Big Brothers Big Sisters Invites Community to Join Mentorship Efforts

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Plains is reaching out to the community as it prepares for a new year of mentorship. The organization will host an open house on September 18, 2023, from 14:00 to 18:00 at its office located at 15 Tupper Street South. This event coincides with national Big Brothers Big Sisters Month, providing an opportunity for community members to discover how they can contribute to its impactful programs.

During the open house, attendees will have the chance to connect with staff, learn about volunteer opportunities, and understand the organization’s plans for the upcoming year. Dawn Froese, executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Plains, encourages anyone interested in mentorship or supporting local youth to attend. “If anyone has questions about it or they’re kind of curious, we would love them to stop by,” Froese said.

Engaging the Community with Mentorship Opportunities

The need for mentors remains critical as after-school and in-school mentoring programs are set to resume the third week of September. These programs require a commitment of just one hour a week throughout the school year. Froese emphasized that the open house is a low-pressure setting for potential volunteers to explore various roles, from mentoring to fundraising. “Coming and having a conversation does not commit you,” she noted. “If you hear what we’re saying and you think, ‘Oh, this isn’t quite for me,’ that’s fine. But have that conversation, that way you know for sure.”

One of the key fundraising events on the horizon is the second annual Winter Wonderland fundraiser scheduled for November. Volunteers will be needed for tasks such as decorating, running activities, and even playing Santa Claus. Froese highlighted that community involvement is vital to the success of such initiatives.

A Celebration of Community Support

The open house will feature refreshments provided by the Portage Community Revitalization Corporation (PCRC). This gathering will also serve as a platform for staff to share stories of the positive impact the organization has had on local youth and to express gratitude for ongoing community support.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Plains is committed to fostering meaningful relationships between mentors and young people. The organization believes that with greater community involvement, it can continue to make a significant difference in the lives of children and families. Those interested in learning more about mentorship opportunities or the open house can visit centralplains.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca.