News & Stories

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Rows and rows of baskets lined the room, all filled with tons of goodies ranging from an inflatable kayak to fine jewelry. Live music played as educators and administrators of diverse backgrounds mingled and tasted different delicious drinks while sampling appetizers. We knew it was going to be a wonderful evening.

This fantastic event took place on May 4th, 2018, marking 30 years that the Public School Administrators Association (PSAA) has hosted the Bids for Kids fundraiser in support of the Boys & Girls Clubs Big Brothers Big Sisters of Edmonton & Area. Held at the Sawmill Banquet & Catering Centre, the evening included a live and silent auction, 50/50 raffle, door prizes and a delicious meal. This year’s event was a huge success, raising $13, 417.50! The fundraising from this event is invaluable, as it will go towards BGCBigs’ summer programming for children and youth throughout the city.

Before dinner, our Assistant Club Manager, Amanda Harry, graciously shared her personal experience of joining the Boys & Girls Clubs as a child. She talked about the struggles her parents faced, having four kids and needing to work multiple jobs to make ends meet. The Boys & Girls Club was a place that Amanda could lean on when things seemed tough. She was able to learn new skills, especially in leadership. Now that Amanda works for the organization, it all seems to have come full circle as she is able to give back to the organization that helped her grow.

After her speech, she was approached by a teacher. He had recognized her name and knew in that moment that it was the same Amanda Harry that he had taught many years ago. Amanda immediately remembered him and they reminisced to a time when she was a young grade 6 student. As the conversation progressed, we all began reflecting on the many teachers in each of our lives that have left an impact on us. Aside from our parents, teachers are often our very first mentors. They spend countless hours teaching us the basics; how to count, how to read, teamwork, and the list goes on. It became clear that we were in a room filled with mentors just like Amanda’s grade 6 teacher. Bids for Kids took on a new meaning for us. Not only is it a fundraiser for BGCBigs but it represents the ongoing support and mentorship from the amazing people at the PSAA!

Thank you to the PSAA for their continued support over the last 30 years. We are so grateful for the work that you do and the difference that you make in the lives of children.

 

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