Help Broward Youth Stay on the Path to Academic Success
Donations of New Backpacks and School Supplies Provide Children the Tools to Achieve

June 29, 2011 – FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – For the price of one lunch, you can help a child for an entire year. Beginning July 1, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County will be collecting new backpacks and school supplies for the children in its programs. This year marks a decade since the agency began its annual campaign. The goal is to provide 400 elementary, middle and high school children with a backpack and age-appropriate supplies.

Filled backpacks are given out at Big Brothers Big Sisters’ annual Hot Summer Cool School party, sponsored by Publix Super Markets. The event is open to children, volunteers and families enrolled in the program. As a volunteer and donor-supported organization, Big Brothers Big Sisters relies on donations and support from the community in order to achieve its vision that all children achieve success in life.

Corporate supporters of the backpack and supplies drive have included United Way of Broward County, Office Depot Foundation, Comcast and Publix Super Markets, though a majority of donations come through individuals in Broward County. Big Brothers Big Sisters encourages individuals to start up a backpack and school supply drive in their neighborhoods, offices, gyms or clubs.

“The partnerships we have formed in the community have been an outstanding vehicle for Broward residents to do their part,” said CEO Ana Cedeño. “Many donations come through one filled backpack at a time, but it adds up to a huge outpouring of support. It really is each neighbor, friend and caring citizen who collectively make all the difference.”

For more information on how you can help, call (954) 584-9990 ext. 227 or email donations@bbbsbroward.org. Start something in your community by helping a child on the path to success. For a detailed listing of supplies needed, click here.

ABOUT BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS
Big Brothers Big Sisters is the nation’s largest donor-driven, volunteer-supported organization that changes the lives of children, teens and young adults. Its foundational belief is that every child has the inherent ability to succeed and thrive. By fostering one-to-one mentoring relationships, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County increases the odds of a child academically achieving, avoiding drugs and alcohol and strengthening their family.

Most children served by Big Brothers Big Sisters are in low-income households with a single parent or have an incarcerated parent. Meaningful relationships, ongoing evaluation and professional support provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters is proven to positively impact youth and the community. Studies show that adults mentored as children through Big Brothers Big Sisters are more likely to earn a four-year college degree, take part in strong personal relationships and give back to their community. Learn how you can change a child’s life, donate or volunteer at www.bbbsbroward.org.