Road Town, Tortola - The Big Brothers/Big Sisters Mentorship Programme is on the verge of unveiling a revamped website, which the Ministry of Health and Social Development hopes will garner additional public support for the programme.

Head of the Social Development Department’s Family and Children Services Division Mrs. Stacie Stoutt-James told the Department of Information and Public Relations she is “excitedly proud” about the pending re-launch of the Big Brothers/Big Sisters mentorship website. She also said that the time of the unveiling will soon be announced.

“In a world of ever increasing social challenges and changes, the Department must find ways to adapt while at the same time delivering a high cadre of services,” she said. Mrs. Stoutt-James added that the revamped website signals the Department’s commitment to providing information and awareness through different mediums, while garnering public support for and involvement in the programme.

“The implementation of this user friendly website will serve as a catalyst for easy enrolment via an online application form for persons desirous of participating in the programme, in addition to informing parents about the benefits of enrolment. There will also be a calendar with current and future events,” she said.

According to the senior Social Development Officer, e-cards will soon be implemented for “bigs and littles” to send to one another. “In addition, persons wishing to make financial contributions now have an opportunity to do so through the website,” noted Mrs. Stoutt-James.

The Social Development Department has also recorded its appreciation to the proprietors of the local information technology business RKG Solutions Consulting Group, for their contribution in revamping the Big Brothers/Big Sisters mentorship website.

The Big Brothers/Big Sisters Mentorship Programme was launched in 2000, as a result of the Department’s realisation of the importance of community-based mentorship for children. This programme is about fostering strong and lasting relationships between young and older persons.