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Despite shortening waitlist, big brothers still needed

Jan 14, 2018 | 11:26 AM

From hitting up a Raiders game to tinkering on the computer or just having someone to talk to, the Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Prince Albert mentoring program provides ample benefits for youth in the community.

And while the waitlist of boys and girls looking for mentors has been cut down to its lowest in some time, the call for male mentors remains, according to Natasha Thomson.

“We have 14 boys that are waiting … and there are 4 girls that are waiting,” the development coordinator for BBBS said. “This is the lowest I have seen it.”

Thomson credited the drop in children, known as littles, waiting for a match for mentors to a number of things, but in particular, the Power99 Community Air Time Award. Thomson said waitlists typically have between 25 and 30 littles.

“It has made a big difference in helping us match more children with mentors and raise awareness.”

Alongside urging more males to dedicate some time to the one-on-one mentorship program, Thomson said there is a new need for mentors to co-facilitate the organizations ‘Go Girls’ groups. This program is run after schools and targeted towards girls in Grade 5 to 7. It is designed to help girls learn how to hold a healthy self-image, act of living and to promote general positivity.

Those interested in volunteering as a mentor, knowns as bigs, simply need to be able to give a few hours at least a couple times a month and complete a criminal record check. Anyone over 18 can apply for the program. No experience is required as BBBS trains and supports mentors throughout the process.

“Mentoring does help children achieve their potential and it is a positive way to contribute to the communities well being,” she said. 

Some of the unique matches that were of interest for Thomson included a recent match diving into the world of geocaching and another who embarked on a canoe trip.

“Every match is unique … so the youth get an opportunity to try things in and around Prince Albert.”

There are also proven socioeconomic benefits that come with mentorship, according to Thomson.

“Every dollar invested in Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring generates a social return of at least $18,” she said, citing research of the organization’s programs across Canada. This return comes in a combination of savings in social programs and increased wages for the littles. 

“As they grow up, they are more likely to finish post-secondary school, more likely to be employed and are going to raise more than young people who didn’t [have mentors].”

While putting out the call for funding needs and fundraising events, Thomson made note of the next big happening for BBBS: Bowling for Kid’s Sake.

“In March, we are inviting people to put a team in and dress up for the crazy 80s costume challenge,” she said. “Come out for glow bowling, pizza and a great time for a great cause.”

Anyone interested in volunteering or participating in the Bowling for Kid’s Sake event an contact Thomson or the organization.

 

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