Mayor's Declaration - Big Brothers Big Sisters Day - September 18, 2023

WHEREAS, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lanark County is an important community organization committed to helping children and youth reach their full potential by matching them with caring, volunteer mentors;

AND WHEREAS, evidence-based research has shown that for every dollar invested in Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring, society gets a return of $23 dollars. In addition, youth who have a Big Brother or a Big Sisters are less likely to bully or be bullied, feel better about school, and are more likely to have a healthy and positive outlook on life well into adulthood;

AND WHEREAS, we believe that by changing the course of young lives we can in turn be changing the course of a community’s future. That it could lead to a reduction in poverty and unemployment; to safer schools and neighbourhoods; or to a renewed optimism for growth.

AND WHEREAS, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lanark County relies heavily on the strength and dedication of its volunteers who, through their commitment and support, make a profound difference in the lives of children and youth in our community;

AND WHEREAS, the agency’s goal is to expand its recruitment drive in order to serve more children and youth in our community; 

NOW THEREFORE, I, Judy Brown, Mayor of the Town of Perth declare that September 18, 2023 be designated as "Big Brother Big Sister Day". I encourage everyone to Volunteer or Donate by visiting https://lanark.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca and learn more about how you can get involved in giving young people the confidence to achieve more.