Building & Construction Trades hike for Big Brothers Big Sisters

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Raising nearly $15,000 to benefit the Big Brothers, Big Sisters of the Ocean State (BBBOS) was a walk in the park, for the Rhode Island Building & Construction Trades Council (RIB&CTC).

For the sixth year in a row, the RIB&CTC sponsored the 2016 BIG Walk, Harvest Hike 5K Fun-Run at the Roger Williams Park Carousel in Providence to benefit BBBSOS. Nearly 300 people participated, many of whom brought their pets.

Michael F. Sabitoni, RIB&TC President, served as the Walk’s Chairperson; Mayor Jorge Elorza served as Honorary Chair, and Rhode Island AFL-CIO President, George Nee, was Master of Ceremonies. 

During the event’s opening ceremony, Sabitoni said, “Our dedicated tradesmen and women in the labor movement and the hardworking public servants who are all part of Rhode Island’s AFL-CIO know the importance of volunteering and giving back to the communities where we work and raise our families. Collectively we can make a significant impact in supporting such a vital organization like the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ocean State.”

Many big sisters and big brothers came out to walk with their ‘littles’ including Eric O’Connor and 13-year-old Giovanni.  “It is such a rewarding experience to be a big brother,” expressed O’Connor just before the Walk. “I’ve known Giovanni since he was 8-years-old and he has been a wonderful addition in my life. My little makes me feel like a big man.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ocean State serves more than 500 children in Rhode Island every year. The organization pairs children in need with a positive role model who guides them to make good decisions, do well in school, and avoid risky behaviors. Taylor Millspaugh, BBBSOS Program and Outreach Coordinator thanked everyone for their time and altruism in making the Walk a success.  

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