5 Littles from the Morden/Winkler/Altona Big Brothers Big Sisters program had a chance of a lifetime courtesy of The Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Dufresne Furniture over the weekend to take part in the Dream Big Experience!

Michael Penner, Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters Morden/Winkler/Altona, says a month and a half ago he was contacted by the BBBS of Winnipeg to join in this event. Winnipeg BBBS has been involved in The Dream Big Experience for the past three years and wanted to expand the program opportunities to others in the province.

30 Littles from Winnipeg, Morden, Winkler, Altona and Portage la Prairie spent Friday night and Saturday together along with supporting Bigs, parents, staff and event participants.

“It's called 'Dream Big' and so the whole theme of the event was to try to get these kids thinking and empowering them to think that – you know – dream big! What are your dreams? What's something you want to accomplish with your life? And then go for it!” Penner explained.

Each child received a custom jersey and got to run out onto the field, through the tunnel, while others cheered them on. They spent the day playing catch and kicking footballs with players from the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and getting all their memorabilia autographed. The evening wrapped up with a movie on the jumbotron.

   
  

It was a big step for some of the children as this weekend involved a night away from home. The Littles stayed the night in one of the suits on beds supplied by Dufresne Furniture. In the morning, after a comfortable night with not much sleep from all the fun, the kids were told they could keep the bed that they had slept on.

 

The kids were thrilled about the new beds and about meeting the Blue Bomber players. The fun isn't over yet as they are invited back to the Season Home Opener July 7th to be on the 55-yard line to watch a highlight video of their experience and meet some of the players again.

Penner notes that this weekend tied in quite well with the work that BBBS is trying to promote every day with mentorship relationships. “We know that mentoring gives these kids confidence. Confidence to achieve their potential and to follow their dreams. This really affirms our message we try to instill through mentoring. It really gives a positive affirmation through other sources like the Winnipeg Blue Bombers because they are professional football players.”

 

There are still kids needing mentors listen here if you want to make a difference: