Big Brothers Big Sisters of Grey Bruce and Western Simcoe (BBBSGBWS) has received technology project funding of $38,880 through the Government of Canada’s Community Services Recovery Fund to upgrade and adapt their foundational systems. This upgrade will support and improve long-term community engagement and will strengthen youth programs.
The Community Services Recovery Fund was awarded in the spring of 2023 to help BBBSGBWS adapt to the changing landscape. Many community service organizations, including BBBSGBWS, struggle with increasing demand for their services, reduced revenues, declines in charitable giving, and a greater reliance on digital tools. To support the vital work done by these organizations, and to help them adapt and modernize their operations to grow their support in communities, the Government of Canada established the one-time $400 million Community Services Recovery Fund. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Grey Bruce and Western Simcoe is grateful to have been selected as one of more than 5,000 projects funded under this initiative.
“Investing in our communications and fundraising strategies and approaches will ensure our agency has the internal resources to effectively navigate the changing market and strategically plan for the future. With newfound communication and fundraising efficiencies, our organization can re-allocate time and the increased funds to better serve our community,” said Beth Aubrey, Executive Director.
“Community service organizations are at the heart of communities like Grey Bruce and Western Simcoe, creating a sense of belonging from coast to coast to coast. The Community Services Recovery Fund will enable organizations like Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Grey Bruce and Western Simcoe that serve our diverse communities to adapt and modernize their programs and services and to invest in the future of their organizations, staff, and volunteers. Together, we can rebuild from the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic and build a more just and equitable future for those in Grey Bruce and Western Simcoe,” noted Jenna Sudds, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Grey Bruce and Western Simcoe has been supporting youth and families for over 60 years. As an organization, its collective mission is to promote the healthy development of all children and youth within local communities through a variety of high quality, volunteer-based, no-cost mentoring programs.
The Community Services Recovery Fund is being delivered through three National Funders – Canadian Red Cross, Community Foundations of Canada, and United Way Centraide Canada. Additionally, BBBSGBWS would like to thank United Way of Grey Bruce, Community Foundation Grey Bruce, and Canadian Red Cross – Owen Sound for their work in the Community Services Recovery Fund and their continued support for our region.
Visit https://communityservicesrecoveryfund.ca/ to learn more.
