Big Brothers Big Sisters Celebrates their Graduating Class of Career Skills’ Interns in Martin County

For Immediate Release

Contact: Aleisha Coleman

agarcia@mentorbig.org

Phone: 772-678-7487

Big Brothers Big Sisters Celebrates their Graduating 

Class of Career Skills’ Interns in Martin County

Martin County, FL – June 5, 2013 – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS) recently celebrated the graduation of 26 interns who took part in the Career Skills Mentoring Program at Stuart Middle School and Murray Middle School. BBBS would like to thank their funders, business mentors, interns and school supporters for helping make this year’s program possible. The graduation took place at Grace Place in Stuart. Sonny’s BBQ and Seacoast National Bank generously donated food and beverages for the event.

The Career Skills Mentoring Program provides middle school students in 8^th grade with the opportunity to gain employment skills. Students in the program received one hour a week of training and mentoring in basic job skills, such as how to fill out job applications, how to “dress for success,” and interviewing techniques. Motivational speakers explained the importance of an education and demonstrated the qualities of successful employees. The students applied for positions with BBBS business partners and were matched with their business mentor who provided on-the-job guidance. Students received a stipend and are leaving the program with meaningful job experience and training. This program is funded in part by the Children's Services Council of Martin County.

"The Children's Services Council of Martin County is a proud supporter of Big Brothers Big Sisters," said Suzanne Wentley, the Council's public education coordinator. "But more so, we were grateful for the help of a 'Little,' who volunteered at our office every week and was mentored by our administrative assistant, Frances Kaleta."

“I enjoy watching this program grow year after year,” said Derick Hayhurst, career skills mentoring program match support specialist at BBBS. “We appreciate the dedication of the businesses that help make this program possible.”

BBBS is looking for more business mentors for next year to make yet another successful and rewarding experience for their Career Skills’ Interns. If interested, please call Derick Hayhurst at 772-781-7855.

Photo Caption: Career Skills Mentoring Program Little Sister/Intern Rosita and Big Sister Frances Kaleta from The Children’s Services Council of Martin County.

Martin County Business Mentors: Advantage Ford of Stuart, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties, Bohen Dental, C&W Computers, Children’s Services Council of Martin County, Crown Trophy, Family Foot and Ankle, Fox, Wackeen, Dungey, Beard, Bush, Goldman, Kilbride, Waters & McCluskey, L.L.P, Gertrude Walden Childcare, Martin County Clerk of Court, Port Salerno Boys & Girls Club, Porter Law Office, Skin Serenity Spa, Stuart Jet Center, Stuart Police Department, The City Of Stuart, Treasure Coast Harley Davidson, United Way of Martin County, and YMCA of the Treasure Coast

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.

The Schmidt Family Foundation awards $25,000 to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

For Immediate Release

Contact: Aleisha Coleman

acoleman@mentorbig.org

Phone: 772-678-7487

The Schmidt Family Foundation awards $25,000 to

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

West Palm Beach, FL (June 4, 2013) – The Schmidt Foundation has recently awarded a $25,000 grant to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS). This contribution will help BBBS expand their mentoring programs for at-risk children and youth in southern Palm Beach County, providing more children with strong and enduring, professionally supported mentoring relationships that will change their lives for the better, forever.   Through these positive, one-on-one mentoring relationships, children learn to see themselves as their mentors see them: as valuable and capable individuals who, despite environmental limitations, can set goals for themselves, and experience social, academic, and personal success in their everyday lives.

“We sincerely appreciate the Schmidt Family Foundation’s support of our mentoring programs,” said William P. Bee, Jr., BBBS President and CEO. “The investment will make a tremendous impact on the lives of the children in our local community.”

“The Schmidt Family Foundation is a charitable organization dedicated to helping people help themselves.  By providing an appropriate financial catalyst, the Foundation gives individuals the means to alleviate suffering or to make the most of their given abilities, that they may make the greatest returns to society” (http://www.schmidtfamilyfoundation.org/).

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties  

BBBS provides children facing adversity ages 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. The organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County sine 1986 and in Palm Beach County since July of 2010. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies nationwide. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010, and again in 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. To find out how you can get involved, visit www.mentorbig.org.

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jcpenney and Haggar Team Up in June to Support Big Brothers Big Sisters

For Immediate Release

Contact: Aleisha Coleman

acoleman@mentorbig.org

Phone: 772-678-7487

jcpenney and Haggar Team Up in June to Support Big Brothers Big Sisters

Customers Invited to Round Up Purchases to Benefit Mentoring Youth

Palm Beach & Martin County, FL - June 3, 2013 --   Big Brothers Big Sisters, the nation’s largest donor and volunteer supported mentoring network, is joining forces with jcpenney in June for the retailer’s charitable giving program, jcp cares.  By rounding-up purchases both in-store and online at jcp.com, customers support maintaining and monitoring long-term mentoring matches to help children who face adversity in school and life.

“Our partnership with jcp cares aligns perfectly with the Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Start Something® brand message, which tells people and organizations there are many ways they can support mentoring; volunteering is just one of them,” said Charles Pierson, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America president and CEO.  “jcp cares is providing financial support and awareness that will make resources available to help our local agencies carefully match more volunteers and children and provide support needed to keep the mentoring going strong long-term.”

jcpenney stores in  Palm Beach County, Martin County and across the nation will invite customers to become friends of Big Brothers Big Sisters by rounding up purchases to the nearest dollar and donating the difference to the nationwide mentoring organization.  In addition, jcpenney will donate $1 for every $50 gift card sold in June, up to $50,000, giving Big Brothers Big Sisters an opportunity to receive additional funding.  

“We are incredibly excited to support an organization that is making such a profound impact on the lives of children educationally, socially and emotionally,” said Miki Woodard, jcp cares president and vice president of philanthropy for jcpenney.  “Additionally, we’re proud to have our long time brand partner, Haggar, by our side to fortify these efforts.”

Haggar will also support Big Brothers Big Sisters by running an in-store campaign in all jcpenney locations June 1-30.  For any pair of Haggar pants purchased, Haggar will donate $1 to Big Brothers Big Sisters, with a contribution of up to $50,000.  Customers will have the opportunity to enter for a chance to win a trip to the 2013 Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Weekend in Canton, Ohio.

“I am delighted that Haggar has joined the nationwide mentoring network as a corporate partner,” said Lynn Swann, former professional football player and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America alumnus board member and national spokesperson.  “It’s a perfect fit, as Haggar and Big Brothers Big Sisters have a shared commitment to help children, families and communities thrive.  I will always be proud to wear my Haggar NFL Hall of Fame jacket, just as I will continue to cherish the years I’ve been privileged to serve Big Brothers Big Sisters.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters will host its Reunite Now national conference in Denver, Colo. June 24-30.  On June 26, jcpenney will sponsor a special luncheon at the conference where the retailer will reveal a fashion makeover for a former “Big” and “Little,” followed by a surprise reunion of the two.  Throughout the conference week, Big Brothers Big Sisters employees will encourage Bigs, Littles, family members and friends to replace their Facebook profile picture with a special badge that displays the partnering organizations’ logos. 

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties

BBBS provides children facing adversity ages 6-17 with volunteer mentors who serve as positive role models. The organization has provided mentors to children in Martin County since 1986 and in Palm Beach County since July of 2010. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) recognized the Martin County organization in 2007 as one of the 35 best performing agencies nationwide. South Florida Business Leader Magazine ranked BBBS in 2009, 2010, and again in 2011 as one of the top 100 South Florida small businesses. To find out how you can get involved, visit www.mentorbig.org.

The 17th Annual Taste of Martin County Is Right Around The Corner!

For Immediate Release

Contact: Aleisha Coleman

acoleman@mentorbig.org

Phone: 772-678-7487

The 17^th Annual Taste of Martin County Is Right Around The Corner!

Stuart, FL (March 6, 2013)- The 17^th Annual Taste of Martin County is right around the corner! Fox, Wackeen, Dungey, Beard, Bush, Goldman, Kilbride & McCluskey, L.L.P invites you to join us at Memorial Park on April 9, 2013 for The Taste of Martin County to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties. Festivities begin at 5:00pm and continue until 8:00pm.

Martin County’s most noted restaurants are the stars of this well-established and much anticipated event! The Taste of Martin County reflects the best in culinary presentation as well as the very best of community camaraderie for a most deserving cause. Local chefs from a range of 30 or more dining establishments will prepare and serve their signature culinary delights and vie for the prestigious recognition of winning one of The Taste of Martin County’s six award categories. Come and enjoy great food, live music and a craft beer tasting!

As an extensively promoted affair, The Taste of Martin County offers participating sponsors and restaurateurs widespread visibility and recognition as important advocates are vital for the Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring programs.

Tickets are $50 per person or two for $90. Tickets will be available at the door for $60 per person. To purchase tickets or find out more about getting involved call (772)678-7487 or visiting www.TheTasteOfMartinCounty.com.

Photo Caption: Chef Daniel Clark and EZ Cooking Academy at 2012 Taste of Martin County!

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. 

Fox, Wackeen, Dungey, Beard, Bush, Goldman, Kilbride & McCluskey, L.L.P amed Signature Sponsor of The 17th Annual Taste of Martin County

For Immediate Release

Contact: Aleisha Coleman

772-678-7487

acoleman@mentorbig.org

Fox, Wackeen, Dungey, Beard, Bush, Goldman, Kilbride & McCluskey, L.L.P

Named Signature Sponsor of The 17^th Annual Taste of Martin County

Stuart, FL (February 21, 2013)- Fox, Wackeen, Dungey, Beard, Bush, Goldman, Kilbride & McCluskey, L.L.P. (Fox Wackeen Dungey) will once again be the Signature Sponsor for The Taste of Martin County, benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS). The firm has supported The Taste of Martin County for the past four years and is very dedicated to Big Brothers Big Sisters and the children they serve.  The Taste of Martin County will be hosted at Memorial Park in Stuart on April 9, 2013.

“Mentoring is very near and dear to the hearts of attorneys, because it is so important during our career development,” said Fox Wackeen Dungey partner George W. Bush. “It has been proven time and time again that the Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring model works and has demonstrable impact on the lives of participating children. Who wouldn’t support an organization with such a proven impact in our community?”

“We are proud to have Fox Wackeen Dungey supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters and The Taste of Martin County,” said BBBS President and CEO Bill Bee. “Our success is only possible with the support of community conscious businesses and leaders like George Bush and his firm.”

The Taste of Martin County showcases local restaurants, caterers, food wine and beer vendors and offers attendees a “taste” of what everyone has to offer. Restaurants compete for votes from attendees in each of the six categories: Best Soup, Best Salad, Best Appetizer, Best Entrée, Best Dessert and Best Presentation.

BBBS is still currently accepting sponsors, restaurants participants and silent auction donations. To find out more about getting involved visit www.TheTasteofMartinCounty.com or call 772-678-7487.

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.

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Big Brothers Big Sisters CEO Receives Special Recognition by The Mayor and City Commissioners of West Palm Beach

For Immediate Release

Contact: Aleisha Coleman

acoleman@mentorbig.org

Phone: 772-678-7487

Big Brothers Big Sisters CEO Receives Special Recognition by

The Mayor and City Commissioners of West Palm Beach

Stuart, FL (February 19, 2013)- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties (BBBS) President and CEO William P Bee was recognized by The Mayor and City Commissioners of West Palm Beach for his hard work and dedication to the children of West Palm Beach.  

William Bee has been a dynamic force in providing quality community services to children since he joined BBBS in 2003, returning from retirement after a long and successful career on Wall Street. While he was originally invited to assist in a short term capacity, it soon became apparent Mr. Bee was here to stay. Mr. Bee brought his ‘nose’ for business and his charm to an ailing agency, which has since thrived under his supervision. Within two years of his direction Big Brothers Big Sisters Martin County significantly improved their financials as well as their overall impact on children in the community. Mr. Bee’s contribution has been so significant that he was honored as the Top Small Sized Agency CEO in 2007 by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. In 2009 the agency was named in the top 100 small businesses in South Florida by Business Leader Magazine, due in no small part to Mr. Bee’s leadership.

Mr. Bee not only leads his agency, he also volunteers. He was matched with an autistic child in 2005 and has served as his mentor and friend for over 8 years. Mr. Bee and his “Little” meet regularly and participate in many activities together.

In late 2009 Mr. Bee’s impact and contributions yielded yet another achievement. The previous agency in the Palm Beach County territory succumbed to the recession, and Mr. Bee was charged with the responsibility of the location. The new territory is roughly ten times the size of Martin County alone, increasing the total population under his agency from 150,000 to over 1,600,000. Mr. Bee accepted this responsibility in stride and immediately began working toward serving as many children as possible.

Mr. Bee believes his success with BBBS is due to selecting the right team. “Recognize that your staff is your most valuable asset; thus, if an issue presents itself, focus on finding a solution rather than looking where to place blame,” he says. “Additionally, remain optimistic; people gravitate towards people with positive attitudes rather than those with negative perspectives. You learn from every experience, and every experience offers opportunity in some form.”

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. 

Son’s of Italy Dinner a Smashing Success

For Immediate Release

Contact: Aleisha M. Garcia

Tel. 561-727-3450

Email: agarcia@mentorbig.org

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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