Big Buddy celebrated the launch of our new Big Buddy Group Programme on a sunny spring day at the beautiful Puketutu Island Estate. We took the opportunity to thank some of the many Auckland based sponsors, funders, donors and supporters who have helped build Big Buddy into the organisation we are today.
It was a wonderful day of support and connection as everyone came together to celebrate the work of Big Buddy and share the excitement of our new programme of support for teenage boys. Over the course of the afternoon we heard from Big Buddy Chairman, Travis Field, Big Buddy Co-Leader Steve Sobota, from one of our Buddies Mum’s Nicki and one of our Group Programme funders Linda. We also acknowledged Steve Sobota, 20th Anniversary with Big Buddy and shared the news of our newest ambassador Raj Varma who MC’d the event.
Puketutu Island Estate has a rich history dating back to its time as the residence of Sir Henry Kelligher, a noted patron of the arts and philanthropy. The estate, meticulously restored by the Kelliher Charitable Trust in 2007, now serves as one of Auckland’s most sought-after venues. The perfect setting for an afternoon of appreciation and celebration.
We are incredibly grateful to our friends at Montana Group who graciously hosted this event, supplying the food, beverages and staffing as well as the use of this beautiful venue and gardens to Big Buddy. Thanks also to the team at Click for Hire for providing all the equipment required.
Right now there are around 8,000 boys in New Zealand without fathers in their lives. These boys are navigating the challenges of life without the steady hand of a father to guide them.
With your help, Big Buddy can continue to match young boys with good men to offer friendship, support and a good male role model to look up to.
With 130 young boys currently on our waitlist, your support today is needed more than ever.
Your donation will help build confidence and resilience in the lives of boys whose fathers are not around.