Keasha Maile, FEO, May 15, 2025, VOL. 6 ISSUE 18

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Niagara is asking Fort Erie residents to step up and become mentors. Thirteen local kids are already waiting for someone to spend time with, and more are expected this fall.

The organization spoke to town council on April 28 to ask for help.

“For as little as one hour a week, someone can have a life-saving impact,” said Erin Graybiel, executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) Niagara.

Graybiel shared the story of Frankie, a young boy who became very quiet and withdrawn after his sister passed away from cancer. Things started to turn around when BBBS matched him with a volunteer named Terry Lee.

“Now Frankie is smiling, playing, and able to talk about his grief,” Graybiel said. “It’s incredible to see how far he’s come.”

Mayor Wayne Redekop said mentoring is something that hits close to home for him.

“My father was a Big Brother, and it was an extremely rewarding experience,” Mayor Redekop told council.

Last year, BBBS Niagara supported over 1,000 children and youth across the region, including 57 from Fort Erie. But Graybiel expects the number of local kids in need to grow once the school year starts again.

BBBS offers various programs, from one-on-one time spent in the community or in schools to group programs.

“A little time now can make a huge difference later,” Graybiel added.

If you’re interested in becoming a mentor, visit bbbsniagara.ca to learn more.