Big Brothers/Sisters
Ralph introduced Cindy McQuirter who believes our future is our kids. If supported, she said, they'll grow into positive, helpful and community minded individuals. They need a positive role model and not enough of them get the attention they should. The organization is always looking for more 1 on 1 adults, especially male. Those on the waiting list take part in group activities like trips to Wonderland. On the last trip one young lady told Cindy she'd never been outside of Midland. Cindy introduced the organization's new Executive Director, France St. Amour, who is working to provide a positive life experience for everybody involved.
France thanked the Club for its hospitality and said she was pleased to be part of such a forward looking team. Big Brothers/Sisters gets no government funding. Their vision is to see that every child that needs a mentor gets one and that they are provided with a positive life experience with a caring adult. These children will perform better throughout life. There is a waiting list and it is growing. Her priorities will be funding, more volunteers and developing partnerships.
There was a power point presentation that took us through two new programs promoted by BB/S to help children fulfill their promise. Go Girls: Healthy Bodies and Minds runs over 7 weeks, 2 hours per and offers games that teach and that encourage developing relationships and self reflection. They try new activities, get exercise and learn. Once they are informed about healthy choices they have new opportunities and gain confidence.
Cops, Kids and Communities is being developed for the age 12 - 16 group and involves OPP volunteers that share positive experiences through group activities, adult role models and social interaction as well as building trust in the police on the part of at risk youth. They take tours, learn about forensics and dog training and go swimming, biking etc. A little time makes a big difference.
Fran Roosen said being a Big Sister was proving to be the time of her life. Her 'little' is now 13 and has blossomed since they first met when she was 7. The big question is what to do during the visits and Fran started by just taking her home, walking with her and the dog, baking. Small things led to a pride of accomplishment. Every thing was new to her. Sailing at the Club had been a first for both of them, she's joined the young eagles flight club and has been up and even steered.
Fran said they need the time alone, 1 on 1, non-judgmental. They are friends. They went to the Musical Ride and say a K9 Unit in action and she thought she'd like to do that. When Fran suggested she could she realized that was true - 'I could do that!' Fran said she had always been a volunteer and now her little is learning to help too - she works at the Midland Youth Club and has learned a new norm. She's really starting to 'get it'. Fran is the only woman she knows that works and has her own car and money and it has opened up her world to possibilities. Fran has found the experience wonderful, fulfilling, watching her grow and she recommends it for everyone.
Dave Mink offered the thanks of the Club to all who had given us so much information on the organization and who were working so hard for the kids of the area.