Big Brothers Big Sisters Celebrate a Century of Enriching Youth

2013 marks the 100th anniversary of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada. Today, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador extended congratulations and praised the organization for a century of inspiring and empowering children and youth through their mentoring programs.

“As a former volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters, I know the importance of this organization,” said the Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister Responsible for the Office of Public Engagement. “Through their mentoring programs, Big Brothers Big Sisters have inspired and shaped the growth and development of countless young minds in Newfoundland and Labrador. I would like to thank the organization and their many volunteers for their valuable role in the social and economic development of our province.”

Founded in 1913, Big Brothers Big Sisters has been making a positive difference in the lives of Canada’s youth by developing and implementing a wide range of mentoring programs. Volunteer mentors teach by example the importance of giving back, of staying in school and of respecting family, peers and community. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Newfoundland was established in 1975. Since 2003, the Provincial Government has contributed over $1.1 million to the local organization.

“We are extremely grateful for the support we’ve received from the Provincial Government and appreciate their continued commitment to supporting children and youth in our province,” said Kelly Leach, Executive Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Newfoundland. “This support is crucial to our agency and allows us to serve over 480 youth in the metro region each year.”

A recent report, conducted by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, confirmed that children with a mentor are significantly more confident in their academic abilities and considerably less likely to develop behavioral problems. One finding showed that boys and girls who have a mentor were two and four times less likely, respectively, to bully, fight, lie, or express anger than those without a mentor.

“As a government, under the leadership of Premier Dunderdale, we are pleased to be a partner of Big Brothers Big Sisters,” said Minister Hutchings. “I encourage others to give and support the work of Big Brothers Big Sisters. By investing in the development of our children and youth today, we are investing in a brighter and prosperous tomorrow for our communities and province.”

To volunteer or to find out more about Big Brothers Big Sisters visit www.helpingkids.ca or call 709-368-KIDS (5437).

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2013 02 11             1:15 p.m.