Yorkton Council declared September as Big Brothers Big Sisters Month in the city.
The decision was a unanimous one by council at its regular meeting Tuesday.
“Big Brothers Big Sisters offers a variety of mentoring programs that respond to community needs. Big Brothers Big Sisters has formalized the mentor process offering the best possible services by providing mentors for children and youth who need a significant, caring adult in their lives,” explained a letter circulated to Council regarding the request from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Yorkton and Area.
“Big Brothers Big Sisters is proven to improve children’s odds for succeeding in school, behaving non-violently, increased selfesteem/self-worth, healthier lifestyles, evidence of higher incomes, avoiding drugs and alcohol, and breaking other negative cycles.”
The local organization currently serves more than 250 children annually through mentoring relationships in the communities of Yorkton, Melville, Churchbridge, Esterhazy, Langenburg, and Rocanville.
There are still many children on waiting list for a mentor.
In September the organization has several activities and events planned to celebrate mentoring and expand their mentoring programs.
They're focusing on recruitment of volunteers so they can match many of the children on their waiting list.
In-school mentoring begins again in September, giving children an additional support in school, a friend, a mentor who can encourage them to stay in school and do their best.
“Big Brothers Big Sisters of Yorkton and Area is all about friends and making a difference in a child's life. We look forward to talking to you further about mentoring and the difference it makes in not only the child's life but in the community as a whole,” detailed the circulated letter.
