Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lloydminster is rolling into its busiest time of year, launching a series of holiday campaigns to support local mentoring programs.
Lighting up the lobby
The centre’s annual lobby lights display is underway, with 16 strands of lights waiting to be filled. Each donation adds a paper light bulb to the string.
“If you make a bigger donation you get more bulbs and you get your name on it,” said Executive Director Jacqueline Weed.
When a strand fills, staff plug in the physical lights. Donations can honour loved ones, come from individuals or businesses, and be in any amount.
Christmas shopping table opens Monday
A shopping table filled with new and gently used donated items will run through the month. Items are posted online and available to anyone visiting the lobby.
“At the end of it, our last day before Christmas with the kids, the kids get to shop for free for their parents,” said Weed.
Lights and Sounds launch, gift wrapping return
The charity attended Saturday’s Lights and Sounds of Christmas home launch. They served hot chocolate, pizza and helping with parking. Gift wrapping is also returning, where residents can drop off presents, make a donation and pick them up fully wrapped.
“It is always all about the kids,” said Weed, noting all the dollars go to helping the kids they assist day to day.
Volunteers and mentors needed
The agency raises nearly half its annual budget through community fundraising and always needs help.
“We throughout the year do designated driving, bartending, watch doors at events, so we always are in need of volunteers,” explained Weed.
Mentors are also needed. The in-school program requires one hour per week during the school year, while the community program runs evenings or weekends.
Anyone can volunteer, every match is different. You are encouraged to reach out if you have an interest in being paired with a little brother, little sister or just helping fundraise.
Mega Bike returns June 9
The popular Mega Bike fundraiser will return in June with full sponsorship details to be released soon.
Read more: VIDEO: Hockey players step up to help local Christmas light display
