Spring is officially here with Summer coming just around the corner. This time of year all of us are doing our annual clean up and re-evaluating our clothing and household items. Why not put those to good use and donate them to the Big Brothers Big Sisters donation drive!?
Who is Big Brothers Big Sisters?
Big Brothers Big Sisters is a non-profit organization that provides one on one mentoring for youth ages 7-17. These programs create consistent, positive relationships that help young people build confidence, develop life skills, and feel supported during critical developmental years. Here are some of the amazing stats that you can expect from children participating in their programs.
Children with a Mentor are:
27%less likely to start using alcohol
46% less likely to start using drugs
37% less likely to skip a class
52%less likely to miss school
78% of former “littles” or mentees who came from a social assistance background don’t rely on social assistance as adults
2xBoys with mentors were two times more likely to believe that school is fun or that good academic performance is important. They were also two times less likely to develop negative behaviors such as bullying, and less likely to suffer from peer pressure anxiety (e.g. what others might think of them).
4x Girls were found to be four times less likely to bully others than those without a mentor.
This is why it is so important for all of us to help ensure this organization is able to continue their amazing work! I certainly know it can be hard to donation cash with the economy as it is. That’s why their donation drive is an fantastic way to support them with donating clothing you no longer wear.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Donation Drive Information
This donation drive is a huge benefit to the Big Brothers Big Sisters program as the donations are then sold to Value Village. The profits from these sales go towards all of their programming. Without these donations the programming would cease to exist.
There are a couple of options for getting your donations to where they need to go.
Option 1- dropping them off at a local bin! They are located all around Edmonton and area. You can find a map here to find the one closest to you.
Option 2- Schedule a pick up from you home. Click here to find a time that works best for you.
Option 3- Visit your local Value Village store.
Host A Bin
Sponsoring a bin is a fantastic way to support your community. If you have a local business with space you can also host a bin! If this is something you’re interested in please reach out to Leah Oakley at leah.oakley@bgcbigs.ca
Continued Support
There are several other ways to help support the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization such as the Children’s First Golf Classic happening on August 25th at the Cougar Creek Golf Course. As well as the Big Brothers Big Sisters Dream Home Lottery, Children’s Circle, and even volunteer! If you’re wanting more information please contact Big Brothers Big Sisters at communications@bgcbigs.ca or tel:780-424-8181.
*Disclosure: I did receive compensation in exchange for this article. As always all my opinions are my own*