Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Kids and Supporters Have a Blast at MegaBash

For Immediate Release

Contact: Aleisha Garcia

agarcia@mentorbig.org

Phone: 561-727-3450

Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Kids and Supporters Have a Blast at MegaBash

Jupiter, FL – July 18, 2012 – Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS) had their supporters, mentors, kids and their families out for a night of music, baseball, and fireworks at Roger Dean’s MegaBash, the July 4th game at Roger Dean Stadium.

It was a great night for all those who attended. After the game, Roger Dean Stadium treated those in attendance with a fireworks show and live music from the Tom Jackson Band.

Roger Dean was generous enough to offer the nonprofit organization discounted tickets to the big event for kids and their families to enjoy on their holiday. Big Brothers Big Sisters was able to provide 200 tickets for families, giving them BBBS t-shirts to wear to the game and vouchers for the concession stands.  BBBS also had a table set up at the game to encourage people to sign up as new mentors.

The organization is currently recruiting mentors, especially because of the growth of their new Jupiter mentoring program. This is an exciting opportunity for children residing in Jupiter to learn new skills and gain self confidence in a fun and safe environment. Each student participating in this program will be matched one-to one with a mentor and participate in various group activities and a community service event. Those who are interested may call BBBS Customer Relations Specialist, Jeanie Flanagan at 772.283.8112.

“Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties is so fortunate to have such wonderful partnerships with businesses in the community,” said Stacey Brownlow, Martin County Executive Director. “We are thrilled to be able to offer our new Jupiter Mentoring Program. Our programs are only possible because of the generosity of our community.”

Photo Caption:

Front Row: Siblings, Jason and Kaitlin attending baseball game with Kaitlin’s Big Sister Darlene Doyle.

Back Row: BBBS Customer Relations Specialist, Jeanie Flanagan

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.

Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Welcomes New Palm Beach Program Manager, Courtney Frost

For Immediate Release

Contact: Aleisha Garcia

agarcia@mentorbig.org

Phone: 561-727-3450

Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Welcomes New Palm Beach Program Manager, Courtney Frost

Palm Beach County, FL – July 13, 2012 - Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS) is excited to bring Courtney Frost, the nonprofit organization’s new Palm Beach County Program Manager, on board. As Program Manager for the nonprofit organization, Courtney Frost will supervise all Palm Beach programs, such as the Jupiter Mentoring Program, Boca Raton Think Big Club, and the Career Skills Program at Roosevelt Middle School.

Courtney Frost comes to BBBS with an extensive background in program development and management. As the Project Facilitator for the Center for Brain Health in the University of Texas at Dallas, Frost implemented the Strategic Memory and Reasoning Training (SMART) research program throughout middle schools in Texas, which worked toward strengthening critical thinking skills among adolescents. It was her job to teach and develop curriculum for the program as well as for employee training. Her work with adolescents will be a great contribution to BBBS, which focuses on the needs of children and adolescents in the community.

Furthermore, Frost’s experience as the Family Coordinator for the University of Texas’ Blackberry Project makes her a perfect fit for BBBS. In this position, she scheduled families for annual research, coordinated and supervised family visits, as well as maintained their enormous database. Her hard work with programs similar to the ones BBBS offers is a huge benefit to the organization’s program development department.

Frost has a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Criminology from the University of Oklahoma, and a Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of Texas. She concentrated her Master’s work in Social Psychology, making her a great asset to BBBS, an organization focused on the social needs of youth through its mentoring programs. Her quality of education and experience will provide Big Brothers Big Sisters with the opportunity to build upon its successful programs and encourage the growth of new ones.

"I am thrilled to join the exemplary Big Brothers Big Sisters’ staff,” said Courtney Frost. “I am excited about the continued potential opportunities I hope to bring to the Palm Beach and Martin County community."

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.

Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Kids Have a Blast at 5th Annual Grand Slam Kid's Fishing Day

For Immediate Release

Contact: Aleisha Garcia

agarcia@mentorbig.org

Phone: 561-727-3450

Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Kids Have a Blast at 5th Annual Grand Slam Kid's Fishing Day

Jupiter, FL – July 10, 2012 - The 5th Annual Grand Slam Kid’s Fishing Day in Jupiter was an exciting and successful event for the children participating in Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties’ (BBBS) mentoring  programs.

The fishing tournament took place on Saturday morning June 9, 2012 at Castaways Marina, and it was the second year BBBS was invited to participate. Among the 93 kids who participated, many were from BBBS, fishing with their mentors on three of Jupiter's top Charters: "Black Dog," "Mystic Rose," and "Samana.” The kids had a blast yet again this year; it was a very memorable event for this future generation of anglers.

It was a busy day of fishing, and when the fish were weighed in, one of the children from BBBS, Andy, came in third place in the snapper category!

All the winners from the Snapper category were:

1st- Zach "No Loose Ends” 3.69lbs

2nd- Lane “Crumb Catcher” 3.20lbs

3rd- Andy “Black Dog” 1.77 lbs

The fishing tournament was an exciting event for BBBS kids, and Big Brothers Big Sisters would like to thank Park Avenue Grill for providing lunch, Brown Distributing for providing beverages, Jimmy Burg and Castaways Marina for generously allowing the organization to use their beautiful facilities, as well as the Grand Slam Family and Friends for all of their help.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties is also extremely grateful to everyone who sponsored a child to fish this year, including Taylor & Modeen Funeral Home, Eric Glass, Lev Mullins, Paul Giusti, Weshnak Family Foundation, and Harry J. Schafer III. These generous sponsors helped to create a very special day for these future anglers.

Jeanie Flanagan, Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Customer and Public Relations Specialist, has attended the fishing tournament the past 2 years. “One of the reasons we’ve been invited back is that the owners of Grand Slam Tournament have complimented BBBS on how well behaved our kids are,” she said. “We are so excited to be able participate year after year in such a great tournament!”

Photo Caption: Little Brother, Andy with his winning fish! Photo courtesy of photographer Leonard Bryant.

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.orgto learn more.

Sonny’s “Gives Back” to Big Brothers Big Sisters on Thursday, July 5th

For Immediate Release

Contact: Aleisha Garcia

agarcia@mentorbig.org

Phone: 561-727-3450

Sonny’s “Gives Back” to Big Brothers Big Sisters
on Thursday, July 5^th

Stuart, FL- July 2, 2012 – Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q is holding a Give Back night for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties.

When: Thursday, July 5, 2012, 5:00 to 9:00 pm.

Where: Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q. 1961 SW Federal Highway, Stuart, FL 34994.

Details: Sonny’s will donate 10% of its proceeds to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties for each flyer presented.  Flyers can be downloaded at www.mentorbig.org.  Only “dine-in” customers will be allowed to participate. There will also be a Thursday night special of a full slab of baby back ribs for $11.99!

Sonny’s will be holding a give back night for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties the first Thursday of every month.

“We are so excited to be working with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties. At Sonny’s, Community involvement is a top priority,” said Sonny’s Catering Manager, Kathy Carroll. “Come out and support a great cause on July 5^th!”

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.

Mulligan’s Beach House Partners with Big Brothers Big Sisters for 12 Weeks of Summer

Mulligan’s Beach House Partners with Big Brothers Big Sisters for 12 Weeks of Summer

Martin County – June 22, 2012 – Mulligan’s Beach House is partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties for 12 Weeks of Summer, a weekly event to benefit nonprofit organizations.

What: Mulligan’s is hosting a Luau Party with Hula Spongebob! Kids eat free with the purchase of an adult entrée and a child beverage. Kids are also invited to enjoy free face painting, crafts, a toy, and  balloons. We also encourage everyone to dress up in their best tropical wear!

When: June 28, 2012, 5pm-8pm

Where: Mulligan’s Beach House in Downtown Stuart and Jensen Beach.

10% of the proceeds will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties.

“This will be a fun and exciting event for the children,” said Big Brothers and Big Sisters Martin County Executive Director, Stacey Brownlow. “We are extremely grateful to Mulligan’s for their generosity and for taking an interest in our organization.”

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.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Welcomes New Fund Development Director, Kelly Ring

For Immediate Release

Contact: Aleisha Garcia

agarcia@mentorbig.org

Phone: 561-727-3450

Big Brothers Big Sisters Welcomes New Fund Development Director, Kelly Ring

Palm Beach County – June 25, 2012 – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS) is excited to announce that Kelly Ring will be joining the organization as its new Fund Development Director. Kelly Ring comes to BBBS from Girl Scouts and has an extensive background in the fund development field. Ring will use this experience in BBBS’ fund development department, working on major gifts, special events, and corporate partnerships, as well as cultivating prospective major individual and corporate donors.

As the Director of Development at Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida, Ring developed and directed the sustainable events program, managed all grant writing, and worked closely with prospective donors, just to name a few of her significant responsibilities. Her work at the American Red Cross as Coordinator of Special Events and Development will also be an excellent contribution to BBBS. At the Red Cross, Ring worked tirelessly on building donor relationships and on the development and use of funds. Furthermore, her extensive background as an elementary school special needs teacher makes her a great fit for BBBS, of which the main goal is to help children suffering from all sorts of adversity.

Ring has a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education from the University of Florida and training in mental health counseling. Her education and training will be very useful at BBBS, an organization that focuses on the benefits of mentoring, an activity in which patience and understanding is key, attributes which Ring clearly has. It is this diverse and well-developed background that will greatly impact the future well-being of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties and encourage the organization’s further growth.

“We are extremely thrilled to have Kelly on board,” said William Bee, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties. “Her experience and skills will greatly benefit our organization.”

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.

Macy’s Donates Large Sum to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

For Immediate Release

Contact: Aleisha Garcia

agarcia@mentorbig.org

Phone: 561-727-3450

Macy’s Donates Large Sum to Big Brothers Big Sisters
of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

Martin & Palm Beach County – June 20, 2012 – Macy’s recently donated $43,118.22 to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS) through Macy’s Thanks for Sharing program, which ran from September to December 31, 2012. Martin County and Palm Beach County Macy's have gone above and beyond for BBBS. Macy's includes BBBS in their Thanks for Sharing Campaign, Shop for a Cause Campaign, and they also host a Shopping Spree for 75 of our local children.

Thanks for Sharing is an excellent program began by Macy’s in 2003 that benefits both Macy’s customers and various nonprofit organizations. It runs through November and December every year; customers enroll in the program for $25, and they receive a 10% off coupon in return. For each customer enrolled, Macy’s gives $10 to charity. Other charities served by this program include the American Heart Association, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, as well as the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and other local charities including the Boys and Girls Club.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties received a total of $43,118.22 from the Thanks for Sharing program. “We are extremely grateful for Macy’s generous donation,” said President/CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties, William P. Bee, Jr. “It is only with the support of generous companies like Macy’s are we able to keep serving the children in our communities.”

Photo Caption: Stacey Brownlow: Martin County BBBS Executive Director, Richard Levine: Treasure Coast Square Mall Macy’s General Manager, William P. Bee, Jr: BBBS President/CEO, Drew Garrell: District Vice President- Macy's Ft Lauderdale & Palm Beach District, Norman Murphy: Macy’s Director of Operations, and Robert Kremler: Macy’s Director of Human Resources.

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.