Big Brothers Big Sisters Canada (BBBSC) and The Keg Spirit Foundation have teamed up to recognize excellence in child and youth mentoring by inviting former Big Brothers and Big Sisters to submit inspirational stories about their relationships with their Little Brothers or Little Sisters.

The mentor with the most compelling entry will be named the 2009 Great Canadian Big Big Brother or Big Sister and will be publicized, both in media and in on-line channels, to demonstrate the power of mentoring to help children and youth in need.

This month, past and current Big Brothers and Big Sisters across Canada who share their stories will also have a chance to win several $100 gift cards for use at The Keg Steakhouse & Bar. The winning entry will be awarded an expense-paid weekend trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake, including free airfare courtesy of WestJet (if required), accommodation and dinner.

The campaign is part of a broad initiative by BBBSC to reconnect with its former volunteer mentors.

Called Big Brothers Big Sisters Alumni, the program provides former "Bigs" with the opportunity to continue to experience many of the benefits of their involvement in mentoring children or youth.

"If you are a former or current Big Brother or Big Sister, we invite you to submit your story and celebrate your experience as a mentor," said Monika Paquette, BBBSC's Alumni Director.

"The work of our volunteers - past and present - is critical to helping today's children and youth in need of a mentor. By sharing their knowledge and experience, former Bigs can inspire thousands of new mentors and encourage new volunteers, who are desperately needed, to step forward."