The Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Cornwall and District recognized its Big Brother, Big Sister, and mentor volunteers at its 36th annual banquet and awards night held on Saturday October 17th at the City Limits Spotlight Hall.

Georges Bougie, President of the local agency thanked all the volunteers who so generously give of their time and effort to developing strong, nurturing relationships with Littles who need positive role models in their lives. The success of our programs is attributed to the caring and dedication of Bigs as well as staff.  Board members were also thanked for their hard work.

Treasurer D'Arcy Grant recoginzed some of our supporters who were special invitees of the evening: Scotiabank, Value Village, Rachel's Kids and Union Gas.

Executive Director Jacquie Richards thanked all volunteers for being that someone special that a child will always remember.  Bigs were compared to stars that sparkle with knowledge and twinkle with energy, shining brightly and offering Littles a brighter future. "Shoot for the moon.  Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars".

This year's guest speaker,Brigitte Gauthier was a former Little Sister matched with Muriel Rose Middleton for 13 years. Their relationship is still thriving to this day.

Presentation of service awards to Big Brothers, Big Sisters, and mentors were a special highlight of the evening.

The 2009 Big Sister of the Year is Marian Hemingway who is matched with two Little Sisters in the Big Bunch Program for 4 years.  She is always available and is certainly irreplaceable in the eyes of her Littles.

The 2009 Big Brother of the Year is Gerry Roy who is also matched with two Little Brothers.  He is an ambassador for our agency, who donates alot of time not only to his Littles but also to agency fundraisers. 

The 2009 Honourary Big Brother/Sister of the Year is David Hill. He has been involved with the agency since 2000.  He has made outstanding contributions in various ways to the success of our agency over the past 9 years.