Big Brothers Big Sisters of Strathcona County
Second floor, east wing, Community Centre, 401 Festival Lane T8A 5P7 Sherwood Park, AB, Canada

We know that now, more than ever keeping kids engaged is critical. We have several volunteer opportunities available right now, whether it's Virtual Mentoring, Tutoring or in-person community based Big Brothers Big Sisters. Let's stand together and show our kids that they have so much potential. Volunteer for any of these great volunteer opportunities (you choose!): Virtual 1-1 Mentoring (with children ages 6-18). Virtual Tutoring (help tutor a child or youth in grades 4-...12). Virtual Reading Buddies (Support a child in grades 1-3). Or become a Mentor in our Big Brother or Sister Program! We offer weekly virtual open houses to ask any question you may have before you sign-up, simply visit https://bgcbigs.ca/more-than-ever Mentoring offers the chance for a child or youth to realize their full potential and plus, it's a fun and rewarding experience. See more

What is National Child Day you ask? National Child Day is celebrated in Canada on November 20 in recognition of our country’s commitment to upholding the rights of children and two historic events: the 1959 signing of the UN Declaration of the Rights of the Child and the adoption of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989. Participate in Strathcona County Child and Youth Coalition’s social media challenge for a chance to win an awesome gift basket to help you celebrate a child’s right to be Seen and Heard! How will you celebrate the right to be Seen and Heard? Comment below to be entered for a chance to win!

Big Brother, Riley and Little Brother, Mason got in the Halloween spirit and enjoyed carving pumpkins together. They shared their creative deigns with us! Halloween, like all things affected by COVID-19, will look different in Strathcona County this year. Visit Strathcona.ca/Halloween to see the latest COVID-19 guidelines, as well as healthy Halloween ideas that can be done at home. Don’t forget to share a photo on their website of your Spooktacular pumpkin for a chance to win a $50 Sobeys gift card. Have a safe and BOO-tiful Halloween everyone!

Are you having difficulty paying rent or are you spending 30% or more of your income on housing? Until November 30, Strathcona County will be conducting a survey to understand the housing experiences of its residents. The results from the survey will help to better understand the housing and services needed by residents. Email [email protected] for an online access code or call Family and Community Services at 780-464-4044 to participate! @strathcocounty @scsocialaction

If you could have any superpower, what would it be? Did you know that you already do have a superpower? No, we’re not talking about flying or reading minds (those would be pretty cool to have). You have the incredible ability to help others see their superpowers. There are currently 30 youth on our waitlist right now just here in Strathcona County eager to get matched with a mentor/superhero like you. You could help them see everything they have to offer the world.... In times like these, our community’s young people need an encouraging presence more than ever. More than ever, you can ignite powerit’s just a question of how you want to do it. Take a look at the ways you can be a superhero for a young person, and help them become superheroes themselves. Explore some of our newer volunteer options: https://bgcbigs.ca/more-than-ever/ #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #YEG

Did you know National Child Day is coming up on November 20th? This year’s theme is: Children Have the Right to Be Seen and Heard! Looking for a way to celebrate National Child Day and need some financial support? ... Check out Strathcona County’s Community Connection and Community Change Grants. Come together and create positive change for our community! Community Connection Grant applications close November 6, 2020 Community Change Grant applications close November 12, 2020 Apply at: strathcona.ca/grants for more info call: 780-464-8455 #NationalChildDay #SeenandHeard

Is family violence affecting your life or someone you know? Do you know #WhereToTurn? November is Family Violence Prevention Month. At a time when COVID-19 can cause individuals to be more isolated and vulnerable, it is everyone’s responsibility to help end family violence. Strathcona County Family and Community Services offers supports and services for people who want to make a positive change in their life, or who have relationship concerns. Help is available by calling Family and Community Services 780-464-4044 or visiting the website: https://www.strathcona.ca//well-being-and/family-violence/