Big Brothers Big Sisters in Oxford looking to attract mentors and other help

Lee Griffi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

September is Big Brothers Big Sisters Month (BBBS) and the Oxford group is inviting local businesses to celebrate mentorship and raise awareness about the critical need for mentors in the county.

The organization is experiencing an unprecedented surge in youth enrollment in its programs and a growing number of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) among young people. Statistics show the significant impact that one additional supportive developmental relationship can have on a child’s life.

Liz Wismer-Van Meer is the group’s Manager of Communications and explained the types of situations BBBS can help with.

“Children who experience mental health issues, a family separation or divorce, abuse whether domestic or to the child, and it could also be incarceration, things like that they experience in their childhood. We are seeing those numbers increase from the 13 we measure. We see more children answering yes to six or more of those ACEs.”

She added the numbers started to change for the worse as society came out of the pandemic a few years ago.

“A lot of young people lived through social isolation and that’s when they started to experience mental health as contact with friends and family was restricted. The pandemic is definitely part of what we think is contributing to these numbers but it’s also just more young people understanding themselves a bit better.”

Wismer-Van Meer wants to assure anyone interested in becoming a mentor will be trained and not be left on their own.

“Whenever volunteers are being brought into the program, professional case workers oversee every match and group program. These people are experienced and have the knowledge to ensure we train our mentors and volunteers with the tools they need to support a young person.”

She added the programs aren’t meant to be counselling for young people but instead offers additional support outside a family situation, something critical for clients. The time commitment is something manageable for adults looking to make a difference and they are needed across Oxford.

“We have young people, not just in the Woodstock, Ingersoll and urban parts of the county needing to be placed. There are those in rural areas needing to be matched. It can be an hour or two over a week over seven to 10 weeks in one of our group programs or it could be two to three hours once a week as a one-to-one mentor. We have a wide variety of options for people to get involved.”

The benefits of youth having mentors in their lives is something BBBS said is measurable and something they believe strongly in.

“One of the things we know is the addition of a consistent and supportive developmental relationship can help offset the effects of ACEs. There have been a lot of studies done over the years and a lot of our information comes from research institutes,” she explained.

There are two ways people and businesses can get involved in the September festivities:

Turn the Town Teal

Local businesses can register for a Turn the Town Teal kit, which includes teal-coloured décor to help raise awareness for BBBS Month and highlight the need for mentors.

“Whether you display it in your front window, office entrance, lunchroom, or waiting room, we look forward to seeing your creativity and a wave of teal across Oxford County,” explained Wismer-Van Meer.

“The kit will also contain information to display in your business and share with your employees, aiding our volunteer recruitment efforts. We encourage you to expand and personalize your décor, adding your unique touch of teal to the display.”

Mirror Mirror

Support BBBSOC by displaying Mirror Mirror decals on windows, mirrors, doors, or any other visible spots during September and beyond.

“As a Mirror Mirror partner, you will help us raise awareness about the crucial role of mentoring and assist in recruiting volunteer mentors for the children on our waitlist by showcasing that “You’re the One We’ve Been Waiting For – Become A Mentor Today!” In addition to the decals, we will provide FAQ sheets and brochures to distribute to potential volunteers,” said Wismer-Van Meer.

Visit www.oxford.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/event/bbbsmonth2024/ to register for the kits. They will be delivered in August, to decorate for September.

“There is no cost to register and no obligations, we simply need the community’s support in raising awareness and celebrating with us. Registrations will close on Friday, Aug. 9,” she explained.