BBBSTT Past Events

HEROES AT THE ZOO!

A Little Hero makes a Big Difference … this tag line was developed by the Heroes Foundation (HF) to represent the essence of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Trinidad and Tobago (BBBSTT) programme, a one-to-one mentorship programme (hosted by HF). On Saturday 14 th October, 2006 the youths (Littles) and adult volunteers (Bigs) in the BBBSTT programme came out in all their glory to the Emperor Valley Zoo to put that saying into practice!

The objective of the day was fun bonding of respective matches. BBBSTT and HF is on a campaign to bring more awareness of the programme to the general public as well as to encourage adults to become more involved in the lives of our nation's youths. “We are all pointing fingers and accusing each other of not really addressing the growing problems with our youths today. People find it easy to give a financial donation when what we really need to donate is time. The BBBSTT programme is designed to match youths in need with responsible adult volunteers, which in the end helps them build a relationship providing them with a positive role model.” says Savina Ramkissoon, Executive Manager of the Heroes Foundation.

The excursion started off with a bang as all attendees were given the royal treatment by the Management and Staff of the Zoo. It was hard to pinpoint what the highlight was for the day, but after speaking to some of the youths from St. Mary's Home and Marian House they unanimously agreed that it was the feeding of the lions and tiger. The adults however were quite taken up with the ZooQuest, a question and answer scavenger hunt that took them all around the Zoo which was educational as well as entertaining. The event was a true success thanks to the kind contributions of Safeway Access and Support Systems Ltd. and Caribbean Nitrogen Company Ltd. who gave their financial support.

All the members of the BBBSTT programme and the HF volunteers ended the day on a satisfied note, looking forward to future events of this nature. BBBSTT is presently on a campaign to enroll more adults who want to become a Big and make a direct impact in the lives of our youths.

NOW THIS IS WHY WE COME TO WORK!

On Tuesday 18 th December 2007, the BBBSTT programme took the Matched Littles to Trincity Mall. It was a joy to hear their laughter, and find ourselves also enjoying “Alvin and the Chipmunks”.

We must thank Burger King for the delicious meals and HCL for our movie tickets. And certainly, thanks to the kids for reminding us why we're part of this organisation… and for running us ragged in the arcade. It was great fun!

BBBSTT INFORMATION SESSION 2008

BIG BUNCH ZOO EVENT 2008

BIG BUNCH EVENT AT GUARACARA PARK!

On November 30th 2008, The Heroes Foundation hosted a Big Bunch Event at Petrotrin Sports Club. It comprised of children and prospective adults or ‘Bigs’, and the dedicated volunteers who willingly assisted us in our venture. The event consisted of a series of entertaining activities whereby the prospective Bigs were given an opportunity to volunteer their time with prospective Littles. The ages of the children ranged from six to sixteen.

Existing Bigs from the BBBSTT programme were also present amongst the group, demonstrating their mentorship skills to those interested in becoming a Big Brother or Sister. Lyndon Pierrepoint, a current Big, was one of the main attractions at the event. Lyndon volunteered to put on display of snakes, demonstrating to others his ability to care for and love these creatures. The children were most active in this and depicted a positive attitude towards the reptiles, allowing the snakes to rest on and around their arms and necks.

In essence, the event was held in order for prospective Bigs to gain awareness of the BBBSTT programme and decide if it would meet their expectations and aspirations. Bigs who attended the event were satisfied and overwhelmed by the children’s interaction and expressed their full participation in the Big Brothers Big Sisters programme!

MEET-THE-MENTOR 2011!

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Trinidad and Tobago (BBBSTT) held its first Meet-the-Mentor Function on February 19th 2011 at Meyler House in Belmont. The Heroes Foundation team members gave a warm welcome to all those who took time out from their busy schedules to attend the function as Littles (children from various Children’s Homes) and  prospective Bigs were joined by some of our current Matches to be entertained during an afternoon packed with activities.

The Meet-the-Mentor Function is meant to give interested persons an opportunity to mingle and interact with currently Matched Big & Littles in a relaxed group setting. The applicants get a snapshot of what it might be like to be Matched with a Big or Little Brother or Sister.

Several people gave inspirational testimonies our  Big Sister Melissa Ramkissoon and Big Brother Gerren Collymore and their Littles, shared words of encouragement and highlighted the value and meaning of their relationships.

Prospective applicants were thoroughly entertained, and found the experience informative and meaningful. They especially enjoyed their time with the children whose bright smiles melted hearts.