The Ontario Government recognized five volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oxford County, with a combined 70+ years of volunteer service.
The Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism held a ceremony at the Lamplighter Inn Conference Centre in London on Thursday, October 23, honouring volunteers for their dedication and contributions to organizations and their community.
Oxford MPP Ernie Hardeman, along with London West MPP Peggy Sattler and North Centre London MPP Terence Kernaghan, presented the following volunteer mentors with a certificate and service award pin on behalf of the Ontario Government: Christine Boskovic (10+ years), Dan Henry Haderlein (10 years), Martha Fraser (20+ years), Fred Freeman (20+ years) and Holly Kropf (10+ years).
“Our mentors are the heartbeat of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oxford County,” says Erica Hughes, Volunteer Recruitment & Engagement Coordinator. “Their years of dedication change lives, not only for the young people they support, but for our entire community. This recognition reflects the deep, lasting impact that mentors make every single day. We are so proud and grateful for each of these volunteers and the legacy of support they are building.”
The volunteers have dedicated their time to various mentoring programs through the Ingersoll, Tillsonburg & Area agency, as well as the Woodstock & District agency prior to the unification of the two agencies in April 2019, which is now Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oxford County.
“It was a truly special evening celebrating our volunteers and their long-standing commitment to our agency at the level they deserve. Their combined 70+ years of service represents countless moments of encouragement, growth, and belonging for young people across Oxford County. Our mentors come from many walks of life and serve in a variety of programs, yet they all share one thing; a commitment to showing up and making a difference. We are honoured to celebrate their generosity and their unwavering belief in the power and potential of youth.”
Those interested in learning more about the volunteer mentoring opportunities at BBBS Oxford can connect with Erica at 519-537-6404 or erica.hughes@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca, check out our website at https://oxford.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/volunteer/ or register for an upcoming BIGS 101 Information Session hosted on the last Tuesday of each month.
