Every child deserves the chance to succeed and for many, a supportive role model can make all the difference. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Sault Ste. Married is committed to creating life-changing connections with the young people it serves.

Marc Sageloly, president of the board of directors of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Sault Ste. Marie and long-time volunteer says: “Our agency is a dedicated and supportive force for the positive development of youth in our community. Through our mentoring programs, we are a compassionate, inclusive and impactful organization that strengthens community connections.

Bridging the gap

Through its unique mentoring programs, Big Brothers Big Sisters bridges the gap between young people facing significant life challenges by helping them become more confident and resilient individuals. Mentoring is not just about offering occasional advice; it is a deep, ongoing relationship between mentors and mentees, built on trust. The agency connects children and young people with caring adults who are committed to being there for them.

Mentorships are often one-on-one meetings, but there are also couple mentorships in which a husband and wife help a young person through the ups and downs of life. There is also a gender matching program offered by the agency.

Because there is a waiting list for a “Little” to be matched with a “Big,” they developed the Big Bunch program. Sageloly says, “We put a lot of resources into the Big Bunch program because we found that if young people stay on the waiting list for a long time, they feel disconnected from Big Brothers Big Sisters. This gives them a sense of belonging even if they aren’t matched yet.

Big Bunch mentoring brings together young people facing similar challenges, which can be a wonderful support system. Sageloly adds, “We have many young people who started in the Big Bunch program who were reserved and shy and by the time they were matched with a one-on-one mentor, they were more confident and outgoing.

Become a volunteer mentor visit them online here.

The lasting impact of mentoring

Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring programs can be transformative. Studies show that mentoring can improve grades, reduce high school dropout rates, and encourage young people to be motivated and set higher academic and career goals. Sageloly says, “Knowing that someone is encouraging it makes all the difference. Treating young people with dignity and respect helps develop confidence and self-esteem.

Little Brothers Big Sisters learn about healthy relationships and how to make healthy lifestyle choices.

Dan’s Journey

Dan grew up in a whirlwind of uncertainty. He grew up in a chaotic home, facing challenges most of us can’t imagine. When his parents separated, he moved to Cambridge with his mother. He says: “My mother went into a state of deep depression and I missed a lot of school. With the help of a local pastor, I became involved with Big Brothers at the age of 6 and I remember it having a positive impact. People were trying to help me in the chaos around me.

Dan was placed in foster care between the ages of 11 and 17. He says: “I had a social worker from the Children’s Aid Society who took on the role of mentor. He taught me life skills, morals and values. He taught me what is acceptable behavior and what is not.

At 17, Dan was in a homeless shelter. Working as a dishwasher earned him enough money to move into a motel and then an apartment. After graduating from high school, he continued his college education. Dan completed two degrees, one in civil engineering and another in carpentry techniques, with distinction. He says: “I’ve been trying to move forward in life and finally I’m starting to see some sunshine. »

Today, at the age of 29, Dan owns his own contracting business, is married to an amazing wife, and has two wonderful children. He never forgot the mentoring support he received throughout his journey, which began when he was very young in Big Brothers Big Sisters. Dan says, “It’s been quite a journey, but based on what I’ve been through, I feel like I have something to offer to the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization. My life was chaotic, but many young people being mentored come from very difficult backgrounds.

One day at the Big Brothers Big Sisters office, he saw an ad for a teenager who wanted to become an engineer or carpenter and who also loved sports. Dan thought he would be the perfect partner and is now this teen’s mentor. He says: “I always wanted to be part of Big Brothers because young people need support and guidance to overcome their failures. It’s very enriching. I want to become the best father possible to my children despite the circumstances of my own childhood. I hope to be an understanding but firm parent and offer compassion and empathy to someone who needs it.

Launch of the Spark the Future 50/50 draw on November 15

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Sault Ste. Marie is a small agency that relies on donors and fundraising initiatives. Sageloly says, “Community support is crucial to maintaining and expanding our mentoring programs. As we grow, we have exciting ideas for additional programs to reach more young people.

Starting this month, they are launching a 50/50 draw online. Sageloly says: “We are very excited to launch our online 50/50 draw. Tickets can be purchased from November 15 and the first draw will take place on December 15. In the future, this will be a monthly draw, every 15th day of the month.

Participating in the draw is easy, accessible and fun and the funds raised will be used directly to support mentoring initiatives. The 50/50 draw is not just about raising funds, it is an invitation to the community to support a worthwhile program and make a real difference in the lives of young people.

Need passionate people

Big Brothers Big Sisters is also looking for people ready to get involved by becoming a member of the board of directors or a volunteer. Marc Sageloly says: “Whether you are interested in serving on a board of directors or hands-on mentoring, you could help a young person find their path in life. If you have some time to spare, why not take advantage of it? Contact us and find out how little it takes to make a big difference.

Mentoring is a powerful way to improve the lives of young people and open doors to a better future. By purchasing tickets for the new 50/50 draw online, you are investing directly in the youth of Sault Ste. Marie by creating opportunities for growth and success.

Join the community to make a difference. To purchase tickets for the Spark the Future 50/50 drawing, visit them online here.