What began as a financial arrangement with Value Village a few years ago, has evolved into a great friendship explains Jacquie Richards, executive director of Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Cornwall and District. For the past couple of years now, the agency has banked on the consistent revenue they receive from one hundred percent of the donation made to Value Village by the community. “They have provided us stability, and in this day and age, this is significant,” says Richards, of their support, which last year amounted to $23,000. “The stability is huge for us to be able to grow our services.” Thanks to their partnership, she says, they were able to serve over 200 youth last year. “Significant growth.” Every donation made at the Cornwall store directly impacts our local Big Brothers and Big Sisters, whether items are sold in the store, recycled or sent to a third-world nation; BBBS gets paid for it, explains Brian MacInnis, who adds that he and his staff are very proud of the partnership they’ve developed. Beyond the financial support, management and staff of the thrift store have generously given of themselves for the cause, attending many of their fundraisers. “They see Big Brothers and Big Sisters as their charity,” says Richards. Value Village will once again be on hand to help out, this time at the annual Tim Hortons Big Brothers and Big Sisters Bowl for Kids Sake on Saturday, Feb. 6 at Olympia Bowl and Nativity Lanes (Chesterville Feb. 7), to collect donations. Whether you’re bowling or not, everyone is encouraged to clean out their closets and bring in a bag of their unwanted items, such as clothing, dishware, bedding, books or electronics, and receive a 20% off coupon for the store, says MacInnis. It’s important to remember, says Richards, that all the money stays in the community and will benefit many local children, maybe even someone you know.