PARTNERING FOR CHANGE

“At Big Brothers Big Sisters, we are so excited by the opportunities that our new partnership with the YMCA Centre for Life will enable. Being under the same roof is such a natural fit, as together we can provide safe space for our Littles, work together to adapt to emerging social issues, and each enhance our youth programs. Sharing resources will allow us to reduce our waitlist for service and help us create more awareness of our life-changing mentoring programs. Simply put, we are better together.”

ARLENE COCULUZZI, Executive Director
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hastings & Prince Edward Counties

FUNDING PARTNERS

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

While we have always worked in partnership with other agencies, we are moving to formalize these agreements and will be welcoming four partner agencies to join us under one roof. Each of our partner organizations provide meaningful programs and positive relationships for the people that we serve, who, in many cases, live on a minimal fixed income.

Our values and missions align, and together, we will partner to create an inclusive centre, opening the door for more people in the community to become involved in one safe, accessible, centrally located facility.

Community members will access rehabilitative services, gain social interaction, work experience, life skills, and health and wellness all under one roof. We believe the synergies that these partnerships provide will allow each of us to expand our services and remove barriers that are inherent in our current facilities. Our partnership model will help eliminate redundancies and duplication of services and realize increased operating efficiencies for each partner organization.

Quinte Vitality & Social Support enhances the lives of adults with developmental challenges by providing a safe environment, meaningful programs and positive relationships, which promotes social inclusion in society. Learn more about QVSS.

Volunteer + Info HPE believes volunteerism is at the core of community and provides a space where all people have access to essential information and community services. Our partnership will see an increase in volunteers for the YMCA and the oversight of the Y’s portfolio of volunteers. Learn more about VIQ.

Big Brothers Big Sister of Hastings & Prince Edward Counties provide in-school, one-to-one, and group mentoring programs for young people. It is anticipated that Bigs and Littles will take advantage of the many programs and recreational opportunities that the YMCA offers, forging lifelong health and wellness habits. Learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Community Learning Alternatives offers skills upgrading or employment, education, apprenticeship, and independence for individuals ages 19+. Partnering with us will provide these individuals with opportunities for physical and mental health and wellness development, as well as access to volunteer opportunities at the YMCA and in the community. Learn more about Community Learning Alternatives.

“Our son Lewis has been enjoying the services at QVSS for eight years. As QVSS has grown beyond work and employment support and has expanded its existing recreation, leisure and education, it was clear that its location in the industrial park was no longer appropriate for its objectives. We were excited to hear about the possibility of QVSS partnering with the new YMCA Centre for Life and sharing space with other community partners. Our son has been fortunate to be part of a non-segregated education system that welcomed him and others with developmental disabilities. The YMCA Centre for Life will provide a similar philosophy, making this move an excellent transition for Lewis and QVSS in their journey to inclusiveness and being part of the community!”

DIANE CASEY