Doug McCann, president of Big Brothers & Sisters of Parry Sound, said that last year's effort put the organization in the black. If this year's is anywhere near as successful, it should allow them to hire a caseworker.

1997/98 has been a year of slow restructuring for the local Big Brothers. Big Sisters became part of it last year, in addition to which there were a number of changes to the standards and structure required by the province.

They now need to take out a membership in Big Brothers of Ontario, are required to take out liability insurance, and must have a registered social worker attached to the program.

McCann will host the program. He will have some of the kids involved in the program on the show taking pledges. He expects, as last year, to speak to the mayor, the president of the Chamber of Commerce, Ernie Eves, and Andy Mitchell or spokespeople from their offices as well as surprise guests.

Money raised will come from pledges and from advertising sold to support the program. All funds raised locally go to the local chapter.

Please remember to tune in to the Radiothon on CKLP (103.5) and then to phone in your pledge on October 24th. For more information about the Radiothon or volunteering, phone the Big Brothers & Sisters office (in the CAS building next to the library) at 746-7070 or Doug McCann at 746-7858. All inquiries are welcome.