News Release--June 16, 2008

Community Supports For At-Risk Youth: McGuinty Government Investments Helping Students Reach Their Goals

 3,000 students who are struggling or at risk of dropping out will now have access to adult role models in their schools.      A $1.5-million government investment will help Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada provide these students with in-school mentors.

Quotes

"We know that students who have caring adults in their life are better engaged and achieve better results," said Education Minister Kathleen Wynne.

"When we share a little magic with our youth, the impact lasts a lifetime," said Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada President and CEO Bruce MacDonald.

Quick Facts

For more than 90 years, the Big Brothers Big Sisters program has made a difference in the lives of young people by providing a friend where one is needed.

In Ontario, there are more than 13,000 youth being served in over 400 communities through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.

Research has shown that a connection to a caring adult is an essential part of student engagement.

The target for Ontario's graduation rate is 85 per cent. In 2006-07, the rate was 75 per cent up from 68 per cent in 2003-04.

Learn More

Contact your local agency to become a Big Brother or Big Sister.

Improving outcomes for all students is part of the government's Student Success Strategy.