Around $100,000 has been raised for Big Brothers Big Sisters.
The 18th annual Brockville Ribfest brought in almost the same amount of money as last year’s $129,000. Jane Fullarton is the Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Leeds and Grenville and says they are still in the process of getting all the numbers in, but it is in the $100,000 neighbourhood. She explains it’s important to have this fundraiser.
“It’s difficult to always go to area partners and say we need some funding. A lot of competition for dollars, so, we’re delighted to have the strength of the fundraiser, that ribfest is, that can provide that funding for us.”
The event ran from August ninth to the 12th this year. Fullarton says the turn-out was amazing with the park full of people.
“What I love about our ribfest event is the atmosphere at the event, it’s just so friendly. We know from the surveys that we fill out that we draw lots of visitors from outside the area, but certainly you’re going to see your neighbours and friends at the event, and it’s all smiling faces.”
The money from the event goes towards local youths. Last year, they were able to help over 1,700 kids with the money.
Fullarton notes they could not have done the event without the help of the volunteers. She adds September is Big Brothers Big Sisters month and there is a need for volunteers. Volunteers work with youth in programs that help develop life skills. Anyone interested in helping can call Big Brother Big Sisters at 613-345-0281 or visit their website here.
