Despite a global pandemic and the many challenges that brought to our agency and many of our families we are so thankful for the tremendous support we have received. Here are just a few of the successes of Big Brothers Big Sisters in 2020!
- Successfully converted all mentoring programs virtually supporting over 1,000 young people.
- A new virtual Bigs on Campus Program began in partnership with Sheridan College and the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
- Adapted a new innovative curriculum for our virtual Go Girls, Newcomer Go Girls and Game On Programs.
- A new online Child Application Form was developed for our website to increase access for families.
- Engaged community partners such as Scientists in School, KidsBridge Initiative and Visual Arts Mississauga to bring our youth interactive and educational virtual learning experiences.
- In response to COVID-19 we received support from the government’s COVID-19 Emergency Support Fund, the United Way of Greater Toronto, the Community Foundation of Mississauga and the Brampton & Caledon Community Foundation.
- The One on One Charity Sponsorship Program was launched thanks to long-term volunteer Darren Sketchley. The program assists youth fulfil their passion whether it’s art, music, sports, a new laptop for learning etc. The program which began in October 2020 has already supported 7 youth and raised $10,630 to support their passions.
- Over 100 families received additional support this year thanks to individual donors providing COVID assistance, Holiday Giving sponsors and games and toys donated by Mattel.
- Funding was received from both Cummins and the Advance Brampton Fund which allowed us to provide activity kits to enhance youth engagement in our virtual mentoring programs.
- Two successful virtual fundraisers were held – Move for Mentoring and the Virtual Dine & Celebrate Gala.