Big Brothers Big Sisters Owen Sound is excited to announce the newest addition to our agency, Jennifer Miller as the new Executive Director to continue our momentum of success serving the community.

Jennifer brings over 20 years' experience in management consulting to our team specializing in operational efficiency and effectiveness. "Jennifer has been a resource for us over the past few years assisting with everything from our accreditation with the national office through to strategic planning and governance revitalization. We are thrilled to have her as part of our team and formalizing our relationship just made sense" stated Board President, Andy McKee.

"Over the past several years my practice has worked with many local agencies in the not‐for‐profit sector" said Jennifer Miller. "Community responsibility is an important part of any successful business and Big Brothers Big Sisters is such a meaningful and impactful way of affecting positive change for families. In our area there are so many kids who could benefit from having a mentor. Volunteering for only one hour a week can truly change the course of a young life".

To kick off the New Year, January is Mentoring Month across Canada – Jennifer and the team will be celebrating with the launch of the Be A Hero campaign; aimed at connecting more of our community's young people with caring adults.

Research shows that mentors play a powerful role in providing young people with the tools to make responsible choices, attend and engage in school, and reduce or avoid risky behaviors. In turn, these young people are:

• 43% less likely to have conduct problems in school
• Twice as likely to have high academic achievement
• 17% more likely to be gainfully employed as adults
• 34% less likely to allow themselves to be victimized or bullied by peers
• Have stronger social networks and report being happier and more confident

"Many young Canadians struggle with societal barriers and face adversities in their lives like detrimental living conditions and family violence, mental health and school issues as well as identity challenges," said Peter Coleridge, National President and CEO, BBBSC.

"Simply having someone who listens and encourages them, youth can transform into confident and motivated young people and, more importantly, break cycles of poverty and crime and curb the development of mental health issues."

In our community, people can participate by: Becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister, volunteering for in‐school mentoring, joining our Board of Directors, helping out at events, register a team for our annual Bowl for Kids Sake fundraiser on March 3rd, 2018 or donating to support program delivery.

To learn more about the role mentoring plays in our community and to find out more about volunteer opportunities visit: https://www.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/owensound or give us a call at 519‐376‐4449.

Join us in celebrating Mentoring Month this January by becoming a hero! Imagine who they can becomebecause of you.

source: media release, BBBS