As Comedian Yakov Smirnoff once said:  "Everybody laughs the same in every language because laughter is a universal connection."  

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.

 

Every year we have the opportunity to work with terrific schools and match Big Brothers and Big Sisters with Elementary School Littles. We like to take the opportunity to recognize those terrific School Liaisons, as they help us to serve more children each year.

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.

As word spreads about our current decision to halt enrollment in our traditional match program, we are thrilled to see community support for our programs.

While we ask our volunteering in the traditional match program to establish their friendship for one year, we often have matches that last much longer. Ronald and Curtis are one of our graduated matches. During the graduation ceremony help last April, Ron also received a 10 year tenure award from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada. Read on to learn more about Ron and Curtis' match.

With well over 100 submissions received for The BIG Picture contest by Mission Stream, winners were announced last Friday during Big Art in the City.

 

With 21 matches graduating we consider this to be one of the BIGgest rewards.
Congratulations to all our Bigs and Littles who graduated this year!