Big shoes to be filled

By MARYANNE FIRTH AND MAGGIE RIOPELLE, TRIBUNE STAFF

June 16, 2009

After almost two decades of service as executive director, Greg Whelan will be leaving behind his position at Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Niagara.

Whelan is taking a new position as director of services for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hamilton and Burlington. He will remain at the south Niagara agency until July 31.

"I think it was time for a change, not only for me but also for the local organization," said Whelan, who has been involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters in a number of capacities as far back as the late 1970s.

"The job has changed and the demands have changed."

He said the local organization has grown by leaps and bounds over his nearly 20 years as executive director. It has done so through pport of the community, a strong board of directors who were "visionaries" and staff who were committed to matching Littles and Bigs.

"We accomplished a lot. In 2008, we increased our kids' services by 100% ... it was remarkable. I'm sure whoever comes in will certainly take it to the next level. All the best."

Whelan intends to remain living in the Rose City. He said what he will miss the most are the many "graduates" or Littles who have moved on from the program who, from time to time, would stop in to say hello. But he's excited about his new opportunity.

Whelan said the local board will likely be looking for an individual with a fundraising background, as that will become the challenges for the local organization.

The board of directors is organizing a search for his replacement.

President Mary Iannazzo said the board held a meeting last night to discuss the job description to be posted likely within the next week on the agency's website.

When Whelan announced his news at last Monday night's meeting, Iannazzo said she was "shocked and sad," but excited for the agency's future.

She called Whelan's departure a "big loss" for the agency, adding he has been "a dedicated and valuable leader."

"He's very committed, well-known ... and respected in the area," she said.

Whelan began working with Big Sisters of Welland, Port Colborne, Pelham in 1979 as a parents' group worker. He has also volunteered as a big brother over the years.

He took on the role of executive director in 1989, the position he's held to this day.

Iannazzo said Whelan "will be sorely missed by his staff and the clients of the agency both past and present."

On behalf of the agency, she said she "would like to thank (Whelan) for all of his hard work and unmatched dedication over his many years with us and wish him ccess in his new position."

W h e l a n's new position gives him "a chance to focus on what he loves," Iannazzo said, adding he's always had a passion for casework within the agency.

"It's great for him, and an opportunity for the agency to find someone new and different," she said.

Iannazzo admitted the local position may not be the easiest to fill over the next month, especially for large responsibilities that include supervising staff, fundraising and being an ambassador for the agency and the cause.

She said Whelan has agreed to help beyond his July 31 end date if need be.

Iannazzo said it would be nice to have a replacement found before Whelan leaves, so he's able to show the new executive director the ropes.

She said Whelan's contributions go beyond the local agency, as he's taken on roles with Big Brothers Big Sisters across Canada. Even this week, he's in Timmins performing an accreditation review for that city's branch.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Niagara serves between 100 and 200 children in Welland, Fonthill, Pelham, Port Colborne and Wainfleet through its various programs.

The United Way member agency facilitates mentoring friendships through its traditional match program, in-school mentoring and group programs.

For more information on Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Niagara, visit www.bbbsinniagara.ca.