Big Brothers Big Sisters organisers Rebecca, Nett and Jess are looking for a new home in Hallam or Narre Warren in the hope of expanding the mentoring program.27876 Picture: Luke Plummer
By Kelly Yates
BIG Brothers Big Sisters is looking for a new home.
The mentoring program, based on the simplicity and power of friendship, involves matching vulnerable young people aged seven to 17 with adult volunteer mentors.
The centre is hoping to find a long-term place in Hallam or Narre Warren after becom-ing homeless at the end of last year.
Big Brothers Big Sisters was formerly run by the YMCA at the Casey ARC in Narre Warren until the organisation decided to branch out independently.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Outer South East Melbourne has been set up in temporary accommodation in the Andrews Centre in Endeavour Hills.
“We are so grateful to the Andrews Centre for providing an office for us. Despite being full to the brim, with their own staff delivering a range of community services, they had no hesitation in adding us to the mix,” team leader Rebecca Wolstenholme said.
The organisation has plans to expand its services to the City of Greater Dandenong and Cardinia Shire.
It is these plans that have brought about the need for permanent headquarters in the outer south-east, according to Ms Wolstenholme.
“If anyone has spare office space or is aware of premises that would suit our purposes, we would love to hear from them,” she said.
“We have been around for three years and want the community to know we are herefor the long haul.”
Big Brothers Big Sisters is also calling for businesses to take part in the program by adopting a match and supporting someone in need.
Mentoring co-ordinator Nett Bailey said the organisation was looking for busin-esses and individuals wanting to give something back to the community.
“This is a local project that businesses can adopt without a huge financial outlay, yet the benefits for the community are enormous,” Ms Bailey said.
For details call 9700 4944 or 0425 354 845 or visit www.bbbsosem.org.au
