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Balfe/Somers is a KidStart champion

Program connects caring adults with children and youth
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Pictured: Brian Balfe (L)

A Comox Valley child is being supported to participate in John Howard KidStart, thanks to Balfe/Somers Wealth Management of RBC Dominion Securities.

KidStart is operated by The John Howard Society of North Island. This volunteer-based mentoring program connects caring adults with children and youth (ages 6-18) for three hours of fun recreational activities per week.

“Mentoring is a lifelong process and an important part of life and work. John Howard KidStart is a wonderful program that supports local children in need of positive role models and makes a difference to our whole community,” said Brian Balfe, Vice-President and Investment Advisor.

Balfe/Somers Wealth Management of RBC Dominion Securities donated $1,200 to John Howard KidStart, becoming a KidStart Gold Champion sponsor for an 11-year-old boy in the program.

The boy said he really enjoys his visits with his mentor. “We laugh and make jokes together all the time. We do lots of fun things together.”

To become a John Howard KidStart Champion, donors choose from three levels of monthly sponsorship (Gold = $100/month, Silver = $50, Bronze = $25). Champions receive a profile of the child they are sponsoring (names are changed to protect privacy), annual updates, a Champion decal, and a tax receipt.

Help a local child—donate to John Howard KidStart! Become a KidStart Champion or make a one-time donation. KidStart also greatly appreciates admission passes and gift certificates from local businesses for mentor-mentee outings. More time than money? Consider volunteering as a KidStart mentor! There are 40 kids in the Comox Valley waiting for a mentor to spend time with them. To find out more, contact KidStart co-ordinator Wendy Thurlborn at 250-338-7341 wendyt@jhsni.bc.ca

Visit John Howard KidStart online at  www.jhsni.bc.ca/kidstartchampion.html