Corks ‘N Canvases

Fundraising event for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida

The annual Corks ‘N Canvases event benefited Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Northwest Florida, a non-profit organization that is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. The organization matches children age 6 through the 8th grade with caring adults in the community. These children and youth primarily come from single parent homes or homes where special circumstances come into play such as grandparents raising their grandchildren, foster parents and military families. Big Brothers Big Sisters calls their volunteers “Bigs” and their children “Littles”. In focus for the organization is the prevention and reduction of truancy, suspensions, juvenile delinquency, teen pregnancy, and gang participation. Further goals include academic improvement, improved social skills, and better relationships.

“Currently we have 20 children on our waiting list in Bay County and this list grows daily. The only way our program will reduce and/or eliminate this list completely is to have enough Big Brothers / Big Sisters wanting to serve as volunteers.” says Paula Shell, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of NW Florida. She adds “The funds raised will be used to finance enrollment process for the Littles and Bigs, extensive background screening of mentors, assessments, matching, case management support, volunteer recruitment, activities for matches… to name just a few.”

Corks ‘N Canvases is one of the main fundraisers to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida. The event, held at the Visual Arts Center in downtown Panama City, drew an avid crowd of art and wine lovers. 43 local artists donated their artwork for the silent auction, the event was sponsored by local businesses, banks, restaurants and several private individuals. Paula Shell extended thanks to all sponsors, artists and extended special recognition to honorary event chairs, Jim and Linda Warren, and the entire event committee, as well as the staff of the Visual Arts Center.