OTF Grant Helps BBBS Guelph Expand Mentoring Support

Backed by a $156,700 Grow grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Guelph (BBBSG) has successfully expanded the reach of its group-based mentoring programs, supporting an additional 384 local youth over the past three years. The project, which commenced in 2019 and concludes in May 2022, has built upon BBBSG’s effective group program model, delivering critical support (both in-person and virtually) to youth facing adversities. At a ceremony celebrating the successful project on April 20, Guelph MPP Mike Schreiner issued congratulations on the successful completion of this project.

The grant has provided BBBSG with critical funds to invest in the positive development of local youth. Not only are mentored youth able to better navigate life’s challenges, but they are also able to better respond to some of the unique hurdles presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. “Throughout the pandemic, the goal of Big Brothers Big Sisters has been to remain a consistent presence in the lives of the children whom we support,” said Michael Treadgold, Executive Director. “Due in large part to the support from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, BBBSG was able to adapt its traditional in-person group programs to be delivered virtually instead, ensuring that no youth were left behind.

“Congratulations to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Guelph for receiving a Grow grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation,” said Guelph MPP Mike Schreiner. “BBBSG plays a vital role in improving the lives of youth in our community. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Guelph is working to build our community and strengthen a sense of belonging and connection for our children and youth – which is needed now more than ever after years of lockdowns and separation. I know that BBBSG has used this funding to support the positive development of children and youth who are facing barriers by continuing to develop strong emotional and social skills. This grant has already improved the lives of more than 350 people in the community. Congratulations and thank you again for your invaluable work in our community.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Guelph is the city’s largest youth mentoring charity, enabling life-changing mentoring relationships that ignite the power and potential of more than 600 young people. Investing in young people’s futures pays off, with a social return on investment of $23-to-1 through improved economic, health, and social outcomes.  Established in 1967, the charity facilitates both one-on-one and group-based mentoring programs, serving the communities and schools of Guelph, Ariss, Aberfoyle, Rockwood, Morriston and Puslinch. For more information, visit www.bbbsg.ca.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations. Last year, nearly $112M was invested into 1,384 community projects and partnerships to build healthy and vibrant communities and strengthen the impact of Ontario’s non-profit sector. In 2020/21, OTF supported Ontario’s economic recovery by helping non-profit organizations rebuild and recover from the impacts of COVID-19. Visit otf.ca to learn more.