Local volunteers are again urging Woodstock and area residents to “Turn the Town Teal” to mark September’s Big Brothers Big Sisters Month and help raise awareness about the organization’s critical need for mentors.
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In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oxford County officials have noticed an “unprecedented surge” in program enrollment, as well as a growing number of youth who have experienced “adverse childhood experiences.”
Mentorships — what Big Brothers Big Sisters describes as supportive developmental relationships — can have a tremendous impact on the lives of children, officials with the non-profit noted
Like previous campaigns, local businesses can contact Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oxford County for a Turn the Town Teal starter kit that includes the appropriately colored décor to help raise awareness about the charity and its ongoing need for mentors, officials said.
“Whether it is a display in your front window, office entrance, lunchroom or waiting room, we look forward to seeing your creativity and see a wave of teal through Oxford County,” said Liz Wismer-Van Meer, the Oxford chapter’s manager of communications .
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The starter kits also include information that can be displayed at the business and shared with employees about the local campaign for new volunteers, Wismer-Van Meer added.
“We encourage you to expand and personalize your decor, adding your unique touch of teal to the display,” she said.
There are no costs associated with registering for the starter kit and no obligations, apart from helping turn Oxford County’s towns teal during the month.
Interested businesses can complete at online form at oxford.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/event/bbbsmonth2024/ to reserve a kit. A Big Brothers Big Sisters staffer will then deliver the kit in the lead-up to September’s celebrations.
As a complement to the Turn the Town Teal campaign, local residents are also invited to support Big Brothers Big Sisters by displaying its Mirror Mirror decals. These decals can be placed on windows, mirrors, doors and any other visible, reflective spots during September — and beyond, if desired — to raise awareness about the crucial role of mentoring. With a growing local waiting list, the decals showcase that “You’re The One We’ve Been Waiting For” and invite residents to become a mentor.
Participants in the Mirror Mirror campaign will also receive brochures and FAQ sheets to distribute to potential volunteers.
Registrations for Turn the Town Teal and Mirror Mirror close on Friday, Aug. 9.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Month is celebrated every September, including a special day on Sept. 18. The Oxford County chapter encourages residents to follow its social media pages and website as it celebrates to see how they can support and raise awareness on the importance of mentorship in the community.
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