Employees of Cognos will volunteer one hour per week to mentor children in need of a positive role model at R. Byrns Curry Public School. Currently over 55 children benefit from the Mentoring In School programs in over 35 Ottawa schools. Children in the program benefit from having an adult friend and develop increased self-esteem, stronger social skills and experience less absenteeism.

“Cognos believes in giving back to the community. We are pleased that our employees have initiated this partnership with the Mentoring In School Program.” says Alex Payne, National account Manager – Federal Government for Cognos. “We are extremely pleased to have Cognos and its employees join our Mentoring In School Program and look forward to providing positive role models for the children identified by R. Byrns Curry Public School.” says Lois Allen, Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa.

Complimenting the expansion of the Mentoring In School Program is the announcement of a new In School Mentoring Award. Robert Allen, manager with the Canada Revenue Agency and a Big Brothers Big Sisters donor, is sponsoring a new award for children participating in the Mentoring In School Program. Children who demonstrate increased confidence and positive social skills over the school year, can be nominated by their teacher and mentor for a cash award of $100. Five awards will be distributed annually. “I lost my father at the age of 11, however, I had the good fortune to have benefited from mentors throughout my life. This is one way I can give back to other children who may benefit from this award and provide them with an incentive to attend school, to actively participate in programs offered to them and to share their experience with others.” says Robert Allen.

“This award is a tremendous gift for the children within our mentoring programs. As a former teacher and principal, I have seen the motivational impact awards and bursaries such as this one have had and we thank Mr. Allen for his generosity.” says Cliff Foley, President Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa is a community based non-profit organization. It provides direct service to children by matching adults, youth and children in quality mentoring relationships. Volunteers, parents and guardians can choose from a variety of programs. Agency staff members are experts at reviewing volunteers and matching adults and youths with a child having similar interests. Men and women 18 years and older who are interested in sharing activities, hobbies and just want to be a friend to a Little Brother of Little Sister can visit www.bigbrothersbigsistersottawa.ca or call 247-4776 ext. 315.

The launch is scheduled for 2:00 pm at R. Byrns Curry Public School, 185 Owl Drive, Ottawa.

For information, contact: