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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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*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.

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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.