The RBC Foundation has just renewed its commitment to local children and youth with a donation of $15,000 to KidStart.
KidStart generates benefits for Campbell River families by matching kids who could use extra support with volunteer mentors. Offered by the John Howard Society of North Island (JHSNI), KidStart engages children and youth ages 6-18 in confidence-building recreational activities while they spend one-to-one time with a positive adult role model.
“KidStart fits well with the RBC Foundation’s values. We like the fact that KidStart helps so many families and JHSNI’s work touches on many different aspects of our community,” said Matthijs Bruining, RBC Branch Manager.
Peter Phillips, RBC Account Manager for Business and Commercial Markets, is a KidStart mentor. In addition to the $15,000 donation, RBC also gave $500 to KidStart this year to recognize Phillips’ volunteer contribution. If an employee volunteers for a community cause 40 or more hours per year, the bank will donate up to $500 to that charity. Wendy Richardson, JHSNI’s executive director, said the agency is delighted with RBC’s donations.
“RBC’s support helps young people in KidStart make positive choices and grow into healthy adults. We’re hearing from families that their children are experiencing improved self-esteem and coping skills, and better relationships with family members and peers since entering the program,” Richardson said.
KidStart is looking for volunteer mentors as well as donors. There are more than 75 children in Campbell River currently waiting for volunteer mentors. For more on becoming a volunteer mentor or making a donation, contact Tara Jordan at 250-286-0611 or tara@jhsni.bc.ca
Visit JHSNI at www.jhsni.bc.ca/kidstartchampion.html