September is Big Brothers Big Sisters month both across Canada and in Yorkton and there is much to celebrate says Executive Director of the local branch, Irma Van De Bon.
"For thirty years Big Brothers Big Sisters of Yorkton and Area Inc. has created brighter futures for children and youth. 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," she said to Yorkton City Council members during a recent presentation.
"Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) is proven to improve children's odds for succeeding in school, behaving non-violently, increased self-esteem/self-worth, healthier lifestyles, evidence of higher incomes, avoiding drugs and alcohol, and breaking other negative cycles."
BBBS currently serves over 250 children annually through mentoring relationships mentoring in the communities of Yorkton, Melville, Churchbridge, Esterhazy and Langenburg. With that said, there are still many children on waiting list for a mentor says Van De Bon.
To help raise awareness throughout the month of September there are a number of activities and events planned to celebrate mentoring and expand mentoring programs, including a recently held flag raising in Yorkton.
"Thanks to Canadian Western Bank the Greater GIC Campaign every dollar you invest between September 1 and October 31 Canadian Western Bank will make a donation of 1/8 per cent to your local Big Brothers Big Sisters."
Additional events include a fundraising barbecue at the Yorkton Building Supply Grand Opening on September 18 and on September 19th BBBS will host Acklands Customer Appreciation event.
"We are grateful for these opportunities to be visible in the community in Big Brothers Big Sisters Month. They help in the recruitment of mentors for the many children waiting for a Big Brother Big Sister/Mentor."
On September 20 York Lake Golf and Country Club is hosting a golfing and canoe and kayak fun day for the older youth in our program.
"On September 21 thanks to a sponsorship we will be taking 20 youth to the Saskatchewan Roughrider Game. They are so excited and we already have a waiting list of more hoping to go. If anyone has a ticket they won't need for that day please let us know."
October 15 a special Mentoring Celebration has been planned to celebrate our BBBS's 30th anniversary and mentoring excellence in Yorkton and area.
"We invite you to join us for an inspirational and fun evening with our Guest of Honors Miss World Canada, Annora Bourgeault and Mr. World Canada, Jin Stewart with a Banquet, Volunteer Appreciation Awards and some Auction items. We would like to invite Mayor Bob Maloney as our guest and ask him to bring greetings on behalf of the City of Yorkton at our celebration.
"Big Brothers Big Sisters of Yorkton and Area is all about friends and making a difference in a child's life. We look forward to talking to you further about mentoring and the difference it makes in not only the child's life but in the community as a whole. You can help us to make a difference in the lives of so many children and "Start Something BIG."
To learn more call (306) 782-3471, email [email protected] or visit: www.bbbsyorkton.ca
