Community Spotlight: Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast Announces Partners of the Year

VENICE – Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast is proud to announce the 2012-2013 Partners of the Year. Wells Fargo has been awarded Corporate Partner of the Year; Rotonda West Association has been awarded Organization Partner of the Year and New Hope Christian Church has been awarded Faith Based Partner of the Year.

For their exceptional generosity and philanthropic giving, BBBSSC is proud and honored to recognize Wells Fargo. Derek Jones, Gulf Coast Regional President for Wells Fargo states, “Wells Fargo is proud to support organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast that are working to improve the lives of children in our communities. We recognize the difference that one-to-one mentoring has made and continues to make in a child’s life which is why we are pleased to provide both financial contributions as well as volunteer leadership in helping to further the Big Brothers Big Sisters mission.”

We are grateful to our friends at Rotonda West Association, and are proud to recognize them for their exceptional generosity and support. Over 30 residents participate in both the community- based and school-based programs. Rotonda West Resident and board member Don Mahon states, “We are truly thrilled and honored to be selected for this special award. We are equally proud to Partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast. Our 30 mentors believe in their mission and do make a difference every day. Every child has a God-given talent. Our role is to see that talent blossom and nurture and to encourage our Littles to achieve a bright future. We all experience the rewards of mentoring and they are enormous.”

For their exceptional generosity and philanthropic giving, we are proud and honored to recognize New Hope Christian Church. For the past 9 years, New Hope Christian Church has been providing hundreds of shoes, wooden toys, and stuffed toy animals for the neediest children served in the program. Pastor Andrew Simkins states, we believe in front line services and Big Brothers Big Sisters delivers to children and families we serve at New Hope Christian Church. The adults (Bigs) gain a remarkable sense of purpose for their lives. It is as much about the adult (Big), so gratifying and glad to be a part of the young person’s life. If you are looking for purpose in your life, here is your opportunity. Don’t let it slip away.”

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast provides one-to-one mentoring relationships to children ages 6-18 years old throughout the Gulf Coast of Florida in Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, Highlands, Hardee, Charlotte, Lee, Collier, Hendry and Glades counties. For over 45 years, with the support of a dedicated group of funders and supporters, BBBSSC has been able to give promising futures to young people in our community. Our methods are proven and our foundation is solid. For more information please visit: www.bbbssun.org.