Parents of children returning to school this fall are no strangers to how fast kids grow, whether mentally through advancing to the next grade or physically as the pants, sweaters, t-shirts and shoes of last year are fitting seemingly more snugly than before.
After all, it’s genuinely true what they say – they grow up so fast!
While this may be a bittersweet reality, there is a way to ensure your cherished items can help support and foster the creation of new memories for someone else.
Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver is seeking contributions to its clothing donation program to help support vital child and youth mentorship programs, providing a unique opportunity to make a difference in the community in a simple, accessible and impactful way.
Where compassion meets convenience
The dawn of a new school year is a time of renewal, prompting many parents and children alike to clean out and declutter their closets. But just because your family may no longer need these items, doesn’t mean they are no longer of use.
Despite what the organization’s name may imply, Big Brothers is open to accepting clothing donations for all ages and genders. While the focus lies predominantly on supporting mostly young boys through its various mentorship programs, the donation initiative is broad, gladly accepting clothing for adults, teens and children.
Donating has never been easier or more flexible through multiple hassle-free, accessible options.
Those interested in contributing can do so by bringing their items to one of the many already-established donation bins across Greater Vancouver or by scheduling a pick-up directly from their home.
In terms of what specific items can be donated, the organization accepts a wide range of gently used clothing, books and small household goods.
Ultimately, the primary motivation behind the back-to-school clothing donation initiative is to make a positive, community-driven impact during a pivotal time of year. By supporting Big Brothers’ programs, donors help create meaningful change in the lives of children and teens throughout Greater Vancouver.
How your donations make a difference
For those curious about where these donations go, the items collected through the bins and home pick-ups are sold to Value Village, with the funds received in this exchange reinvested into the various youth mentorship programs offered by Big Brothers.
This sustainable partnership promotes the organization’s ability to continue to sustain and expand the impact of its programs, whether through one-on-one mentoring or group programs, playing a vital role in ensuring children and youth have positive role models and the resources they need to thrive.
“Our mission is to ignite the inherent potential in every child by connecting them with a caring adult mentor,” explains Normal Galimski, marketing, communications and recruitment officer at Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver. “Through this connection, we help build strong, confident young people who can overcome life’s challenges and succeed in school and beyond.”
Examples of such initiatives include:
- Big Brothers Mentoring Program - The organization’s flagship program connects young people with volunteer mentors based on personality and personal interests, giving them someone to talk to, learn from, share experiences and build trust with over regular weekly outings.
- The In-School Mentoring program - A program designed for mentors to meet with mentees during the school day for an hour a week to engage in fun, non-academic activities.
- Game On! - A group mentoring program focused on healthy lifestyle choices through physical activities and discussions concerning balanced eating and emotional health.
- The Teen Mentor Program - A program that empowers high school students to become leaders and mentors to younger children.
- Roots Mentoring - A program that celebrates Indigenous cultures and encourages learning and dialogue between Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth, mentors and community leaders.
All programs are supported by professional caseworkers who provide training and regular check-ins to ensure a positive experience for both mentors and mentees.
“At Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver, we believe that mentoring is a powerful tool for social change,” says Galimski. “By supporting mentorship, our donors are not just cleaning out their closets — they’re making a lasting difference in the lives of young people in our community.”
To learn more about the clothing donation program and donate today, visit bigbrothersvancouver.com/clothing-donation.
