Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Son’s of Italy Dinner a Smashing Success


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha M. Garcia
Tel. 561-727-3450

Son’s of Italy Dinner a Smashing Success
 Food only Part of the Fun as Raffles and Auctions are Included

November 20, 2012 (Martin County, FL) – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties (BBBS) was the proud beneficiary of the 2012 Son’s of Italy’s Columbus Day Dinner. During their November club meeting, Son’s of Italy presented BBBS with a check for $7,000!

“On behalf of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties we would like to send our utmost thanks to Son’s of Italy for choosing us to be their 2012 beneficiary,” said BBBS Executive Director of Martin County, Stacey Brownlow. “Their generosity is greatly appreciated and will not be forgotten.” 

The wonderful evening included raffles, a silent auction and a 50/50 contest. In a tremendous display of unselfishness and generosity, the 50/50 winner donated the majority of his earnings back to the agency. 

BBBS would also like to extend thanks all attendees and sponsors for making the event the huge success that it was. 

Photo Caption: Stacey Brownlow, Aleisha Garcia and Dennis Fano at November Son’s of Italy meeting at Palm Cove Golf Club in Palm City. During their monthly meeting the Son’s of Italy presented Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties with a check for $7,000.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties:

BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models.  Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County.  Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County Organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies.  Business leader ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010, and 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses.  Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

#  #  #

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

BBBS Executive Director Spreads Agency’s Message at Luncheon


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha M. Garcia
Tel. 561-727-3450

BBBS Executive Director Spreads Agency’s Message at Luncheon
Speech Includes Mentoring Programs

November 13, 2012 (Jupiter, FL)- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties(BBBS) was presented with a $250 donation during the October Abacoa Volunteer Luncheon on Tuesday, October 23, 2012. 

Stacey Brownlow, BBBS Martin County Executive Director was featured as the keynote speaker.  Ms.  Brownlow focused on the positive difference volunteers make in our community.  She discussed the Jupiter Mentoring Program as well as several other BBBS programs including community, site based, and career skills mentoring programs as well. 

“On behalf of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties I would like to thank the Abacoa Volunteer Council for allowing me this wonderful opportunity to speak on volunteerism and the BBBS cause,” she said.  “It’s due to donations and events like this one that we are able to make a difference in the lives of the children in our local communities.”
 
BBBS welcomes the opportunity for informational presentations about mentoring in Palm Beach and Martin Counties.  Please contact Jeanie Flanagan at 772-283-8112 or by email at jflanagan@mentorbig.org if interested in featuring a BBBS presenter. 

Photo Caption:
Stacey Brownlow, BBBS Executive Director of Martin County is presented a check by Beth Kelso, Executive Director of the Abacoa Property Owners Assembly

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties
BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models.  Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County.  Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County Organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies.  Business leader ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010, and 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses.  Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

#  #  #

Monday, November 12, 2012

Organizations Join Forces to Help Families in Need


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha M. Garcia
Tel. 561-727-3450
Email: agarcia@mentorbig.org

Organizations Join Forces to Help Families in Need
Second Year of Basic Needs Drive has
Potential to be More Successful than First

November 12, 2012 (Martin & Palm Beach County, FL) - For the second consecutive year, Dollar General will team up with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS) for a basic needs drive during the Holiday season. The drive begins on November 12th and concludes on December 16th. Collection bins will be placed at Dollar General locations in Martin and Palm Beach County.

Last year Dollar General shoppers indulged themselves in the giving spirit, donating hundreds of items to children for the holiday season. This year, expectations are for even more contributions.

“We are grateful to partner with an amazing organization like Dollar General to alleviate some of the stress the holiday season can create for local families facing adversity,” said BBBS President and CEO William P. Bee, Jr.

Basic needs items donated can include socks, T-shirts, toothpaste, shampoo, sheets, detergent, and more. To participate in the holiday drive, visit any Dollar General location in Martin or Palm Beach County and look for the donation box near the cash register. If you are interested in making a cash donation, please contact BBBS at 561-727-3450.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County Organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies. Business leader ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010, and 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Golf Open Swings into Holiday Season


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha M. Garcia
Tel. 561-727-3450

Golf Open Swings into Holiday Season
Play to be accompanied by Dinner Reception and Auction

November 7, 2012 (Martin County, FL)-Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties(BBBS) will be hosting the 8th annual Santa Claus Open Golf Tournament on Friday, December 7th at Hobe Sound Golf Club. Treasure Coast Estate Buyers and Publix Super Markets are proud to be the 2012 Co-Signature Sponsors for the upcoming event. Participants are invited to a round of golf, a fabulous dinner reception and auction. 

Golfers will enjoy the pristine setting, a challenging game and the chance to win exciting prizes! All proceeds will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties, and players are requested to bring an unwrapped toy for a child participating in our programs.
BBBS is currently accepting sponsors, foursomes, auction donations and raffle prizes to be featured at the event.  Registration is $250 per golfer, and $900 per foursome if a payment is submitted and received by November 16th. Registration is currently available online at www.SantaOpen.com.  
Photo Caption:
BOT member Frank Byers at Santa Claus Open Golf Tournament at Hobe Sound Golf Club. Photo provided by Judy Swan.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models.  Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County.  Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County Organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies.  Business leader ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010, and 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses.  Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

#  #  #

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Excitement on High Alert at Match Activity


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha Garcia
Tel. 561-727-3450
Email: agarcia@mentorbig.org

Excitement on High Alert at Match Activity
Quench Your Palette offers Scary Good Fun to Matches

October 30, 2012 (Jensen Beach, FL)- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS) enjoyed their Fall Match Activity at Quench your Palette in Jensen Beach on Saturday, October 20th. During their activity BBBS “Bigs” and “Littles” painted pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns on canvas.
The events lively atmosphere was at a perfect pitch to get everyone into the Halloween spirit. BBBS was thrilled to bring our matches in to experience this enjoyable morning together.

“Sadie and I had a blast painting on Saturday,” said Big Sister and Marketing & Event Coordinator, Aleisha Garcia, “We enjoyed creating our pumpkins just in time for Halloween. We are looking forward to going back to paint as we get closer to the holiday season.”

BBBS is always searching for new activities for our matches to take part in. Community businesses interested in sponsoring a BBBS match activity can contact Jeanie Flanagan at 561-727-3450 or at jflanagan@mentorbig.org. The support of the community can really make the difference in young people’s lives.

Photo Captions:
BBBS matches at Quench Your Palette in Jensen Beach

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties-

BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County Organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies. Business leader ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010, and 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

Fundraiser Jump Starts Donations Test Drives to Accumulate Money for Great Cause


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha M. Garcia
Tel. 561-727-3450
Email: agarcia@mentorbig.org

Fundraiser Jump Starts Donations Test Drives to Accumulate Money for Great Cause

October 29, 2012(Stuart, FL) - Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties will team up with Advantage Ford of Stuart to host “Drive 4 Ur Community,” on Saturday, November 3rd, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The community is invited to come take a free test-drive and Ford Motor Company will donate up to $6,000 to BBBS! This is a fundraiser that will benefit children in our local communities!

Each and every valid test drive completed is positioned to donate $20 to BBBS. BBBS has a lofty but attainable goal of 300 test drives at the event, as $6,000 is the maximum cumulative donation, but this success is squarely dependent on the participation of the community.

Participants need not feel any pressure to purchase a vehicle to take part, for interest in this is not required. A valid driver’s license will suffice, with the driver being at least 18 years of age. Advantage Ford of Stuart’s General Manager is John Hall, a member of BBBS’ Board of Trustees. In hosting this potentially profitable fundraiser, Advantage Ford of Stuart will be contributing to a cause in which they are also a business mentor in the BBBS’ Career Skills Mentoring Program.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies-Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010 and again in 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

# # #

*No purchase necessary. Must be 18 years of age or older with a valid driver’s license. Donation of $20 per valid test-drive up to 300 total test-drives for a maximum total donation of $6,000 per event. Limit one (1) donation per household.

Monday, October 15, 2012

Sponsors and Community Ignite Casino Night Success


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha M. Garcia

Sponsors and Community Ignite Casino Night Success
Contributions to be Heralded in Helping Great Cause

October 15, 2012 (Palm Beach Gardens, FL)- Thanks to the generosity of the community, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties (BBBS) was able to raise over $17,000 at their inaugural Casino Night on October 6, 2012, at BallenIsles Country Club in Palm Beach Gardens.  The event exceeded expectations thanks to the overwhelming support given by local patrons and businesses. 

During the night BBBS guests received 5,000 in FREE gaming chips, open bar, hors d’oeurves, a gourmet buffet dinner and a chance to win fantastic raffle prizes. Raffle prizes included gift certificates to various restaurants, jewelry and show tickets. Guests enjoyed playing classic casino games, such as Craps, Roulette, Black Jack, Texas Hold’em and Slot Machines.

BBBS would like to thank the 2012 Casino Night sponsors for their dedication to helping improve the lives of children in the local community. 2012 Sponsors Included:

·         Byer’s Autogroup
·         Northwood University
·         Mr. & Mrs. Jim Healy
·         Mr. & Mrs. Terence FitzGerald
·         Keiser University
·         BBBS Martin County Advisory Board

“It is the generosity of the community and businesses that allows our organization to continue improving the lives of local children,” said Bill Bee, President and CEO of BBBS.  “We would like to thank everyone who came out to support our inaugural event in Palm Beach Gardens.” 

All proceeds from Casino Night will go toward funding Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties’ programs.

Photo Caption: Photo Provided by Penny Sheltz- Gary Vonk, Stacey Brownlow, Delsa Bush, Bill Bee, Mary Healy and Ken Ringe at Casino Night on Saturday, October 6, 2012.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies-Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010 and again in 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

#  #  #

The Casino Gaming tables are provided for entertainment purposes only by Casino Party Nights, Florida, Inc, tel. 954-926-4219.  All Donations and proceeds go to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin County.

Monday, October 1, 2012

Casino Night Nearing Arrival


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha M. Garcia
Tel. 561-727-3450

Casino Night Nearing Arrival
Raffles, Auctions and Games Headline Event

October 1, 2012 (Palm Beach Gardens, FL)- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties(BBBS) will be hosting Casino Night on Saturday, October 6, 2012.  The event is to take place at BallenIsles Country Club located in Palm Beach Gardens, beginning at 6:00 p.m.  Admission is $150 per person, with tickets currently available for purchase at www.MentorBig.org/CasinoNight

Upon entry guests will receive 5,000 in FREE gaming chips, open bar, hors d’oeurves and a chance to win fantastic raffle prizes.  Casino night will be highlighted by an abundance of prizes featuring SunFest tickets, Cruzan Amphitheatre tickets, Comedy Club passes and a private wine tasting.  In addition, a silent auction will include items such as a Ride for 2 in the Good Year Blimp and a Radical Ride at Palm Beach International Raceway.
Casino Night games include Craps, Texas Hold’em, Slot Machines, Roulette and Black Jack.  The dress code is Country Club casual. 

All proceeds from Casino Night will go toward funding Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties’ programs.  Those interested in attending the event must register online at www.MentorBig.org/CasinoNight or call 561-727-3450 to reserve a spot, as space is limited. And for anyone who desires to help, BBBS is also looking for event sponsors and donations for the auction and raffle prizes.

Photo Caption:
The Casino Night logo was designed by Keiser University student Alexis Pineda. Alexis has been a student at Keiser University for one year and is scheduled to graduate in 2013.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies-Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010 and again in 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

#  #  #
The Casino Gaming tables are provided for entertainment purposes only by Casino Party Nights, Florida, Inc, tel. 954-926-4219.  All Donations and proceeds go to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin County. 
       

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Publix Super Markets and Publix Patrons Make a BIG Difference


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha Garcia
agarcia@mentorbig.org
Phone: 561-727-3450

Publix Super Markets and Publix Patrons Make a BIG Difference

September 5, 2011 (Palm Beach, FL) – Students at Lincoln Elementary School (LES) and Pleasant City Community Elementary School (PCCES) are ready for the school year thanks to the generous donations of Publix patrons. Friday, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS) CEO Bill Bee, Publix Super Markets Regional Director Chuck White, WPB City Commissioner Sylvia Moffett, PB Commissioner Priscilla Taylor, Spirit of Giving Karen Krumholtz and Dan Calloway presented principals Dr. Tracy Sims and Dr. Moneek McTier with boxes of school supplies.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS) received a delivery of school supplies valued at over $116,000 from Publix Super Markets. Two Men and a Truck and Advantage Ford of Stuart have been instrumental in helping BBBS distribute the supplies. BBBS will be distributing school supplies to over 30 schools in addition to children in BBBS programs in Palm Beach and Martin County. It is anticipated that this should be enough school supplies to serve over 11,000 students.

Students will be receiving notebook paper, pencils, glue, folders, rulers, highlighters and much more! BBBS is so thankful for the opportunity to provide local children with the supplies that they need to succeed in the classroom.
  
“Big Brothers Big Sisters is fortunate to have the support of Publix Super Market and their shoppers,” said BBBS President and CEO, William Bee. “It is the continued generous support of businesses like Publix that serves to provide our organization with the opportunity to create better lives for the children in our community.”
                                                                                                                                       
"Publix is happy to partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties throughout the year," said Kim Reynolds, Publix’s Miami media and community relations manager. "We’d like to thank our customers and associates who generously gave to this campaign and are so pleased that together we were able to make such a large donation of school supplies this year. We are proud to support this organization and the children and families they serve in our community."

Photo Caption:
Spirit of Giving Karen Krumholtz, Dan Calloway, PCCES Principal Dr. Moneek McTier, PB Commissioner Priscilla Taylor, WPB City Commissioner Sylvia Moffett, Publix Regional Director Chuck White, BBBS CEO Bill Bee, LES Principal Dr. Tracy Sims and LES students thank Publix Super Market and their patrons for their generous donation of school supplies.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies nationwide. BBBSA recognized CEO William P. Bee Jr. as “CEO of the Year- Small Agency Category” in 2007. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010 and again in 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

Publix and Big Brothers Big Sisters Come Together To Make a “Big” Difference For Local Students


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha Garcia
agarcia@mentorbig.org
Phone: 561-727-3450
Publix and Big Brothers Big Sisters Come
Together To Make a “Big” Difference For Local Students
 
August 29, 2011 (Martin County, FL) - Students in Martin County will be stocked up for the school year thanks to the generous donations of Publix shoppers. Last week, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS) received a delivery of school supplies valued at over $116,000 from Publix Super Markets.

Two Men and a Truck and Advantage Ford of Stuart have been instrumental in helping BBBS distribute the supplies. BBBS has been able to distribute school supplies to:

  • Hobe Sound Elementary
  • Seawind Elementary
  • Port Salerno Elementary
  • Pinewood Elementary
  • Warfield Elementary
  • JD Parker Elementary
  • Jensen Beach Elementary
  • Stuart Middle School
  • Murray Middle School
Students will be receiving notebook paper, pencils, glue, folders, rulers, highlighters and much more! BBBS is so thankful for the opportunity to provide our local children with the supplies that they need to succeed in the classroom.

Publix Super Markets worked with BBBS to generate donated school supplies for the Tools for Kids annual drive. Last year Publix customers donated enough supplies for over 2,500 students in Palm Beach and Martin County. This year BBBS and Publix will be able to help more children in this time of need.

“Big Brothers Big Sisters is fortunate to have the support of Publix Super Market and their shoppers,” said BBBS President and CEO, William Bee. “It is the continued generous support of businesses like Publix that serves to provide our organization with the opportunity to create better lives for the children in our community.”

"Publix is happy to partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties throughout the year," said Kim Reynolds, Publix’s Miami media and community relations manager. "We’d like to thank our customers and associates who generously gave to this campaign and are so pleased that together we were able to make such a large donation of school supplies this year. We are proud to support this organization and the children and families they serve in our community."

Photo Caption:
Photo 1: Publix delivers school supplies to Two Men and a Truck in Palm Beach County.
Photo 2: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties distributes school supplies to Hobe Sound Elementary School on Thursday, August 23rd. Hobe Sound faculty and students receive supplies from Publix representatives, BBBS Staff, Advantage Ford, BBBS Board Members and Hobe Sound Community Chest.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties
BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies nationwide. BBBSA recognized CEO William P. Bee Jr. as “CEO of the Year- Small Agency Category” in 2007. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010 and again in 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

Friday, August 17, 2012

Mentoring Program to Help Children of Palm Beach & Martin County Military Families


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha Garcia
Phone: 561-727-3450

Mentoring Program to Help Children of Palm Beach & Martin County Military Families

West Palm Beach – August 17, 2012 –Congressman Allen West, Dr. Angela West, Veteran and Mother Tamika McCray, BBBS staff and Palm Beach County military post members gathered at the Palm Beach County BBBS office this week to launch the first-of-its-kind Military Mentoring Program. This program focuses on providing one-to-one mentoring to children of currently serving and recently returning service members in Palm Beach and Martin County. An estimated 1,230 children of military service members reside in Palm Beach County and an estimated 110 children of military service members reside in Martin County. 

The Big Brothers Big Sisters Military Mentoring Program will provide mentors for children of veterans and active duty service members so they realize their potential and build positive futures. The program’s goal is to provide a source of strength and stability for families that have sacrificed during deployments overseas. The program will encourage positive behaviors, develop new relationships, decrease child activity in risky behaviors, and strengthen family bonds. Children in these families often suffer from the stress and anxiety of being separated from their parents. BBBS wants to support these families by providing mentoring to the children in the hopes that it will help them cope in healthy ways. BBBS provides children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever.

Yvette Flores, Air Force veteran and BBBS Match and Enrollment Specialist, has been working hard on developing this program. She was a Surgical Technologist at David Grant Medical Center, Travis Air Force Base in California and Bagram Airbase, Afghanistan. Her own experience being in the military has helped her to organize this project.

“We hope to make a positive impact in these children’s lives through Military Mentoring,” said Yvette Flores. “These children face many unique challenges. We want to encourage their healthy growth and ensure that they grow up understanding and appreciating the valuable service military members provide to the country.”

"Many people do not realize how many military families we have living right here in Palm Beach and Martin Counties," said Big Brothers Big Sisters Palm Beach and Martin Counties CEO Bill Bee.  "Big Brothers Big Sisters is thrilled to be able to serve the children of our veterans. This program is a long time coming and our community will no doubt be better off because of it."
 
"As a 22-year Army veteran, I know personally the pain of leaving my own two daughters behind as I deployed to serve my country," West said. "The Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program will be a huge benefit to our local military families."

Photo Caption: (Left to Right)
Back Row-Congressman Allen West, Yvette Flores, Tamika McCray, William P. Bee, Jr.
Front Row- Jeremiah, Issaiah and Joshua

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies nationwide. BBBSA recognized CEO William P. Bee Jr. as “CEO of the Year- Small Agency Category” in 2007. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010 and again in 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.


Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Mentoring Program to Help Children of Palm Beach & Martin County Military Families


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha Garcia
Phone: 561-727-3450

Mentoring Program to Help Children of Palm Beach & Martin County Military Families

West Palm Beach – August 14, 2012 –Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties, Military Families and Representative Allen West (R-FL) are proud to announce that registration is now open for a mentoring program to serve the children of South Florida military families.
The first-of-its-kind program in Palm Beach and Martin Counties focuses on providing one-to-one mentoring to children of currently serving and recently returning service members now living in South Florida. An estimated 1,230 children of military service members reside in Palm Beach County and an estimated 110 children of military service members reside in Martin County.  
The Big Brothers Big Sisters Military Mentoring Program will provide mentors for children of veterans and active duty service members so they realize their potential and build positive futures. The program’s goal is to provide a source of strength and stability for families that have sacrificed during deployments overseas. The program will encourage positive behaviors, develop new relationships, decrease child activity in risky behaviors, and strengthen family bonds. Children in these families often suffer from the stress and anxiety of being separated from their parents. BBBS wants to support these families by providing mentoring to the children in the hopes that it will help them cope in healthy ways. BBBS provides children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever.
Yvette Flores, Air Force veteran and BBBS Match and Enrollment Specialist, has been working hard on developing this program. She was a Surgical Technologist at David Grant Medical Center, Travis Air Force Base in California and Bagram Airbase, Afghanistan. Yvette graduated with high honors and was the recipient of numerous awards and honors; both in school and in the service. Her own experience being in the military has helped her to organize this project.

“We hope to make a positive impact in these children’s lives through Military Mentoring,” said Yvette Flores. “These children face many unique challenges. We want to encourage their healthy growth and ensure that they grow up understanding and appreciating the valuable service military members provide to the country.”

"As a 22-year Army veteran, I know personally the pain of leaving my own two daughters behind as I deployed to serve my country," West said. "The Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program will be a huge benefit to our local military families."

Members of the press are invited to join us this week:

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties
Military Mentoring Program Kick-Off
Thursday, August 16th at 12:30 pm
1700 Kirk Rd, West Palm Beach, FL 33406

*Palm Beach County military veteran and mother Tamika McCray and her children Jeremiah, Joshua, and Isaiah have been officially chosen as the first family inducted into the Military Mentoring Program.  They will be on hand to tell their story.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies nationwide. BBBSA recognized CEO William P. Bee Jr. as “CEO of the Year- Small Agency Category” in 2007. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS in 2009 and again in 2010 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

Friday, August 10, 2012

Big Brothers Big Sisters Treat Kids to an Educational Tour of Caring Fields


For Immediate Release
Contact: Aleisha Garcia
Phone: 561-727-4450

Big Brothers Big Sisters Treat Kids to an Educational Tour of Caring Fields

Martin County – August 10, 2012 –Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS) treated sixteen “Bigs” and “Littles” to an educational tour of Caring Fields Animal Sanctuary in Palm City. The facility is known for their rehabilitation of abused and neglected horses and cats.

The visit included a Humane Education Presentation by Susan Hargreaves. This presentation helped the children become more aware of animal abuse.  She provided them with an Animal Hero card with local phone numbers they can call if they see or suspect abuse. 

On the guided tour, “Bigs” and “Littles” explored several large paddocks for the horses and a large stable with several stalls. The children and their mentors also visited the rehabilitated cats, who enjoy a huge enclosed area with many clean bungalows where they live, sleep and explore.  Caring Fields’ goal with these animals is for eventual adoption into permanent homes.  There are over 100 volunteers who are dedicated to the safety and cleanliness of all the animals.

The children who participated in this outing had an excellent time with the animals while spending valuable quality time with their mentors. BBBS works hard to provide these types of free or low-cost events in order to help children create healthy and satisfying memories.

Photo Caption: Lucas at Caring Fields in Palm City, Florida.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties
BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies nationwide. BBBSA recognized CEO William P. Bee Jr. as “CEO of the Year- Small Agency Category” in 2007. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010 and again in 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

Mentoring Program to Help Children of South Florida Military Families


Mentoring Program to Help Children Of South Florida Military Families
Nationally Renowned Program is First in Florida

For Immediate Release
Contact: Angela Melvin
Communications Director
(202) 731-1778
(WEST PALM BEACH, FL)--- August 9, 2012--Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties, children of South Florida active duty military and veterans and their families, Representative Allen West (R-FL) and other distinguished community leaders are proud to announce a new mentoring program to serve the children of South Florida military families. 
The first-of-its-kind program in Palm Beach and Martin Counties focuses on providing one-to-one mentoring to children of currently serving and recently returning service members now living in South Florida. An estimated 1,230 children of military service members reside in Palm Beach County and an estimated 110 children of military service members reside in Martin County.  
The Big Brothers Big Sisters Military Mentoring program will provide mentors for children of veterans and active duty service members so they realize their potential and build positive futures. The program’s goal is to provide a source of strength and stability for families that have sacrificed during deployments overseas.
"Many people do not realize how many military families we have living right here in Palm Beach and Martin Counties," said Big Brothers Big Sisters Palm Beach and Martin Counties Chief Executive Officer Bill Bee.  "Big Brothers Big Sisters is thrilled to be able to serve the children of our veterans. This program is a long time coming and our community will no doubt be better off because of it."
"As a 22-year Army veteran, I know personally the pain of leaving my own two daughters behind as I deployed to serve my country," West said. "The Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program will be a huge benefit to our local military families."
Please join us a week from today:
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties
Military Mentoring Program Kick-Off
Thursday, August 16th12:30 pm
1700 Kirk Rd, West Palm Beach, FL 33406
*Palm Beach County military spouse Tamika McCray and her children Jeremiah, Joshua, and Isaiah have been officially chosen as the first family inducted into the Military Mentoring Program.  They will be on hand to tell their story.
BACKGROUND:  Big Brothers Big Sisters Palm Beach and Martin Counties provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies nationwide. BBBSA recognized CEO William P. Bee Jr. as “CEO of the Year- Small Agency Category” in 2007. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010 and again in 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.

Publix Super Markets Charities Grants $10,000 to Big Brothers Big Sisters


For Immediate Release
Contact: Kara Justi
Phone: 561-727-3450

Publix Super Markets Charities Grants $10,000 to Big Brothers Big Sisters

Stuart, FL – July 24, 2012 – Publix Super Market Charities generously presented Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties (BBBS) with a check for $10,000 to support their community-based mentoring programs.

Publix Super Market Charities has been a strong supporter of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties for many years. Publix partnered with BBBS on the Publix School Tools for Cool Kids program, providing much needed school supplies to children in the community. Publix also participated in BBBS golf tournaments and The Taste of Martin County. In addition to their corporate level of support, Thom Padrick, Cove Road Publix store manager is also a valuable member of the BBBS Board of Trustees.

One of Publix Super Market Charities’ major goals is to improve the lives of the people in our communities, and their investment in BBBS will most assuredly achieve that goal. The nonprofit organization’s community-based mentoring program provides mentors for local children facing adversity. The mentoring experiences are proven to increase self-esteem, increase social skills, and even improve in school. Publix’s $10,000 investment will make an incredible difference in the lives of the children BBBS serves.

“Big Brothers Big Sisters is fortunate to have the support of Publix Super Market Charities,” said BBBS President and CEO, William Bee. “It is the continued generous support of businesses like Publix that serves to provide our organization with the opportunity to create better lives for the children in our community.”

Photo Caption: Left to right: Thom Padrick of Publix, John Yudin, BBBS Board Chairmen, Guy Yudin & Foster, LLP., Mike Pogue, BBBS Finance Director, and  Stacey Brownlow, BBBS Martin County Executive Director.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties
BBBS provides children facing adversity aged 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. Since 1986 the organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County and since July 2010 in Palm Beach County. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies nationwide. BBBSA recognized CEO William P. Bee Jr. as “CEO of the Year- Small Agency Category” in 2007. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010 and again in 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. Visit www.mentorbig.org to learn more.