Yorkton's CFUW (Canadian Federation of University Women's) Club and Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) organization were brought to the forefront at the city's regular meeting of Yorkton City Council Monday evening. September 14 has been proclaimed CFUW Day in Yorkton and the month has also been declared as BBBS Month.
Recognized nationally, both organizations contribute to, and are active in the local community.
"Approximately $40,000 in scholarships is awarded to university students across Canada by the CFUW," says Bilkies McKen, President elect of the local CFUW club. "Grants are given to music and science festivals, early learning centers and other community endeavors."
By declaring September 14 as CFUW Day in the city, the club hopes to raise awareness of the organization and the commitment it has to Yorkton. The occasion will be marked with a meeting and a special guest speaker - Dr. Faye Myers, President of the Parkland College. All are welcome to attend the event which will take place at the college beginning at 7 p.m.
In addition to providing scholarships, the CFUW club has helped with the establishment of the local library, it was instrumental in bringing a recycling program to the city, and it regularly submits input to government on behalf of local residents.
The month of September will also be officially recognized as BBBS Month in Yorkton.
"We appreciate the opportunity to be more visible in our community with additional publicity helping to recruit mentors/volunteers to assist us as we implement mentoring programs to best suit the needs of the children," says Irma Van De Bon, Executive Director of the local organization.
For over 28 years BBBS of Yorkton and area has been making a positive difference in the lives of youth through its programs. "Each time we pair a child with a mentor or introduce a group of students to an in-school program, we start something incredible - a life changing relationship built on friendship, trust and empowerment. Unlocking a child's true potential creates a future where anything is possible," says Van De Bon.
"We believe that by changing the course of young lives we can in turn be changing the course of a community's future. That it could lead to a reduction in poverty and unemployment, to safer schools and neighborhoods, and to a renewed optimism for growth."
Throughout the month a number of activities have been planned including a special flag raising event planned for September 5 at 10 a.m. at City Hall. On September 8 Sobeys is sponsoring a barbecue for BBBS and the organization is planning its first ever DIVA for a Day Charity Golf Tournament slated for September 14 at Deer Park Golf Course. Making the event more memorable, a caddy can be chosen at a Caddie Auction event set for Thursday, September 13 at 7:30 p.m. where 24 caddies will be auctioned off.
To learn more visit: www.bbbsyorkton.ca or call 782-3471.
