Mr. Speaker, the month of September is Big Brothers and Sisters month. Big Brothers and Sisters of Canada focuses on mentoring activity by matching a man with the right boy, or a woman with the right girl.
Research shows that having a big brother or sister makes a positive difference to many boys and girls. Just think about it. Young adolescents saying no to drugs and alcohol, improving their school attendance and getting along better with their families and peers. All because they had big brothers and big sisters.
This is not a dream. It is a reality. This is good news particularly at a time when about 23% of all families are led by a single parent and when many people contend that nothing works in reaching teenagers.
You can reach Big Brothers and Sisters of Canada at 1-800-263-9133.