Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Plains (BBBS) is making waves in November with heartwarming initiatives. Coats for Kids saw a generous distribution of 723 items, including 191 coats, the highest since 2019, showcasing a strong community response post-COVID. Dawn Froese, the Executive Director for BBBS, shares where the uncollected winter gear goes. 

"The leftover coats are all going up to Neepawa to help the new residents there," Froese explains. "It's great that people are using us, but it's kind of sad at the same time, right? Because that means they needed to get help. I would love to work myself out of a job." 

BBBS isn't only busy with Coats for Kids. The 18th annual Chili Challenge by Meyers Norris Penny promises a delightful experience at the Herman Prior Centre this Thursday, starting at 11:00 a.m. For $10, attendees enjoy chili samples from around the community and vote for the best one of all. The proceeds from the challenge go towards supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters programs. 

Boston Pizza will join the cause on November 21st with a $10 Pizza Day. Order forms can be submitted via email, picked up, or dropped off at the office, offering a delicious way to contribute. 

"50 Stories for 50 Years" invites tales from the community, celebrating the organization's upcoming 50th anniversary. Froese notes that while the celebration isn't until next year, they want to get a jump on collecting stories. 

"Whether you've been a mentor, mentee, a big sibling, little sibling, or staff board, we'd like to hear your stories." Froese says. "You can phone or email the office, tell us your story, and we'll write it down. There is a page on our website for stories and you can just write it up there. We're open to pictures, videos and whatever you have to share."

As the busy month unfolds, Big Brothers Big Sisters continues to impact lives, emphasizing gratitude for community support.