Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of the Pembina Valley has a new face of the organization.

Jenelle Warkentin took over the role of Executive Director this summer, overseeing the youth mentoring program based out of Winkler and Altona.

Moving from another non-profit organization she says giving back to the community was an aspect that attracted her to the role.

"And also, I've had a lot of mentors in my life that shaped me to be the person that I am today," Warkentin says. "Giving the children and youth of the Pembina Valley that opportunity is very important for their development and foundation going forward in their life."

Looking ahead, she's hoping to see the mentorship programming continue to expand. BBBS recently added their Go Girls program in Carman. "I would like to keep expanding, jumping off from where Michael, the previous director, laid the foundation."

With only a few other BBBS chapters outside of Winnipeg, Warkentin says they're uniquely situated as the only organization operating in a rural setting, which brings its own challenges and opportunities.

"I'm just looking forward to making great connections for children and youth in our community, really giving them the opportunity to succeed in life."

The next fundraising event, Bike For Kids, takes place in September in Altona.