Meet Fred! Our amazing Big Brother Community Mentor and Board Chair! “I almost fell off my chair when I heard Surrey had a three-year wait-time [for children to be matched with a Mentor],” Fred said. After getting matched with his Little Brother, Zubin, Fred's never looked back. “It’s all based-on friendship, hanging out and having a good time. It’s not like a business mentorship program where you’re asking tough questions or setting maybe like goals and stuff,” he explained. “It’s a lot more relaxed and a lot more fun.” Read more about Fred's incredible journey in becoming a Volunteer Mentor in Surrey, BC! https://www.bigbrothersvancouver.com/inspiring-stories/afghanistan-to-volunteering-in-surrey-a-mentors-journey/

Starting at the age of seven, I sold candy at a Royal City GOGOs fundraiser, an organization that supports African grandmothers caring for children orphaned by AIDS. Ten years later, as part of my commitment to the GOGOS, I am tasked with overseeing a group of student volunteers during fundraising events. This role involves recruiting volunteers, modeling and assigning tasks, setting clear expectations, and ensuring everyone works towards a common goal. I utilize effective communication, encouragement, and teamwork to ensure fundraising events run smoothly and successfully. This volunteering commitment reflects my dedication to “think global and act local” and has fostered a passion for creating opportunities for women worldwide. Knowing that in sub-Saharan Africa over 11 million children have lost one or both parents to AIDS, with many being cared for by their Gogos (Zulu for “grandmother”), inspires me to continue to support such a worthy cause.

In 2024, Beem Credit Union generously supported our Burnaby Diabetes Sports Camp, providing crucial funding that helped us supply the necessary equipment and materials for a safe and enriching camp experience. We are truly grateful for their partnership. The feedback from camp surveys was overwhelmingly positive, with 94% of participants reporting that the camp empowered them to live well with diabetes, and 80% sharing that their self-esteem had increased as a result of attending.

After years of serving hot meals to our Surrey community, we are deeply saddened to announce that our Community Meal Program will end on March 31, 2025, due to a lack of funding. We know how vital this program has been for so many, which is why we are launching a To-Go Breakfast & Lunch Program to continue feeding those in need. But we can't do it alone—we need YOUR help! How You Can Make a Difference:Each week, we need 1,000–1,400 bagged lunches to keep this program running. We’re calling on community groups, churches, schools, businesses, and organizations to help by preparing and donating bagged lunches. We are also accepting donations of: Brown lunch bags & take-out containers Bottled water & juice boxes Non-perishable snacks Ground coffee, sugar & creamer Napkins, disposable utensils & cups Donation Drop-Off: 10776 King George Blvd, Surrey BC Contact: Jennifer Veasey, Food Services Manager Email: jennifer.veasey@sumsplace.ca | 778-549-8591 Can your group commit to a weekly donation? Your support will make a life-changing impact on those who rely on us. Please share this post and tag others to help spread the word. Together, we can continue feeding our community! #SupportSurrey #EndHunger #CommunityMatters #CommunityMeals #Donate