“Life-changing” are two very powerful words that accurately describe the impact Big Brothers Big Sisters have on young people in our community who face adversity, and require a supplementary, consistent, and caring developmental relationship.
Here is a Q & A with Christine Drury, Fundraising & Development Coordinator, and Marianne Arbour, Executive Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Barrie & District.
What type of commitment does Big Brothers Big Sisters require from its volunteers?
We have a variety of 5 mentoring programs for volunteers to get involved in. The time commitment to be a mentor is as little as one hour per week for our school-based programs, and up to three hours per week as a Big Brother or Big Sister mentor.
Who benefits from this program?
We support young people who face adversity and need an additional, consistent, and supportive developmental relationship. The kids range in age from 6-18.
In 2018, we served almost 650 young people in our mentoring programs. Our waiting list continues to grow, and volunteers are needed to help positively impact a child’s life.
How have past Big Brothers Big Sisters grown and evolved because of this association?
Past Little Brothers and Little Sisters have returned to become Big Brothers or Big Sisters and/or volunteer with our agency in other capacities. In some cases, they still have a relationship with their former Big and have kept in touch for years. We often hear because of their relationship with their Big, they felt motivated to continue onto post secondary education, give back to the community, and decided what their career path would be. The Bigs feel quite gratified for having been a small part in helping this way.
Tell me how Big Brothers Big Sisters can enrich someone’s life? How can people get involved?
Our mentors tell us time and time again they get involved to help out kids, but the benefits they receive from the mentoring relationship far outweigh what they give.
As a non-profit organization, we raise almost 100% of our funds through community partnerships, and five annual special event fundraisers: Bowl, Golf and Curl for Kids Sake, The Big Bash, and our Showcase of Homes Tour.
You can get involved by calling the office at 705-728-0515, or visit our website and start the conversation: barrie.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca
BBBS enables life-changing mentoring relationships to ignite the power and potential of young people. Our vision is that all young people realize their full potential.
“My life is better for having my Little Sister in it” – BIG SISTER
