Are you big enough to help Littles?

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 21: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bermuda will hold its first 5k walkathon this weekend to raise money for the charity.

The walk will be on Sunday starting at Charities House at 8:30am.

Patrina O’Connor-Paynter of Big Brothers Big Sisters said: “The economic climate in Bermuda has made it really tough for charities to remain operational so we knew that this year we would have to increase our fund raising efforts.

“A walk-a-thon doesn’t require a whole lot of overhead costs for us and it is something that our Bigs and Littles can get involved in together.

“It is also something that brings members of our community together.”

Mrs O’Connor-Paynter continued: “This event is about more than just money for the organization, it is about raising awareness about our programme and the need for it in our community.  

“We are also trying to promote the importance of fitness and healthy living to our Littles.

“We provided everyone with two options: they could either make a donation of $10 or they could go out and get pledges.  

“We are very excited to see how much will be raised.

“One individual contacted the office very excited because she had raised pledges of over $200 in one day.”

The funds will be used to continue programmes and workshops put on by the charity.

Asked how many people have committed to the walk, Mrs O’Connor-Paynter said: “We have had a surprisingly good response and are looking forward to having good numbers.  

“The Crime Stoppers Bermuda racing team is also on board and is committed to our cause.  

“We are honoured that they have chosen to assist our charity in any way that they can which includes participating in our walk-a-thon.  

“We realize that not everyone can make it on Sunday but if they still wish to make a donation they can contact the office on 232-2802 or via e-mail patrina.bbbs@logic.bm.  

“Individuals are also able to make a direct deposit our account number is 006 000178 001.”

Mrs O’Connor-Paynter asked if someone choose to deposit money to please let the organisation know ahead of time and to put a note on the deposit referencing the walk.

She also said she hopes to make it an annual event for the charity.

As for what she would say to encourage people to come out, Mrs O’Connor-Paynter said: “Come on out and get some exercise while doing something charitable at the same time.

“The BBBS programme is an asset to our island and has proven that it makes a difference. We need your support in order to continue offering our services in Bermuda.”