Across Canada, there are many children who grow up facing hardships such as poverty, family instability, and identity-based discrimination. These circumstances have nothing to do with the value of who they are or who they can become, but because of these situations, children and youth risk not having the opportunity to live up to their full potential.<\/p>\n
Even worse is the possibility of continuing cycles of poverty and crime or developing mental health issues. This comes at a cost to the young person, and to society.<\/p>\n
When a young person has a mentor, these risks can be reduced or even avoided.<\/p>\n
According to a 2013 research study, young people who participate in Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring programs are more likely to become productive, healthy, and engaged citizens.<\/p>\n
These young people are:<\/p>\n
\u2022 Twice as likely to stay in school, with 63% pursuing postsecondary education
\n\u2022 17% more likely to be employed, with 13% higher earnings
\n\u2022 80% likely to be leading healthy lifestyles
\n\u2022 50% more likely to volunteer – and when they do, they give 30% more of their time.<\/p>\n
When we have happy, healthy young people in our communities<\/a>, everyone benefits! That\u2019s why StorageMart is proud to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada, helping to change the lives of more than 40,000 children and young people every year through one-on-one and group mentoring programs.<\/p>\n