Big Brothers Big Sisters of Montérégie, an organization that creates meaningful relationships between volunteer mentors and children in need, is looking for new mentors, particularly from the male gender. In recent years, the organization has found it difficult to achieve parity among its volunteers, while many young boys wish to be accompanied by someone who can support them.

"We believe that diversity among our volunteers is essential to meet the needs of the multitude of young people looking for a Big Brother or Big Sister. We need motivated people who want to make a difference in a young person's life! All it takes is the desire to share your passion with a young person. Do you like golf, car repairs or cooking? We have a young person who will be interested in learning alongside you," says Marie-Hélène Demers, Executive Director of Grands Frères Grandes Soeurs de la Montérégie-Suroît.

A committed spokesperson

In an effort to recruit as many male mentors as possible, last fall the organization appointed its very first spokesperson, host and comedian Kevin Raphaël. As part of his involvement with the organization, Kevin participates in a number of events and acts as a Big Brother himself to a young man, 10-year-old Élliot.

"Getting involved with young people who are looking for a shoulder to lean on with the help of Big Brothers Big Sisters is more accessible than you think. For me, being a Big Brother allows me to step back into childhood, while playing a truly rewarding mentoring role. It's a way of giving back that's accessible to everyone," observes Kevin Raphaël, the organization's first official spokesperson.

As part of the organization's Quillothon held a few weeks ago, Kevin took the opportunity to bowl with Élliot in the company of their friends. The event enabled Big Brothers Big Sisters of Montérégie-Suroît to raise enough funds to reach their goal, a success for this annual gathering.

Big Brothers Big Sisters is an organization present in many regions across Quebec. Want to make a difference in the life of a young person? Find out more at www.gfgsm.org/devenir-mentor/. 

Contact details in your region 

Grands frères Grandes sœurs de la Montérégie-Suroit is located at 87, rue Sainte-Cécile, Suite 226, in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield. The organization covers the Beauharnois-Salaberry and Vaudreuil-Soulanges RCMs.

Tel: 1 866 464-6188 ext. 104

Website: [email protected]