On Monday September 5^th, Chicago Blackhawk forward Bryan Bickell hosted a pick-up ball hockey afternoon in the parking lot of BBBSO to help local youth in need of an adult mentor.

Volunteer Canada writes "Canada's volunteers are real-life superheroes who accomplish remarkable feats with real impact. They may not be faster than a speeding bullet. And they may not be able to leap tall buildings in a single bound. But their contributions are most definitely creating community change that is more powerful than a locomotive!" This is the perfect description for the roles our volunteers play at Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa!

 Over the past several years Cisco has developed a solid relationship with Big Brothers Big Sisters across Canada.  Locally, Cisco has been involved on many levels providing sponsorship for BBBSO's Big Art event, Big Apprenticeship and 40^th Anniversary last year. Cisco believes in the future of our youth and proves that by continually helping Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa to provide the support to help children develop into future leaders.  

 Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa (BBBSO) is never at a loss for volunteers. With over 500 volunteers annually, countless hours are given to children in need of a positive role model. Many of our volunteers feel that outrageous displays of recognition are not needed but their value is too important to overlook which is why we are pleased to announce the 2011 Mentors of the Year.

 

Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa (BBBSO) 3^rd annual Big Wrap Up was held on June 8, 2011 at the Delta Ottawa City Centre. With the incredible panoramic view of the city from the Penthouse it is the ideal setting to celebrate the agency's achievements, match friendship and volunteer dedication.  

The agency's strong staff team is what greatly attributes to the success of our mentoring programs. It's hard to believe that two years has already passed since Robert Eves, Executive Director, and Cindy Smith, Senior Director of Resource Development, were hired as part of the BBBSO management team.

Many special friendships are formed through our mentoring programs.  Our Bigs and Littles in our programs all share a common bond.  A friendship that lasts well beyond our required one year. They share a friendship that stands the test of time, with laughter, compassion, fun, and sometimes sadness.

Tracy Moore has been part of our team since May 2008. It takes a patient, organized and dedicated person to run our Meet You In School (MYIS) program because of the stringent timelines and various elements. Over the last two years, Tracy has proven herself to be the right person for the job.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa (BBBSO) relies on the support of many stakeholders to ensure that children in Ottawa have the opportunity to create special friendships. We are always grateful to the many volunteers who devote their time, energy, compassion and enthusiasm.

In 2008, Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa (BBBSO) created its first Ambassador group. This group made up of Bigs, Littles, parents and other supporters is out in the community sharing stories and increasing awareness all year round. We have had Ambassadors speak at Parliament, during the United Way/City of Ottawa golf tournament, at various companies, during our Board Meetings and more.