Monday, November 15, 2010
Counting all “seasoned” service volunteers
Counting all “seasoned” service volunteers. Whether you are a Big Brother, Big Sister, In School Mentor, Soar volunteer we want your input. On November 24, 2010 6:00pm – 7:30 pm we are hosting a volunteer forum for volunteers who have been with Big Brothers Big Sisters for one year or more. The evening will be informal and facilitated by Anne Bermingham and Michael Howes of 2WA Consulting. Anne and Michael will be focusing in on questions which will help us become more aware of our volunteers and how they see this organization now and in the future...can we count you in...PLEASE? Please register by emailing Marianne@callbigbrothers.com or calling 905-525-3860 x 312
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
JUMP START
A HUGE thank you to Jumpstart for all they do for the kids at Big Brothers Big
Sisters of Hamilton and Burlington.
Since 2005 when Jump Start was piloted in the Niagara region, Jump Start has grown nation wide and has provided a number of Little Brothers Little Sisters with opportunities of sport and recreation. Jump Start is a registered charity that helps financially disadvantaged families in times of need to get kids involved within their community with a the goal of keeping kids active.
Research has proven that participation in sport and recreation does increase a child’s chance of success in life through:
• A healthier lifestyle;
• Increased self-esteem and confidence;
• Opportunity to learn important leadership skills;
• Improved school performance and future education expectations;
• More positive relationships and strengthened support networks.
Any current client of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hamilton and Burlington may be eligible for funding of a sport or recreational program. Funding will only be granted for one activity per season per child (Spring-Summer) or (Fall – Winter). A maximum grant amount of $300.00 may be available which should be considered in choosing the activity / sport of choice.
Applications for funding are to be completed by the parent and they are available at any time by contacting the Case Manager/ Worker who will lead you through the process. The first submission for Spring and Summer 2011 programs will be March 1st then the 1st of each month ending on June 24th 2011. Submission for Fall 2011 – Winter 2011-2012 will be accepted starting in July 2011 and ending on October 31st 2011.
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
Big Brothers Big Sisters programs give young people a helping hand to reach their full potential and become confident, caring adults.
All this, through a simple act of friendship!
There are many ways you can support our mentoring programs:
● Volunteer to be a Big
● Participate in a fund raising campaign (like Bowl for Kids Sake)
● Become a donor and help build a friendship
● Offer your expertise to a committee or event team
● Become a corporate partner
Sisters of Hamilton and Burlington.
Since 2005 when Jump Start was piloted in the Niagara region, Jump Start has grown nation wide and has provided a number of Little Brothers Little Sisters with opportunities of sport and recreation. Jump Start is a registered charity that helps financially disadvantaged families in times of need to get kids involved within their community with a the goal of keeping kids active.
Research has proven that participation in sport and recreation does increase a child’s chance of success in life through:
• A healthier lifestyle;
• Increased self-esteem and confidence;
• Opportunity to learn important leadership skills;
• Improved school performance and future education expectations;
• More positive relationships and strengthened support networks.
Any current client of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hamilton and Burlington may be eligible for funding of a sport or recreational program. Funding will only be granted for one activity per season per child (Spring-Summer) or (Fall – Winter). A maximum grant amount of $300.00 may be available which should be considered in choosing the activity / sport of choice.
Applications for funding are to be completed by the parent and they are available at any time by contacting the Case Manager/ Worker who will lead you through the process. The first submission for Spring and Summer 2011 programs will be March 1st then the 1st of each month ending on June 24th 2011. Submission for Fall 2011 – Winter 2011-2012 will be accepted starting in July 2011 and ending on October 31st 2011.
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
Big Brothers Big Sisters programs give young people a helping hand to reach their full potential and become confident, caring adults.
All this, through a simple act of friendship!
There are many ways you can support our mentoring programs:
● Volunteer to be a Big
● Participate in a fund raising campaign (like Bowl for Kids Sake)
● Become a donor and help build a friendship
● Offer your expertise to a committee or event team
● Become a corporate partner
GAME ON
Introducing our newest program...Game On!
Developed for male
adolescents, Game On! uses a mentor approach to provide boys and young men with information and support to make
informed choices
about a range of
healthy lifestyle
practices. Through nontraditional,
physical activities and
encouragement to live a healthy
lifestyle, participants learn important
life skills, better communication skills and tactics
to improve emotional well-being.
Developed for male
adolescents, Game On! uses a mentor approach to provide boys and young men with information and support to make
informed choices
about a range of
healthy lifestyle
practices. Through nontraditional,
physical activities and
encouragement to live a healthy
lifestyle, participants learn important
life skills, better communication skills and tactics
to improve emotional well-being.
Introducing our 2010/2011 Board of Directors.
Darren Gillis Chair
Mike Worster Past Chair
Matthew McIsaac 2nd Vice Chair
Odette Barnicki Director
Kanata Cowan Director
Patricia Gonsalves Treasurer
Douglas Green 1st Vice Chair
John Stewart Director
Chantel Broten Director
David Duncan Director
Marianne Noakes Ex-Officio
Jay Llewellyn Director
Brian Puddington Director
Mike Worster Past Chair
Matthew McIsaac 2nd Vice Chair
Odette Barnicki Director
Kanata Cowan Director
Patricia Gonsalves Treasurer
Douglas Green 1st Vice Chair
John Stewart Director
Chantel Broten Director
David Duncan Director
Marianne Noakes Ex-Officio
Jay Llewellyn Director
Brian Puddington Director
CALLING ALL "NEW" VOLUNTEERS
Calling all “new” volunteers aged 18-24 – give us your report card. Tell us how we are doing; tell us how you would like to see us change to be better responsive to you as a volunteer. On November 25, 2010 from 5:30pm - 7:00 pm we are hosting a volunteer forum for younger volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters. The evening will be informal and facilitated by Anne Bermingham and Michael Howes of 2WA Consulting. Anne and Michael will be focusing in on questions which will help us become more aware of our volunteers and how they see this organization now and in the future...can we count you in...PLEASE?
Should we be tweeting? Should we communicate more using technology? Is it weird to have your Casemanager actually “call you on the phone”? Tell us! Please register by emailing Marianne@callbigbrothers.com
Should we be tweeting? Should we communicate more using technology? Is it weird to have your Casemanager actually “call you on the phone”? Tell us! Please register by emailing Marianne@callbigbrothers.com
UNITED WAY
United Way of Burlington and Greater Hamilton has strengthened lives by bringing together the financial resources of our cities—business, labour, individuals, government, and foundations—in support of a network of social services and health agencies. Through these agencies and their programs, people found help and, in many cases, opportunity for a better life. Big Brothers Big Sisters is one such agency. Without United Way there would be no way for us to deliver the volume of services we are able to in our communities. We urge you to support the United Way
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Volunteer Opportunity
I am currently looking for volunteers in the following areas, social work, law, insurance, human resources and financial management. We have struck a risk management committee with an eye on examining our current practice in the areas above and being pro-active in avoiding risk for clients, volunteers and the organization. The commitment would be short term and limited to one or two meetings in the coming year. If you can spare a few hours and have an interest in helping us in this way, please email me at Marianne@callbigbrothers.com for more information
LITTLE ARTIST NEEDED
‘If your ‘little’ is interested in painting something to be displayed on the walls of Big Brothers Big Sisters, then bring them out to the Coach House (in the basement of the Big Brothers Big Sisters office) on either Thursday January 13th, Tuesday January 18th, or Thursday January 20th or better yet, bring them all three evenings! We have several canvases to be painted, and a volunteer to make frames, so come on out and unleash that inner Picasso!
Have you been to the Big Brothers Big Sisters office lately? If you have, I’m sure that you noticed that we need some decorations on our walls! We thought, “Who better to decorate them than the kids in our programs?” If these evenings don’t work for you and your little, but you would like to contribute – contact Kim at kirish@callbigbrothers.com she’ll hook you up with a canvas to make your masterpiece.
Have you been to the Big Brothers Big Sisters office lately? If you have, I’m sure that you noticed that we need some decorations on our walls! We thought, “Who better to decorate them than the kids in our programs?” If these evenings don’t work for you and your little, but you would like to contribute – contact Kim at kirish@callbigbrothers.com she’ll hook you up with a canvas to make your masterpiece.
MARK YOUR CALENDER FOR TIM HORTONS BOWL FOR KIDS SAKE
Event Dates
Saturday March 5th 4-6 p.m. at Splitsville
Wednesday March 9th, 6-8 p.m. Prime Time
Wednesday March 23rd, 6-8 p.m. Splitsville
Saturday March 26th, 4-6 p.m. Splitsville
Wednesday March 30th, 6-8 p.m. Prime Time
Thanks to our amazing and generous title partner Tim Hortons, incentive partner Best Buy Burlington and Boston Pizza we the coolest incentives around.
Keep your eye on http://www.callbigbrothers.com/ for ongoing event details, or better yet, call Bob at 905-525-3860 x 308 / rsalac@callbigbrothers.com to volunteer.
Saturday March 5th 4-6 p.m. at Splitsville
Wednesday March 9th, 6-8 p.m. Prime Time
Wednesday March 23rd, 6-8 p.m. Splitsville
Saturday March 26th, 4-6 p.m. Splitsville
Wednesday March 30th, 6-8 p.m. Prime Time
Thanks to our amazing and generous title partner Tim Hortons, incentive partner Best Buy Burlington and Boston Pizza we the coolest incentives around.
Keep your eye on http://www.callbigbrothers.com/ for ongoing event details, or better yet, call Bob at 905-525-3860 x 308 / rsalac@callbigbrothers.com to volunteer.
With the help of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Hamilton & Burlington chapter Jason and Bazil found one another.
Jason had been told by his brother about the shortage of Big Brothers and Big Sisters in the Hamilton and Burlington area. There just weren’t enough adults to mentor the young population in need.
So at the age of 31 Jason decided to give back to the community and became a Big Brother at the Big Brother Big Sister organization in Hamilton, ON. That is when he was matched with his 13 year old “little brother” Bazil.
Bazil, who is originally from Zimbabwe, does not have any siblings at home. Before meeting Jason he often found that he was alone and did not get involved in many activitie that is where Jason came to the rescue for young Bazil.
Bazil has been able to learn all about hockey, web designing and traveling from his big brother. Jason has taught his little brother how to rollerblade, which has become one of Bazil’s favorite pass times during the summer. Skating has not been isolated to pavement for these two. One of Jason’s favorite memories is when he took Bazil ice skating for the first time ever. Despite being from a warm climate, Bazil loved ice-skating!
It isn’t all fun and games for this pair. Jason has also been able to be a mentor for Bazil. Particularly with math, Jason has been able to help his little brother through his struggles with fractions.
Bazil’s favorite part of having Jason as his big brother is having someone to turn to when he is having a problem. He has someone he can relate to and trust to give him good advice.
When asked what being a Big Brother meant to Jason, this is what he had to say:.
“I really enjoy having Bazil as a Little brother. After 9 months of spending time together, I find that he is opening up more and more each time we meet up. Generally, he is a quiet and shy child to people he is not familiar with. But once you get to know him you see a side of him that is inquisitive, thoughtful and active. What's interesting is that our relationship involves mutual exchange of teaching and learning. I remember the first day we got together, we went to the library and sat in front of the computer where he began introducing me to the various types of transport trucks. He began naming the make and model of each transport truck and what the difference between each were. I remember thinking, "wow I'm learning so much, shouldn't I be the one to pass on knowledge to him?". You can tell he has a passion for transport trucks. I recently asked him what he liked most about having me in his life and he responded saying that he liked having someone he can turn to besides his mother. He has a sister who is married and lives in Hamilton and another sister who lives in England so to connect with them is difficult. I was surprised to hear what an impact I have had in the time we've been together but to have him articulate it meant a great deal to me. I got involved with the BBBS looking to help out but I never thought my life could be enriched the way that it has been.”
This pair is a great example of how important it is for a young person to have a positive role model in their life. All it takes a little bit of your time to make a world of difference.
Jason had been told by his brother about the shortage of Big Brothers and Big Sisters in the Hamilton and Burlington area. There just weren’t enough adults to mentor the young population in need.
So at the age of 31 Jason decided to give back to the community and became a Big Brother at the Big Brother Big Sister organization in Hamilton, ON. That is when he was matched with his 13 year old “little brother” Bazil.
Bazil, who is originally from Zimbabwe, does not have any siblings at home. Before meeting Jason he often found that he was alone and did not get involved in many activitie that is where Jason came to the rescue for young Bazil.
Bazil has been able to learn all about hockey, web designing and traveling from his big brother. Jason has taught his little brother how to rollerblade, which has become one of Bazil’s favorite pass times during the summer. Skating has not been isolated to pavement for these two. One of Jason’s favorite memories is when he took Bazil ice skating for the first time ever. Despite being from a warm climate, Bazil loved ice-skating!
It isn’t all fun and games for this pair. Jason has also been able to be a mentor for Bazil. Particularly with math, Jason has been able to help his little brother through his struggles with fractions.
Bazil’s favorite part of having Jason as his big brother is having someone to turn to when he is having a problem. He has someone he can relate to and trust to give him good advice.
When asked what being a Big Brother meant to Jason, this is what he had to say:.
“I really enjoy having Bazil as a Little brother. After 9 months of spending time together, I find that he is opening up more and more each time we meet up. Generally, he is a quiet and shy child to people he is not familiar with. But once you get to know him you see a side of him that is inquisitive, thoughtful and active. What's interesting is that our relationship involves mutual exchange of teaching and learning. I remember the first day we got together, we went to the library and sat in front of the computer where he began introducing me to the various types of transport trucks. He began naming the make and model of each transport truck and what the difference between each were. I remember thinking, "wow I'm learning so much, shouldn't I be the one to pass on knowledge to him?". You can tell he has a passion for transport trucks. I recently asked him what he liked most about having me in his life and he responded saying that he liked having someone he can turn to besides his mother. He has a sister who is married and lives in Hamilton and another sister who lives in England so to connect with them is difficult. I was surprised to hear what an impact I have had in the time we've been together but to have him articulate it meant a great deal to me. I got involved with the BBBS looking to help out but I never thought my life could be enriched the way that it has been.”
This pair is a great example of how important it is for a young person to have a positive role model in their life. All it takes a little bit of your time to make a world of difference.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
BIG CHANGES AT BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS
We are delighted to share the news that our Hamilton office is currently under construction and things are looking GREAT! Thanks to a grant from the Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario under the infrastructure initiative we have had the opportunity to upgrade our Hamilton location to ensure that it is a safe and healthy environment for our volunteers, clients and staff and a facility that they can be proud of.
The implications in the immediate future are that we have closed the coach house from use by our volunteers on an individual basis. Your key no longer works! At the present time, with all the construction it is not a safe place to bring children. We will be announcing in the near future a new and updated coach house use policy.
Watch for our grand re-opening and re-dedication ceremonies coming upon completion of the renovations.
Office visits and group programming will not be affected by this change in coach house use.
Congratulations to our golf committee who led and celebrated a successful tournament in June. Your work on behalf of the children in our programs is very much appreciated. Also thanks to the work of our staff, and summer staff our Summer Buddies program was a resounding success.
The Board of Directors of this agency has engaged with staff and volunteers to complete a new strategic plan in the fall of 2010 which will be the roadmap for this organization into the future. We are excited about this promising new look at our organization.
In November of this year our organization will complete an accreditation process through our National Organization, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada. As a volunteer or parent you may be called on to answer questions relative to your experience as a program participant. Calls will be placed randomly to both families and volunteers.
I am currently looking for volunteers in the following areas, social work, law, insurance, human resources and financial management. We have struck a risk management committee with an eye on examining our current practice in the areas above and being pro-active in avoiding risk for clients, volunteers and the organization. The commitment would be short term and limited to one or two meetings in the coming year. If you can spare a few hours and have an interest in helping us in this way, please email me at Marianne@callbigbrothers.com for more information.
Congratulations to our Promise Scholarship, Project Hope and CIBC Youthvision winners. We are proud of you!
Marianne Noakes
Executive Director
The implications in the immediate future are that we have closed the coach house from use by our volunteers on an individual basis. Your key no longer works! At the present time, with all the construction it is not a safe place to bring children. We will be announcing in the near future a new and updated coach house use policy.
Watch for our grand re-opening and re-dedication ceremonies coming upon completion of the renovations.
Office visits and group programming will not be affected by this change in coach house use.
Congratulations to our golf committee who led and celebrated a successful tournament in June. Your work on behalf of the children in our programs is very much appreciated. Also thanks to the work of our staff, and summer staff our Summer Buddies program was a resounding success.
The Board of Directors of this agency has engaged with staff and volunteers to complete a new strategic plan in the fall of 2010 which will be the roadmap for this organization into the future. We are excited about this promising new look at our organization.
In November of this year our organization will complete an accreditation process through our National Organization, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada. As a volunteer or parent you may be called on to answer questions relative to your experience as a program participant. Calls will be placed randomly to both families and volunteers.
I am currently looking for volunteers in the following areas, social work, law, insurance, human resources and financial management. We have struck a risk management committee with an eye on examining our current practice in the areas above and being pro-active in avoiding risk for clients, volunteers and the organization. The commitment would be short term and limited to one or two meetings in the coming year. If you can spare a few hours and have an interest in helping us in this way, please email me at Marianne@callbigbrothers.com for more information.
Congratulations to our Promise Scholarship, Project Hope and CIBC Youthvision winners. We are proud of you!
Marianne Noakes
Executive Director
2010 United Way Campaign
Just around the corner, as the kids get back to school, and the arena temperature is turned down, the United Way fundraising campaign kicks off.
As in previous years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hamilton & Burlington ( funded in part by United Way ) will be pitching in. A Haunted House at Burlington’s Village Square
( Halloween weekend ) and also some events that will be specific to the agency will take place. If you are interested in assisting with these events or if you are interested in attending, check our website www.callbigbrothers.com periodically for further details or follow us on Facebook.
As in previous years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hamilton & Burlington ( funded in part by United Way ) will be pitching in. A Haunted House at Burlington’s Village Square
( Halloween weekend ) and also some events that will be specific to the agency will take place. If you are interested in assisting with these events or if you are interested in attending, check our website www.callbigbrothers.com periodically for further details or follow us on Facebook.
Throughout the fall of 2010
Throughout the fall of 2010 we will be having a presence
with recruitment booths at various events, attending fairs,
hosting new events and continuing to spread the word that
mentoring works! If you would like us to come and speak
with members of your organization, or work placewe would be delighted
to arrange a presentation. Please contact Laura Hickerson
at Laura@callbigbrothers.com or 905-525-3860 x 310.
On the flip side, we often get requests to speak on behalf of
United Way and we are looking for volunteers to assist in this way.
United Way has arranged for speaker training at the beginning
of September. If you would be willing to speak on our behalf
and take speakers training from United Way please contact
Laura Hickerson at Laura@callbigbrothers.com or 905-525-3860
X 310.
BE A BIG IN A SCHOOL NEAR YOU!
Becoming a mentor is good for your
health. That’s the conclusion of a
recent study conducted by researchers at
the Johns Hopkins’ Bloomberg School of
Public Health. The study concluded that,
“seniors participating in a youth mentoring
program made gains in key brain regions
that support cognitive abilities important
to planning and organizing one’s daily
life.” In short, mentoring keeps you sharp!
Are you retired or semi-retired and want to stay active?
We have a program that will fit your schedule.
Call us today. 905-525-3860
with recruitment booths at various events, attending fairs,
hosting new events and continuing to spread the word that
mentoring works! If you would like us to come and speak
with members of your organization, or work placewe would be delighted
to arrange a presentation. Please contact Laura Hickerson
at Laura@callbigbrothers.com or 905-525-3860 x 310.
On the flip side, we often get requests to speak on behalf of
United Way and we are looking for volunteers to assist in this way.
United Way has arranged for speaker training at the beginning
of September. If you would be willing to speak on our behalf
and take speakers training from United Way please contact
Laura Hickerson at Laura@callbigbrothers.com or 905-525-3860
X 310.
BE A BIG IN A SCHOOL NEAR YOU!
Becoming a mentor is good for your
health. That’s the conclusion of a
recent study conducted by researchers at
the Johns Hopkins’ Bloomberg School of
Public Health. The study concluded that,
“seniors participating in a youth mentoring
program made gains in key brain regions
that support cognitive abilities important
to planning and organizing one’s daily
life.” In short, mentoring keeps you sharp!
Are you retired or semi-retired and want to stay active?
We have a program that will fit your schedule.
Call us today. 905-525-3860
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
For those looking for support in relationships, or dealing with separation and divorce, you may want to take advantage of some of the programs listed below. These programs are not organized by Big Brothers Big Sisters, but rather, by various community groups.
Level 1—Learning to Cope—a self help support group
Tuesdays, September 14-November 16, 2010—7:00 pm—9:30 pm (a 10 week program)
700 King St. W., Hamilton
Diocesan Office for Ministry, Family &Religious Education
Chancery Office
Contact: 905-528-7988, ext. 2249
Cost--$35.00
Keys to Loving Relationships
A program for those wanting to improve their relationship skills.
Thursdays—September 16 to November 18, 2010
7:00 PM to 9:00 pm
Diocesan Office for Ministry, Family & Religious Education
700 King St. W., Hamilton
Chancery Office
Contact: 905-528-7988, ext. 2249
Cost--$45.00 per person
Support Group for Separated and Divorced
St. Patrick’s Parish
440 King St. E; Hamilton
1st and 3rd Fridays of each month—7:30 pm
Contact: Darlene—905-522-6880
New Beginnings—A weekend for Separated, Divorced or Widowed Persons
Through the:
Diocesan Office for Ministry, Family a& Religious Education
Chancery Office
700 King St. W. , Hamilton
Contact: 905-528-7988, ext. 2249
omfre@hamiltondiocese.com
registration deadline is November 19, 2010
Weekend of November 26, 27 & 28, 2010
At Mount Mary Retreat Centre
Cost--$175.00
Level 1—Learning to Cope—a self help support group
Tuesdays, September 14-November 16, 2010—7:00 pm—9:30 pm (a 10 week program)
700 King St. W., Hamilton
Diocesan Office for Ministry, Family &Religious Education
Chancery Office
Contact: 905-528-7988, ext. 2249
Cost--$35.00
Keys to Loving Relationships
A program for those wanting to improve their relationship skills.
Thursdays—September 16 to November 18, 2010
7:00 PM to 9:00 pm
Diocesan Office for Ministry, Family & Religious Education
700 King St. W., Hamilton
Chancery Office
Contact: 905-528-7988, ext. 2249
Cost--$45.00 per person
Support Group for Separated and Divorced
St. Patrick’s Parish
440 King St. E; Hamilton
1st and 3rd Fridays of each month—7:30 pm
Contact: Darlene—905-522-6880
New Beginnings—A weekend for Separated, Divorced or Widowed Persons
Through the:
Diocesan Office for Ministry, Family a& Religious Education
Chancery Office
700 King St. W. , Hamilton
Contact: 905-528-7988, ext. 2249
omfre@hamiltondiocese.com
registration deadline is November 19, 2010
Weekend of November 26, 27 & 28, 2010
At Mount Mary Retreat Centre
Cost--$175.00
Thank You Ministry Promotion and the Healthy Community Fund
The Ministry of Health Promotion and the Healthy Community Fund has granted Big Brothers Big Sisters two year funding to support our newest program Game On! Game On will be formatted similarly to our popular Go Girls program which runs two one-hour sessions each week for duration of seven to ten weeks. The sessions take place in selected schools and focus on physical activity, healthy eating/nutrition and self-esteem/communication skills. With the support of the Healthy Communities Fund this program will begin in the fall of 2010.
Thank You Sport Chek
Thank you Sport Chek for supporting Go Girls and Game On with a generous donation to buy much needed sporting equipment. This donation was made possible by the hard work of Sport Check employees, customers and corporate offices. On behalf of Go Girls and Game On participants - THANK YOU!
Thursday, May 13, 2010
MEET OUR BBBS STAFF
Each Staff member was asked
- what do you see as your role within the agency
- something personal you would like to share
- your vision for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hamilton and Burlington
Rosalie Wilson
Rosalie Wilson
Administration
Rosalie is the agency expert on Razer’s Edge. She processes applications and inputs receipts and letters for donations.
Rosalie is a mother of three, and enjoys reading, watching good movies, exercise and being physically active. Rosalie wants Big Brothers Big Sisters to be recognized as the organization for mentoring in Hamilton and Burlington.
Kim Irish
Kim Irish
Case Worker/ Soar
Kim is a new case manager to the agency, and has a small case load. She screens and interviews both families and volunteers. As well, Kim will work with the Go Girls program while Lisa is on maternity leave.
Kim is a recent graduate from McMaster University. She enjoys traveling has recently begun playing hockey (something she had always wanted to do) with the encouragement of Rebecca and Bob.
Kim would like to see the day when there is no wait-list at Big Brothers Big Sisters, and every child who needs a mentor, has a mentor!
Vicki Farthing
Vicki Farthing
Intake Case Worker
Vicki is the intake Case Worker for all ‘Little’ applicants. She is also the photocopier expert and the office administrator.
Vicki went back to school in her 40’s and believes that everybody can achieve their goals at any age. She did her placement here and loved it so much that she stuck around!
Vicki hopes to have all the kids on the waitlist matched thus eliminating the waitlist.
Joyce Mullally
Joyce Mullally
Bookkeeper
Joyce is the Bookkeeper for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hamilton and Burlington.
Joyce is looking forward to retirement in the next few years in hopes that she will finally have the time to do all of the things that she doesn’t have time to do now.
Joyce would like to see Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hamilton and Burlington be successful in maintaining their goals of helping children in the community and have the funds available to do it!
Michelle Cleugh
Case Worker
Michelle has been with Big Brothers Big Sisters for nineteen years. She is a Case Worker in the traditional program. Michelle says that the best part of her job is when she calls a Little to tell them that she has a Big waiting for them. Michelle loves the relationship part of being a Case Manager.
Michelle is a full-time mom of two who loves spending time with her husband and kids. Michelle wants to make a difference by having an impact on the lives of children by providing great mentors where enriching, life changing experiences happen.
Miriam Oda
Miriam Oda
Case Manager - ISM
Miriam has worked at BBBS since September 1996. The ISM Program is very close to her heart. Miriam considers herself to be a creative and organized person. Among many of her personal interests she enjoys traveling, photography, cooking, reading and scrapbooking.
Miriam echos the vision of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada—whose own vision is that every child who needs a mentor gets a mentor. Miriam would like to see every school in Hamilton and Burlington have the ISM Program or other school based programs that can help kids who might not otherwise get a Big Brother or Big Sister.
Rebecca Hart
Rebecca Hart
Case Manager
Rebecca is a Case Manager in the traditional matching program. She screens volunteers, assesses families’ needs, facilitates training sessions for volunteers, matches children to volunteers and monitors those friendships. At the moment, she is the Case Manager for 92 friendships.
Rebecca enjoys playing hockey, and has been playing defense for the same team for the past fourteen years. She is a strong advocate for females in sport.
Rebecca would like to eradicate the waiting list for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hamilton and Burlington. She would like to see every child who needs a mentor, have a mentor!
Helen Metz
Helen Metz
Case Manager
Helen is the Case Manager for Burlington. She interviews and screens volunteers and families. She matches and monitors Bigs and Littles in Burlington, Dundas, Waterdown, and Carlisle.
Helen is a mother and a grandmother and declares this as her claim to fame!
Helen would like to see more government funding for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hamilton and Burlington because it is an excellent program! She believes that matching has the potential to make a significant difference in the life of a child, as well as making the volunteer feel good.
Laura Hickerson
Laura Hickerson
Director of Communications
Laura has been in the Not for Profit world for over fifteen years and joined the Big Brothers Big Sisters team in July 2006. In her role as the Director of Communications, Laura is responsible for managing existing special events, securing new financial resources for services and recruiting new volunteers through marketing campaigns and partnerships. She enjoys being part of the BBBS team, spending time with family , friends and her garden. Laura hopes that we as an agency continue to be innovative, proactive and true to our mission as we continue to expand services to the children and families in the Hamilton and Burlington areas.
Greg Whelan
Greg Whelan
Director of Service
As Director of Services Greg’s responsibilities are varied but none more important than the oversight of the program offerings ensuring that the delivery of our services are in compliance with Big Brother Big Sister of Canada child safety standards and BBBS of Hamilton & Burlington governing policies.
Greg’s first exposure to Big Brothers Big Sisters occurred in February 1979 when he was hired by a discrete Big Sister agency in Welland to work as a Parents Group Coordinator. Not soon after he was matched to his first Little Brother. In 1989 Greg was hired as the Executive Director of Big Brothers of South Niagara. Michael remains a huge part of his life and that of his family and for that he has been truly blessed.
For Big Brothers Big Sisters Greg sees a period of program innovation coming forward creating partnerships with like minded groups to capture those who may be overlooked by current service offerings..
Director of Service
As Director of Services Greg’s responsibilities are varied but none more important than the oversight of the program offerings ensuring that the delivery of our services are in compliance with Big Brother Big Sister of Canada child safety standards and BBBS of Hamilton & Burlington governing policies.
Greg’s first exposure to Big Brothers Big Sisters occurred in February 1979 when he was hired by a discrete Big Sister agency in Welland to work as a Parents Group Coordinator. Not soon after he was matched to his first Little Brother. In 1989 Greg was hired as the Executive Director of Big Brothers of South Niagara. Michael remains a huge part of his life and that of his family and for that he has been truly blessed.
For Big Brothers Big Sisters Greg sees a period of program innovation coming forward creating partnerships with like minded groups to capture those who may be overlooked by current service offerings..
Marianne Noakes
Marianne Noakes Executive Director
Marianne Noakes is the agency Executive Director a position she has held since coming to Hamilton in 1999. Marianne’s career with BBBS has spanned over 30 years, within four different communities and with progressively changing roles.
Marianne and husband Greg have two grown children, Sarah who has followed her mother’s footsteps in the social service sector and Jordan who is currently teaching in Taiwan. The Noakes are soon to be first time grandparents (says Marianne with a delighted smirk!).
In terms of a vision for the organization, Marianne feels strongly that we need to move the organization to a “centre for mentoring excellence” position in the community so that we can share and lead in the process of ensuring that every child who needs a mentor is greeted with the news that a special friend has been found just for them. In order to move to this positioning we need to create new synergies with organizations who are serving kids in the communities of Hamilton and Burlington.
Marianne and husband Greg have two grown children, Sarah who has followed her mother’s footsteps in the social service sector and Jordan who is currently teaching in Taiwan. The Noakes are soon to be first time grandparents (says Marianne with a delighted smirk!).
In terms of a vision for the organization, Marianne feels strongly that we need to move the organization to a “centre for mentoring excellence” position in the community so that we can share and lead in the process of ensuring that every child who needs a mentor is greeted with the news that a special friend has been found just for them. In order to move to this positioning we need to create new synergies with organizations who are serving kids in the communities of Hamilton and Burlington.
Announcing our new communication name for our blog.
Thank you so very much to those who responded to our request for submissions naming our blog. BETWEEN FRIENDS received the most votes and therefore our BBBS Blog has been renamed Between Friends.
Thank You
Thank to you the Hamilton Community Foundation's Youth and Philanthropy Program. Under the Youth-led Community Action Program, current Co-op Students will launch a Co-op Mentoring Recruitment Campaign. Funds will be used to help encourage high school students to enter the co-op program and become In-School Mentors. Current Co-op Students will create display boards, brochures and share their mentoring experiences with other students. Thank you Hamilton Community Foundation for supporting this endeavor.
National Volunteer Week
In celebration of national volunteer week, which took place during the month of April, Big Brothers Big Sisters wanted to pass along this message of thanks:
This year……….
You baked more than 100 dozen cookies
You introduced more than 40 kids to the fun of fishing
You explored more that two dozen different hiking trails
You watched more than 80 movies
You cheered on your little brothers and sisters at more that 75 soccer games and 130 hockey games
You taught your little brothers and sisters how to swim, skate, dance, canoe, write stories, use a library, master a video game, create a pizza from scratch and hit the top corner with a puck.
This year………You helped to produce more than 10, 000 smiles on the faces of children in our community. Thank you for your continued support of our agency and the children who need us most.
We are hoping you will help us continue to spread the word that mentoring is fun, rewarding and a great chance to be a kid again. Please send the following message/link to your friends, family and co-workers.
Celebrate Spring! Plant a seed of hope and become a mentor. Visit www.callbigbrothers.com for details.
This year……….
You baked more than 100 dozen cookies
You introduced more than 40 kids to the fun of fishing
You explored more that two dozen different hiking trails
You watched more than 80 movies
You cheered on your little brothers and sisters at more that 75 soccer games and 130 hockey games
You taught your little brothers and sisters how to swim, skate, dance, canoe, write stories, use a library, master a video game, create a pizza from scratch and hit the top corner with a puck.
This year………You helped to produce more than 10, 000 smiles on the faces of children in our community. Thank you for your continued support of our agency and the children who need us most.
We are hoping you will help us continue to spread the word that mentoring is fun, rewarding and a great chance to be a kid again. Please send the following message/link to your friends, family and co-workers.
Celebrate Spring! Plant a seed of hope and become a mentor. Visit www.callbigbrothers.com for details.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
THREE CHEERS FOR OUR VOLUNTEERS
THREE CHEERS FOR OUR VOLUNTEERS
As I am writing this, we as a nation are celebrating national volunteer week. Did you know that there are over 12.5 million volunteers in Canada?
National Volunteer Week is a special time set aside in April to honour the people who donate their time and energy. The week also raises awareness of the vital contributions volunteers make to our communities.
From coast to coast, volunteer involvement enriches our community’s one act at a time.
At Big Brothers Big Sisters we know the individual impact one person can have on another human being. At Big Brothers Big Sisters please know that your volunteer commitment is inspiring, important and life changing.
Whether you have signed on to rake our garden, help count money at BFKS, make a leadership contribution or mentor a child please know that you are a valued member of our team. Our most sincere thanks.
Marianne Noakes
Executive Director
As I am writing this, we as a nation are celebrating national volunteer week. Did you know that there are over 12.5 million volunteers in Canada?
National Volunteer Week is a special time set aside in April to honour the people who donate their time and energy. The week also raises awareness of the vital contributions volunteers make to our communities.
From coast to coast, volunteer involvement enriches our community’s one act at a time.
At Big Brothers Big Sisters we know the individual impact one person can have on another human being. At Big Brothers Big Sisters please know that your volunteer commitment is inspiring, important and life changing.
Whether you have signed on to rake our garden, help count money at BFKS, make a leadership contribution or mentor a child please know that you are a valued member of our team. Our most sincere thanks.
Marianne Noakes
Executive Director
Friday, February 12, 2010
Note from the Executive Director
As promised, I am going to continue to put to print articles featuring questions I have been asked since our last publication. These days it seems as though I am continually being asked, "how will the uncertain economy effect Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hamilton and Burlington"? My first response "we continue to focus on what we do best, matching young people with caring adult mentors”. As a volunteer-driven organization we are continuing to recruit, train and provide ongoing professional support to foster the success of our mentoring relationships. Are we doing business differently? Yes we are.
We are finding ourselves needing to be more creative and resourceful in the way we operate. It is our responsibility to always be evaluating and paying attention to our efficiencies. Unfortunately, the reduction in available funds and the ever growing need to place mentors in the lives of children has resulted in a much higher caseload per worker. We continue to explore and utilize students and other means to continue to reach out where possible, but some of the feedback I am getting is that we are at times frustrating our membership with so very many changes. Every child, family and volunteer mentor within our organization has been assigned a service team staff member as your key contact. Others from our staff, student or volunteer compliment may be in touch from time to time, but a service staff member remains your primary contact.
I believe that now more than ever before the children and youth in our community need mentorship to give them hope for the future. At BBBS of Hamilton and Burlington we are incredibly fortunate to have the support we do from our dedicated and passionate volunteers, as well as from our committed and steadfast donors.
Together we will weather this storm of uncertain times; the children in our program are counting on it!
Marianne Noakes
Executive Director
We are finding ourselves needing to be more creative and resourceful in the way we operate. It is our responsibility to always be evaluating and paying attention to our efficiencies. Unfortunately, the reduction in available funds and the ever growing need to place mentors in the lives of children has resulted in a much higher caseload per worker. We continue to explore and utilize students and other means to continue to reach out where possible, but some of the feedback I am getting is that we are at times frustrating our membership with so very many changes. Every child, family and volunteer mentor within our organization has been assigned a service team staff member as your key contact. Others from our staff, student or volunteer compliment may be in touch from time to time, but a service staff member remains your primary contact.
I believe that now more than ever before the children and youth in our community need mentorship to give them hope for the future. At BBBS of Hamilton and Burlington we are incredibly fortunate to have the support we do from our dedicated and passionate volunteers, as well as from our committed and steadfast donors.
Together we will weather this storm of uncertain times; the children in our program are counting on it!
Marianne Noakes
Executive Director
STAFF OF BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS
Hamilton Office 905-525-3860
Activity Line X 3
Bob Salac X 308
Activity Line X 3
Bob Salac X 308
Vicki Farthing X 319
Laura Hickerson X 310
Helen Metz X 303
Rebecca Hart X 304
Greg Whelan X 317
Miriam Oda X 305
Michelle Cleugh 318
Marianne Noakes X 312
Rosalie Wilson X 0
Lisa HindMarsh X 306
Lisa HindMarsh X 306
Joyce Mullally x 302
Vanessa Poletto X 311
Becky Van Rootselaar x309
Stephanie Hampson x 0
Kim Irish x 333
Burlington Office 905-637-9911
Vanessa Poletto X 311
Becky Van Rootselaar x309
Stephanie Hampson x 0
Kim Irish x 333
Burlington Office 905-637-9911
The end of our printed newsletter
Starting with our next publication if you have not provided us with an electronic email address, you will need to access our blog through our website at www.callbigbrothers.com. Our blog can be found by... (Going to our web site at www.callbigbrothers.com and clicking on the Quick link) or you can go directly to the blog at http://callbigbrothers.blogspot.com/.
OUR BIG AND LITTLE MODELS
Thank You So Very Much To
Sakineh & Cassandra Chyanne & Andreana and Ted for telling their story to the media so it could be heard by others. Throughout the past month we have been featured in local media by way of great testimonials from our Little's and Bigs.
The sharing of there real life stories makes a huge difference for us, from recruiting volunteers to attracting donors to this organization. Our Thanks!
WILL YOU BE OUR NEXT MODEL?
Big Brothers Big Sisters would like to hear from matches in the Big & Little program, Soar program or In School Mentoring Program who would be willing to tell their story to the media. We will take their photo-ask the questions and write the article. SMILE and email Marianne@callbigbrothers.com and we'll get started on making you "Big Brothers Big Sisters next top model".
THANK YOU
Big Brothers Big Sisters relies heavily on Community, Corporate and Government supporters.
We would like to thank the following partners for their generous support: Avon Canada
Frank Cowan Foundation
We would like to thank the following partners for their generous support: Avon Canada
Frank Cowan Foundation
Halton Investment Fund
Government of Ontario - Ministry of Education
United Way of Burlington and Greater Hamilton
UPS
Government of Canada
Government of Ontario (OMAFRA)
Government of Ontario - Ministry of Education
United Way of Burlington and Greater Hamilton
UPS
Government of Canada
Government of Ontario (OMAFRA)
NAME OUR NEWS LETTER
We have set aside a great treat for anyone who enters our name our E-NEWSLETTER contest...here are some of the suggestions received to date
BETWEEN FRIENDS SHARE A LITTLE MAGIC Go BIG Blog
Send me an email with your suggestion or vote for one of the names above. Marianne@callbigbrothers.com
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer Opportunities
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hamilton & Burlington has numerous events planned for the next couple of months. The success of these events is largely dependant on the assistance of volunteers.
These events include;
1. Thursday March 4, McMaster Bowl for Kids Sake, Mountain Lanes 6-8pm
2. Saturday March 6, Bowl for Kids Sake –PrimeTime Bowling Burlington 12 - 5pm
3. Saturday March 13, BFKS – Skyway Lanes- Hamilton 12-5pm
4. Sunday March 14, BFKS – Sherwood Lanes 6-9pm
5. Friday March 19 Stars Academy Concert- Burlington 8pm to close
Volunteers are needed to assist with a third party event that involves at least four
local bands, this is a licensed event, you must be 19yrs of age.
6. Friday March 26, BFKS – Roseland Bowl- Burlington 4-8pm
7. Saturday March 27, BFKS – Skyway Lanes- Hamilton 11-6pm
Wednesday March 31, BFKS – PrimeTime Bowling- Burlington 5-8pm
Volunteers at the Bowl for Kids Sake events will assist in participant registration, accounting tasks, and participant customer service.All of these are high tempo, fun events to be part of. If you are interested in volunteering at any of these events, please contact Bob, Special Event & Volunteer Coordinator, rsalac@callbigbrothers.com or 905-525-3860 x 308
Big And Littles in Burlington
Bigs and Littles in Burlington
Ever wish you had somewhere cool to hang together?
Bigs and Littles in Hamilton – Are you tired of the same activities all the time?
Get ready to visit a place that has it all!
BBBS has teamed up with Velocity, a youth center in Burlington,
to provide our matches with a cool place to hang out.
Join us on Saturday February 20th,
Saturday March 20th
and Saturday April 24th
from 10am – 1 pm at Velocity,
located at 3230 Fairview Street in Burlington
(Near Burlington Mall)
Velocity is a fun place for all youth - with an amazing lounge area, big screen TV,
dance floor, pool tables and lots of games available.
And for the adults - free parking!
First come first serve – please call to reserve your spot.
Contact Becky (ext. 309) or Helen (ext. 303) at 905-525-3860
Ever wish you had somewhere cool to hang together?
Bigs and Littles in Hamilton – Are you tired of the same activities all the time?
Get ready to visit a place that has it all!
BBBS has teamed up with Velocity, a youth center in Burlington,
to provide our matches with a cool place to hang out.
Join us on Saturday February 20th,
Saturday March 20th
and Saturday April 24th
from 10am – 1 pm at Velocity,
located at 3230 Fairview Street in Burlington
(Near Burlington Mall)
Velocity is a fun place for all youth - with an amazing lounge area, big screen TV,
dance floor, pool tables and lots of games available.
And for the adults - free parking!
First come first serve – please call to reserve your spot.
Contact Becky (ext. 309) or Helen (ext. 303) at 905-525-3860
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