Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough is set to receive a $10,000 injection after members of 100 Women Peterborough voted the agency the winner at the giving circle’s quarterly meeting.
The decision came Tuesday night at the newly opened Peterborough Humane Society, where the 100-plus members heard five-minute pitches from three shortlisted charities: Peterborough Youth Services, the Canadian Canoe Museum and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Each group outlined how the one-time donation would strengthen local programs.
After ballots were counted, Big Brothers Big Sisters emerged as the recipient. Executive director?Zoe?King called the result “incredibly gratifying.”
“Their generosity directly empowers local youth, giving them access to mentorship, creativity and opportunity to unlock their full potential,” King said. “This kind of community support doesn’t just fund programs, it changes lives.”
Founded in 2018, 100 Women Peterborough pools $100 from every member each quarter, then directs the collective gift to a local non-profit chosen by majority vote. The model has channelled more than $250,000 into Peterborough-area organizations in just seven years.
Wendy?Hill, a founding member of the giving circle, said the latest grant underscores the group’s commitment to youth.
“For so many young people in our community, the impact of this organization can be the turning point that helps them believe in themselves and build a brighter future,” Hill said. “We’re proud to stand behind Big Brothers Big Sisters in the vital work they do.”
Organizers say 100 Women Peterborough continues to grow in size and influence, proving that collective philanthropy can deliver outsized results for local causes.
(Written by: Jordan Mercier)
