ([ https://bgccanada.ca/ ]) to learn more about their programs and how to get involved.
• Wearing pink on February 23rd to show your support for bullying prevention.
• Sharing the message of kindness and inclusivity on social media using the hashtag #PinkShirtDay.

This partnership between Planet Fitness Canada and BGC Canada serves as a powerful reminder that we all have a role to play in creating a more inclusive and respectful society for our youth.