Big Brothers Big Sisters of Yorkton and Area have been recognized as one of the top three agencies in the country for providing volume of service to the local community.
Irma Van de Bon-Nichol, Executive Director of BBBS of Yorkton and Area says that the credit goes out to the communities, because it's the different communities in the area that makes it possible to do the world that they do. She says that the different communities in the region that they serve are the reason behind the success the organization has, whether it's people volunteering or supporting the major fundraising initiatives.
"We belong to a really awesome set of communities in the area that are really supportive of ensuring that our children have a brighter future... Everything we do is community based."
Continued support means that the region believes in what BBBS is doing and what they're accomplishing, and Van de Bon-Nichol says that they want to show people that they are making a difference in the lives of the area's kids. She extends thanks to everyone who helps spread the word about BBBS and helps them continue to do the work that they do.
"Thanks to all the media sources, because they show people that there's a need, and how that need can be met."
Van de Bon-Nichol says that another goal is to provide a positive volunteer experience, and she says this is something that they accomplish for the many people who work with the organization. She says that while it's about the kids, everyone involved benefits. She notes that one of their big success areas is in volunteer opportunities for teenagers. She notes that it helps them develop leadership skills and choose their careers, and it's making a big difference in their lives.
"High school students are coming to us for volunteer opportunities, because they're seeing the benefits in their peers."
The goal for this area is the goal for every BBBS organization, Van de Bon-Nichol says, and that's to serve kids. She says that they're proud of what they have accomplished in Yorkton, but their goal is to serve every kid who needs it. That's why they're always looking for mentors, and people who want to get involved they can call 306-782-3471 or visit www.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/yorkton.
"There are lots of children across Canada waiting for a mentor, and we do everything that we can to ensure that children from this area are served through mentoring, and there are still children on wait lists."
