February 7, 2017 (Brandon, Manitoba): In the face of critical financial challenges, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Brandon is reaching out to corporate and government partners as well as local residents for financial support to ensure that essential mentoring supports remain in Brandon, Manitoba and area. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Brandon has been a part of the Brandon, Manitoba community since 1972, providing many mentoring programs to children and youth for the past 45 years.
When the organization opened there was a definite need for mentors to help children in their community. Today, that need is even greater with many more children and youth in need of a mentor. Unfortunately, revenue has not kept up with program costs, and the demand for services has far exceeded the finances available to provide them. The only nationwide fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters is Bowl for Kid’s Sake, which used to raise $35,000 – $40,000 each spring. Last year only $7,000 was raised as fewer and fewer businesses and community groups have entered teams. “As a result of significant decreases in fundraising revenue, staffing was cut last year and certain programs that do not have designated sponsorship have not been running at all,” said Carla Davidson, Executive Director. “Today we turn to the community for support so that all young people in Brandon and surrounding areas can reach their full potential with the support of a mentor.”
Over 125 children and youth (ages 6 – 18) are part of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Brandon programs. In addition, 400 – 500 children are reached with gifts from the Big Brothers Big Sisters Christmas Tree at the Shoppers’ Mall and the Toyota Full of Toys. The agency has also had 13 youth receive $36,000 scholarships through the CIBC Youthvision Scholarship program and the agency selects the children that will attend Tim Horton’s Camps from Brandon and Virden. The agency continues to graciously accept donations and support from public and private sector partners as well as individuals throughout the region. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Brandon also serves the communities of Forrest, Rivers, Neepawa, Minnedosa, CFB Shilo, Douglas, Alexander, Wawanesa and Carberry with requests regularly from other communities to offer services.
ABOUT BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF BRANDON: For more information, please contact: NAME Carla Davidson
TITLE Executive Director
EMAIL carla.davidson@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca
PHONE 204-727-1787
