Big Sister Robyn and Little Sister Casey ham it up.By Callan Date
THERE were big smiles all round last week when participants of Casey’s Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) program headed to Luna Park for the day.
The end-of-year treat was offered to all current partnerships in the program, which now has 40 matches between vulnerable young people and caring adults.
Casey program director Rebecca Wolstenholme said the Luna Park day was a great opportunity to reflect on the past year and celebrate the many friendships that have been formed through the program.
BBBS Casey is a YMCA community funded program based on the simplicity and power of friendship.
Adult volunteers are screened and matched with young people, aged between seven and 17, and help build a friendship and act as a positive role model and mentor for them.
But although there are 40 matches, more than 70 youngsters and teenagers are waiting for their own Big Brother or Big Sister.
“It is breaking our hearts to have to keep these young people waiting for a match, simply because we don’t have the finances to meet the need,” she said. “We are urging the local community and businesses to get behind this program and help us generate the necessary income.
“We want each of these young people to experience the benefits that our current matched young people are experiencing as they spend time with someone who can become their friend and offer the support and quality time that they need,” Ms Wolstenholme said.
Anyone interested in sponsoring a match or donating to the BBBS Casey program can contact Rebecca on 9705 5033.
