Families all across Edmonton are in need of support — and now more than ever.

Between 2020 and 2022, the waitlist at the Boys and Girls Clubs Big Brothers Big Sisters (bgcbigs.ca) has grown by an astonishing 50%.

This is the organization that operates registered Community Clubs for children and youth after school and in the summer. Their Big Sibling program, which used to be called Big Brothers Big Sisters, connects young people between 6 and 24 with positive role models.

Since 2020, the waitlist for children and youth waiting for an in-school or community mentor has climbed from 800 to 1200. The need for volunteers is urgent.

If you have been thinking about what you can do to make your community a better place, volunteering with this group would be a fantastic direction.

There is mentorship training, online and in person, and they offer support. You won’t be left on your own.

If this interests you or if you have any questions, contact Danielle Newman (danielle.newman@bgcbigs.ca or 780-884-5921), or visit bgcbigs.ca.

The City of Edmonton has an update on the 170 Street Pedestrian Bridge project.

The bridge, located between 87 Avenue and 90 Avenue, was scheduled to open in late 2022. However, unexpected additional work is needed. The City is working with the contractor to complete this project and will continue to provide progress updates. They expect to open the bridge in 2023.

If you have any questions you can contact the project manager, Malika Ali (malika.ali@edmonton.ca).