Decades of Caring: The Big Sister Story

DecaTdes of Caring

At a reception given by the Honourable Pauline McGibbon, Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario, at Queen's Park, January 17, 1979, to mark the 65th anniversary of the Big Sister Association of Metropolitan Toronto The Honourable Pauline McGibbon, Mrs. R. A. Bowlby, President, and Gordon Wolfe, Executive Director of Big Sister Association - Huntley Youth Services

Decades

ofo Caring The Big Sister Story by Helen Caister Robinson

Toronto Dundurn Press 1979

© Helen Caister Robinson 1979 The author and publishers wish to acknowledge the generous assistance of the Ontario Arts Council; the Ontario Heritage Foundation, Ministry of Culture and Recreation; Wintario; and the Big Sister Association.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise (except brief passages for purposes of review) without the prior permission of Dundurn Press Limited. Design: Ron and Ron Design Consultants Dundurn Press Limited P.O. Box 245, Station F Toronto, Canada M4Y 2L5

Canadian Cataloguing in Publication Data Robinson, Helen Caister, 1899Decades of caring Includes index. ISBN 0-919670-34-2

1. Big Sister Association of Metropolitan Toronto History. 2. Girls - Societies and clubs - Ontario - Toronto. I. Title.

HV887.C22T67

362.7'06'2713541

C79-094053-1

THIS BOOK is dedicated to all Big Sisters, past and present, whose active concern for the welfare of youth has made Decades of Caring.

Author's Note In order to avoid confusion on the part of the reader it should be noted that Helen Robertson, general secretary of the Big Sister Association from 1929 to 1947, and presently an honourary member of the Helen Robertson Circle, is not Helen Caister Robinson, author of Decades of Caring. H.C.R.

Acknowledgments The author gratefully acknowledges the valuable contribution made by three Big Sister researchers, Alison Chapman, Marie Liddy and Beverley Spragge; the efficient cooperation of Joyce Gorrie, manager, and the administrative staff of Huntley Youth Services. The cooperation and assistance of members of the staff of the following organizations is acknowledged with deep appreciation— The Toronto Public Library, The John Robarts Library and Rare Book Library, The Department of the Attorney General of Ontario, The Public Archives of Ontario, The City of Toronto Archives, The Imperial Order, Daughters of the Empire, Maclean's Magazine.

Quotations Quotations used in this manuscript, unless otherwise stipulated, have been taken from Big Sister Association records. H.C.R.

Table of Contents 1. The House on Huntley Street 2. In Toronto in 1912 3. Hilda Burns 4. The new Big Sister Association 5. The Conference Club 6. 21 Carlton Street 7. Mrs. Sidney Small 8. The Scholarship Fund 9. A New Dimension-The Circles 10. A Change in Emphasis 11. The Era of Miss Helen Robertson 12. Women working together for something they believe in 13. The Advent of Mary Lugsdin 14. An Extension of Service 15. 138 Madison 16. The Thrift Shop 17. The 1960's 18. New Roles for Big Sister Volunteers 19. A Residential Treatment Centre 20. A Tribute 21. A new Director-a new Perspective 22. People helping People Notes Appendix Index

11 15 22 28 34 39 46 52 58 67 72 84 87 93 100 106 Ill 119 123 129 132 140 148 150 154

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Preface Decades of Caring — The Big Sister Story , is a record of the trials, errors and accomplishments of an organization of Toronto women who have carried a torch for youth through good years and bad from 1912 to the present time. The author has endeavoured to set out those facts which have shaped the growth of the Big Sister Association from a small group of concerned women, inspired by the emotional concept of being a Big Sister to socially deprived young persons, to the present day organization which sponsors the many faceted youth agency, Huntley Youth Services. For more than six decades members of the Association have been engaged in the promotion of the welfare of youth by giving "preventive, protective, educational and counselling assistance"1 to young people in need of such service. Although Toronto based, the youth service operated by the Big Sister Association has always been available to, and often used by young girls who have come from towns and villages throughout Ontario seeking help with growing-up problems. At the beginning of 1974 the service was expanded to include boys. The Big Sister Association of Metropolitan Toronto is affiliated with, and a member of The Big Sisters Association of Ontario, an organization comprized of some 34 groups of women in Ontario towns and cities whose common purpose is the promotion of the welfare of youth. Assuming the role of Big Sister to the younger groups, the Toronto Association offers them

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encouragement and moral support in their undertakings. The Executive Committee of the Ontario Association meets regularly with a representative of the Big Sister Association of Metropolitan Toronto in the board room at 34 Huntley Street for discussion of common problems, and ways to improve service to young people. Within a year or two of the time the Big Sister Association became an independent organization concerned women from other Ontario cities began to seek advice and assistance in setting up similar groups. Early in 1918 the President and General Secretary journeyed to Ottawa to help in the organization of a Big Sister Movement in that city. Later in the same year, women in the city of Kitchener asked the assistance of the Big Sister Association in setting up a similar movement there. Through the years increasing numbers of groups from other Ontario towns and cities have followed their example. Challenged by the caring and dedication of the Toronto organization, more and more frequently women throughout the province are becoming involved in promotion of the welfare of youth. Formed in September 1912, as a sub-committee of the Local Council of Women, the first Big Sisters were accepted into the Council as one of 65 member organizations in 1914, under the title, "Big Sister Movement." Declaring their independence in 1916, they severed their affiliation with the Local Council, but retained representation on that Board of Directors. Funds in the bank at that time amounted to $54.65. In 1977, expenditures of the Big Sister Association sponsored Huntley Youth Services, totalled more than $600,000. Because of an unwritten expectation that every active Big Sister will give of her time, energy and special skills, to the limit of her individual ability, to promote the welfare of youth, it would be impossible to name one Big Sister without mentioning all members. Therefore in Decades of Caring , no living member is mentioned by name for her particular contribution in any area of service. The exception is Mildred Warwick, who joined the Association as a charter member in 1916, and through the years has continued to actively support the cause of youth in many ways.

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In the beginning members raised the funds needed for operation of their service to girls in the only ways open to them, through donations from friends, and by hosting garden parties, teas and theatre nights. Today, the Big Sister Association sponsored youth agency, Huntley Youth Services, enjoys support from the United Community Fund of Greater Toronto, and the Ministry of Community and Social Services for the province of Ontario. In order to be assured of the continuance of good relations with the provincial government, the United Community Fund and the many donors to special projects, the Big Sister Association charges its Board of Directors and the professional staff of Huntley Youth Services with responsibility for being alert to pinpoint urgent needs, and farseeing enough to search for and identify new and effective ways of working with troubled youth. H.C.R.

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1

The House on Huntley Street One thing I know deep out of my time; youth when lighted and alive and given a sporting chance is strong for struggle and not afraid of any toils or punishments or dangers or deaths. Carl Sandburg, Always the Young Strangers

In a gray old house on Huntley Street, in downtown Toronto, the business of helping troubled young people goes on day after day. Since 1953 the building has been the property of the Big Sister Association of Metropolitan Toronto, the organization that sponsors the youth service located there. Many persons pass through its doors. Every morning, board members or other volunteers hurry in to attend to the details of policy making and administration. Teenage girls and boys enter on slow, and sometimes hesitant feet, to keep appointments with skilled counsellors in an attempt to find solutions to problems too serious to be coped with alone. During 1977, more than 2000 youths in need of help came to 34 Huntley Street, or made contact with the agency by telephone. Certain of them were, after one or two visits, referred to a service more appropriate to the solution of their particular difficulties. Others were accepted for short or long term counselling as their need directed. Some were given psychological or psychiatric assessment; some admitted to residential care. Others participated in group therapy. Several, who were students, were tutored as well by qualified volunteers in subjects with which they experienced difficulty. To many vulnerable adolescents, confused by the frightening pressures of a very large city, unable for one reason or another to seek direction from their parents, the gray house on Huntley Street is a place of comfort and reassurance. The atmosphere within the building is one of homely warmth, the decor carefully designed to relax youthful tensions. To a

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perceptive visitor it is readily apparent that those involved in its operation are caring people. Accompany a volunteer on a morning tour of the house! Pause in the office, on the main floor, while the telephone rings and a soft-spoken young woman answers the call. She listens, quietly, to a tumult of words and endeavours to reassure the caller before connecting her with the appropriate counsellor. In the waiting room a young girl, seated at a small table, stares blankly at the sandwich and coffee set out on a tray before her. She appears to be about seventeen, but the volunteer thinks she may be younger. Who can determine the exact years of an anguished teenager! Her face is pale, tense, her lips closed in a thin, tight line. She sits upright, motionless, only her eyes, in a quick upward glance, disclose the measure of her fear and disquiet, the urgency of her need for help. The volunteer speculates, as she passes the open-walled room, about the kind of problem that motivated the girl to seek assistance at Huntley House. "Sometimes a young person's private agony is so intense that she is almost beyond rescue." Across the hall from the waiting room the good smell of soup rises from a pot on the stove in the modern kitchen where a staff worker is snatching a quick lunch between appointments. In a room at the end of the corridor two young men are engaged in conversation. Are they staff members? The volunteer is uncertain. Since the beginning of 1974 a new dimension has been added to the service, she says. Both male and female professional caseworkers are on staff. Boys as well as girls are counselled. The names of several prominent business and professional men now appear on the formerly all female membership roster. At a casual glance there would seem to be few physical changes in the interior of the house. The waiting room, comfortable with well-worn sofa and chairs to lounge in, is decorated in gay colours as it has always been. A much-used record player provides background music. There are current issues of popular magazines in the rack; an amply-stocked cookie jar on a table in a corner. The makings of hot chocolate or coffee are available in the kitchen. Over the years many teenagers have found it a comforting place in which to await appointments with counsellors. There may be a few physical changes visible within the

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building, but the volunteer senses that a subtle transformation has occurred. Is it the advent of male clients and male staff? Is it the times? Did a new era begin for the service in 1974? "Perhaps," she replies, and carefully explains, "Services to young people must change with the changing times, reach out to meet new needs of youth if a high quality is to be maintained." She leads the way to the lower level where other women are assembled in the Board Room for a meeting that will relate to some facet of the business of helping troubled girls and boys. It is a place in which she and other volunteers spend many hours, a room in which any number of important decisions are made. Up three steps from the Board Room, through an open door and a closed one, there is a small craft area where a skilled volunteer and a staff member may spend an evening hour or two each week with a group of three or four girls who are learning to work with clay. Furnished with two or three tables and chairs, a small kitchenette in one corner, the room is, she says, a quiet place where certain clients may be able to ease some of their tensions while working with others to develop new skills. When the meeting in the Board Room ends, she will climb the stairs to the second floor to talk with the supervisor of volunteers about one of the girls in her craft group. The executive director and professional staff occupy offices on the second and third floors of the building. There, girls and boys between the ages of 12 and 21 meet with their respective counsellors and in halting phrases, or a rush of teenage jargon, spill out the story of their particular difficulties. The gray house on Huntley Street is easily recognizable by that spic and span, well-cared for appearance which denotes pride of ownership. Situated within a short walking distance of the Bloor Street subway, it is readily accessible to transportation. Located there, in addition to the counselling centre, are the administrative offices for the residential and other services available. As of 31 December 1977, therapeutic living accommodation offered included a group home for girls aged 15 and over; a treatment centre for girls of 11 through 15 with serious behavior problems. A co-op apartment to house four girls aged 16 to 19 in need of an experience in living with others, and a co-op for

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boys, which provides a similar living with others experience for four occupants, complement the residential service. A second co-op apartment for four boys is operated in conjunction with Central Toronto Youth Services. Until the end of December 1973 the agency was known as the Big Sister Counselling Service for adolescent girls. In January 1974, by decision of the membership the service was expanded to include counselling for boys, and the name changed to Huntley Youth Services. The service has changed more than once since the first Big Sisters began to work with young girls. The problems that beset children and adolescents seem to be more complex, more urgent now. The times have changed. The city, today, bears little resemblance to the Toronto of 1912. But while the Association membership too has necessarily changed through the years, the Big Sister purpose, promotion of the welfare of youth, remains the same in 1977 as it was in the beginning.

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2

In Toronto in 1912 .. . action, not words, is the sign of the true Big Sister. Helen P. McCormick, The Creed of the Big Sister

In 1912 Toronto was a city with a population of approximately 425,000 persons. Interesting places of recreation and entertainment, concerts at Massey Hall, good plays at the Royal Alexandra theatre were available to those who could afford them. The Diet Kitchen, at 73 Isabella Street, was a pleasant shop where a hostess might order food for a luncheon, or take a friend to afternoon tea on her cook's day off. Huyler's Candy Shop, at 130 Yonge Street, made delectable banana splits and French chocolate sundaes for the young people who patronized the soda fountain. On Saturday afternoons there were tea dances for young ladies and their escorts at the Brown Betty Tearoom on King Street east. Over at the Queen's Hotel, on Front Street, a room with bath, American plan, could be obtained for $4.00 a day, or $3.50 if bath not required. At the other end of the social scale small children were going to bed hungry because a father was out of a job, or an unstable parent had squandered the family's food allowance on liquor. Older children, in conflict with parents, were running from home. Keeping pace with the population growth, petty theft, delinquency and more serious crime was on the upswing. A young person in need of living accommodation in 1912 could obtain a room, in some areas, at a cost of $6.50 per month, or $1.55 a week, furniture, gas and electricity not included. The figure of $6.50 seemed prohibitively high, and was often beyond the means of the person seeking shelter. Wages were meagre. The sum of $4.00 a week was considered an adequate salary for girls without special skills or education, in Toronto, at the time the first Big Sister committee was set up.

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Oddly enough, it was a man, who in the beginning lit the torch the Big Sisters have carried for more than sixty years. They were, at first, a small sub-committee of one of the member societies of the Local Council of Women,1 initiated by the President of the Local Council in answer to a request for assistance from the judge of Toronto's newly-established juvenile court. From the moment the Juvenile Delinquents Act was passed into law in 1908, various religious groups were vocal in pointing out to government the need for establishment of a juvenile court in Toronto. Previously, concerned citizens had written to Members of Parliament asking that legislation be passed that would provide a special court for children under the age of 16 charged with delinquency or other offence. To these pleas the forceful Local Council of Women added vigorous pressure. Member organizations of the Council, vitally interested in social reform for women and children, had urged passage of the Act. It was logical, therefore, that when the Act came into existence in Toronto, the man appointed as judge of the new court should ask the President of the Local Council for assistance in finding a solution to a perplexing situation. The Juvenile Delinquents Act of 1908 required that offending children below the age of 16 be tried in a court separate from the adult court. All child offenders under 16 must appear before the juvenile court judge to be charged with an offence, released to the supervision of a probation officer, or if necessary referred to an agency such as the Children's Aid Society, or returned home. It was on 21 November 1911, three years after the Juvenile Delinquents Act became law, that the necessary request for proclamation of the Act in the City of Toronto was issued from the office of the Attorney-General at Ottawa. Conditions requisite to bring the Act into force, and thereby establish a juvenile court were these: 1. A proper detention home must be established for temporary confinement of children charged with delinquency. 2. An Industrial School must exist to which juvenile delinquents could be committed. 3. There must be a judge or magistrate having jurisdiction in the city in which the Juvenile Delinquents Act was to be proclaimed. 4. Remuneration for adequate staff was to be provided by municipal grant, public subscription etc.

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5. Some society, or committee must be ready and willing to act as a juvenile court committee. Details of the plan for establishment of such a court were worked out through the office of the Attorney-General for Ontario. Applications were at once invited for the position of a court commissioner or judge. From the number received, "John Edward Starr of the Town of Allandale, in the County of Simcoe" was selected "to be a commissioner with powers of a police magistrate. Further pursuant to the Juvenile Delinquents Act, 1908, the said John Edward Starr was appointed juvenile court judge and specially authorized to deal with juvenile delinquents for the City of Toronto."2 Although there had been some objection to his appointment because he was a man of the cloth, and not a member of the legal profession, (and therefore not a judge in the legal sense of the word), the Reverend Mr. Starr was well suited to the position. Throughout his varied career he had worked directly with people. His concern for the welfare of children was amply demonstrated in 1892 when he approached Sir Oliver Mowat, at that time Premier of Ontario, in an attempt to secure legislation for their better treatment. From this contact the Children's Protection Act evolved. During his university years, he studied law for a time but did not pursue a legal career. Instead, he became a student of theology, graduated and was ordained as a Methodist minister, serving congregations in Toronto, Kingston and as far west as Vancouver. Deputy sheriff of the county of Peel for five years, Children's Aid Society director and agent for some 16 months, he was very aware of the problems of youth. He was, through his experience, familiar with the rules of evidence and the general practice of the courts. In his position as judge of the juvenile court he would have the powers of a police magistrate with jurisdiction to try minor criminal cases and conduct preliminary examination of persons charged with serious crimes. His annual salary, set by the province, would be payable by the City of Toronto. Court employees would be chosen by him with the assistance of a member of the city council. Children's Aid Society agents would become probation officers. The first juvenile court in Toronto opened in April 1912. It sat at ten o'clock each morning, and on three days of the week at two in the afternoon as well, in order that Mr. Starr might dispose of the large numbers of cases awaiting his attention.

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In 1912 Toronto was feeling the effects of the Dominion government's open door policy on immigration, which populated the prairies and brought both increased industry and great prosperity to eastern cities. The Yukon gold rush of 1897-8 had attracted numbers of immigrants from England, Scotland and Ireland as well as the United States. Immigrants from Europe came after 1900 to settle as farmers in western Canada, or seek jobs in the industrial cities of Ontario. During the ten years between 1901 and 1911, Canada's population increased by more than 1,800,000 persons. In Toronto the population had almost doubled in the seven years from 1905, due in part to the fact that the northern boundary of the city was extended at that time to include Moore Park and North Toronto. East and west, new houses were appearing beyond the fringes of the city limits, while in the heart of Toronto dwellings, many of them already old, and designed for single family living, became multiple units as friends and relatives seeking to share in the prosperity of the city joined those already living there. In 1912 there was an insufficiency of adequate housing with its contingent problems. The relaxed immigration laws had encouraged many people from other countries to seek a better life in Canada, and in cities like Toronto a resultant shortage of both housing and jobs posed difficulties for the municipal authorities. Denied the security of a steady income, some parents resorted to constant strife and bickering, vented their frustration on their children. In like circumstances, unable to find work of any kind, one parent or the other disappeared, forsaking spouse and offspring. The numbers of broken homes and abondoned children increased, as did the rate of delinquency and crime. More and more often, children below the age of 16 faced court charges. When Toronto's juvenile court facility opened, all offenders below the age of 16 were transferred to Judge Starr's jurisdiction. To him, the numbers of girls and boys appearing in his court seemed appallingly large. The offences, truancy, vagrancy, incorrigibility were, when reviewed in court, often too minor to require even a short term commitment to the Industrial School.3 What was he to do with the children who would not benefit from the restrictive programmes of the school or the Girls' Home?4 In many instances, conflict with parents who were in conflict with each other was the underlying cause of the child's delinquency. To return a girl to unhappy surroundings without providing some kind of moral support or supervision would, in his opinion, result in a second offence.

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On an afternoon in June 1912, he sat in his office behind the court room, deep in thought, struggling to resolve his dilemma. The day was hot and humid. His normally rosy cheeks were flushed deep red with discomfort. Repeatedly, he mopped his brow with a limp handkerchief, rumpled the shock of white hair above it, absent-mindedly. He had read glowing reports of the apparent success of the Big Sister and Big Brother Movements instituted in the City of New York in 1908. There, a group of successful business and professional men, alarmed by the increase in petty crime among the juveniles in their city, formed a Big Brother Movement to help young male offenders. Similarly, a group of socially prominent women had initiated a Big Sister organization, each of whose members assumed responsibility for the welfare of a particular girl who had appeared before the court. Members of both organizations became involved in friendly, caring relationships with the young people whom the court judge released to their care. The plan had stirred the sympathy and imagination of the men and women involved and seemed to be working well. Could such an experiment succeed in Toronto? He remembered the active interest shown by the Local Council of Women in the establishment of the juvenile court and decided the Council would be the logical organization to approach. His wife was a member of one of the committees, as was his sister-in-law, Mrs. F.N.G. Starr, and several of their friends. If necessary, he would enlist their help. Smoothing his unruly hair, he covered it with a well-worn panama hat, reached for the black jacket that hung on a peg on the wall, and walked over to 10 Home wood Place to talk with Mrs. A.M. Huestis, president of the Local Council. Many young girls who appeared before his court were not delinquent in the real sense of the word, he assured her. What was needed in many instances was a wise, sympathetic and discreet woman who would fill the role of friend or older sister to the unfortunate girl. He hoped it would be possible to recruit a number of such women from among the Local Council members and their friends. Bright, attractive, self-assured, Florence Huestis anticipated no difficulty in interesting several philanthropic friends in the project. Because of the kind of work that would be expected of them she thought the Council's Committee on Traffic in Women and Equal Moral Standards would be the appropriate group to be involved. She would speak to the chairman about the matter

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at once. With the warning that it was summer holiday time and she and many of her friends were about to depart for their respective cottages at The Island, Lake Simcoe or Muskoka, she assured him that a Big Sister sub-committee would be set up in the autumn. The torch was lit on that warm June afternoon in 1912, and while the ladies who would be the first to carry it enjoyed a summer vacation, Mr. Starr wrote to New York for the latest information about the methods used, and the pattern followed by the Big Sister and Big Brother Movements in that city. Late in September, Mrs. Huestis organized a Big Sister subcommittee in Toronto. A member of the Equal Moral Standards Committee of the Local Council of Women was appointed secretary, "and with four volunteer helpers dealt with four cases successfully .. . ."5 In one instance a motherless child of 11 had been picked up by a police officer and charged with vagrancy because she was walking on the street alone late at night. She was released from the court to one of the first Big Sisters for "friendly guidance and companionship". The Big Sister found interesting things for the little girl to do, and when she discovered that her father did not return from his job until midnight, arranged for an aunt to stay with her until his return. Another eight-year-old child, charged also with vagrancy, had run away from home because she was afraid of her parents. An alcoholic father beat her when drunk, and an abusive stepmother missed no opportunity to punish the child of the husband she had grown to hate. On recommendation of the juvenile court judge, a foster home was found for her among friends of the Big Sister who accepted responsibility for her well-being. A third girl, pregnant at 14, and declared incorrigible by her mother, was referred to another Big Sister for "friendly intervention and supervision". When she responded with violent hostility to the volunteer's attempts to befriend her, she was deemed too deeply disturbed to be helped by anyone other than a professional counsellor. She was placed on the list of difficult cases for the attention of Hilda Burns, the social worker. These were the kinds of cases referred, in the beginning, to the four volunteers who were the first of many Big Sisters.

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For the most part, the early Big Sisters were women of independent means and good social position. They lived in spacious, well-kept homes where servants performed the everyday household tasks. Able to interest themselves in the problems of the less fortunate, they were challenged by the concept of the Big Sister-Little Sister relationship. The expenditure of personal funds for doctors' fees, hospital or other costs so often required of the Big Sister, might have discouraged a less well-to-do woman from offering her services, but was accepted by them as part of the volunteer's role. They held their business meetings in members' homes at first. Unlike to-day's association of more than five hundred women, they were a small group of personal friends who shared a common concern about the increasing incidence of juvenile delinquency within the city, and the underlying causes of it. Not in their most ambitious dreams could they, in 1912, have envisaged the scope of the many-faceted youth service sponsored by the Big Sister Association of Metropolitan Toronto in the 1970's.

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3

Hilda Burns To correct and prevent delinquency in juveniles . . . The aim and purpose of the first Big Sisters. It was Judge Starr who lit the torch the Big Sisters carried down the years, but Hilda Burns tended the flame during the first months of their struggle to promote the welfare of young girls. The four original volunteers who acted as aides to the probation officers of the juvenile court admitted, quite frankly, that while they "had achieved gratifying results with four of their eight cases, and a small measure of success1 with three others," they were unable to help an eighth girl. Her problems were too complex to be resolved without the skills and experience of a trained caseworker. At a meeting of the Local Council of Women's Committee on Laws Affecting Women, in November 1912, the convenor asked for further names of members willing to act as volunteer Big Sisters in the juvenile court. In July 1913, the Council took another step and asked Hilda Burns, a student in the Social Service Department of the University of Toronto, "to properly organize a Big Sister Movement and act as its convener".2 She accepted the challenge. Gathering together a number of her own friends, and those of her mother, at their home, 486 Jarvis Street, she was able to instil in them some of her enthusiasm for the job she envisaged. In the opinion of the ladies assembled, the prevention or correction of juvenile delinquency was an extremely worthy cause. Some months later she, and the Big Sisters she had recruited, "invited members of the Local Council of Women to a banquet in the Y.M.C.A. at which time the work of the committee was fully described."3 With the exception of some individual donations and certain token gifts from other organizations, the dollars required for the work of the Big Sisters were contributed by members and friends. Fund-raising events often took the form of drawing-

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Miss Mildred Warwick, only continuing charter member of the Big Sister Association

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room meetings. Fifty or sixty ladies assembled during an afternoon in the home of a Big Sister. At the tea hour a qualified speaker was asked to describe the need for the kind of work the Big Sisters had undertaken, Such meetings served a two-fold purpose. They provided the opportunity for friends to make a donation to the cause, and served as a recruitment device for new volunteers. Here and there through the early records appear the names of Mrs. A.E. Ames, Mrs. Harold To veil, Lady Eaton, who was one of the first Big Sisters, Lady Flavelle, Lady Kemp, Miss Mildred Warwick, and a number of others who could be depended upon to lend their homes for special meetings. As one member expressed it, "The early history of the Big Sisters parallels the exciting growth of the City of Toronto in the twentieth century, and the list of members and councillors reads like a page from Who's Who in the life of the city".4 The sudden death of Judge Starr, on 24 December 1913 left members of the Big Sister Committee with a devastating sense of loss. To whom would they turn for encouragement and advice when they found the role of volunteer a difficult and confusing one! Who would replace the kindly man who had given them direction, had always been ready to talk with groups of potential volunteers! In their opinion he had seemed to know by instinct when a girl who appeared in his court could benefit from association with a Big Sister. Under the continuing convenership of Hilda Burns, the group of volunteers who comprized the first sub-committee of the Local Council of Women's Committee on Prevention of Traffic in Women and Equal Moral Standards, became the Big Sister Movement in April 1914. The need for such an organization was becoming more apparent daily. For almost a year, Hilda Burns, the only professionally trained social worker in the organization, discharged her duties with the assistance of her volunteer Big Sisters. She attended the daily sessions of the juvenile court, visited the homes of the girls assigned to her by the judge, assessed the cases and coordinated each one with an individual volunteer. The Big Sister assigned to the case assumed responsibility for the girl's well-being, visited her home, talked with her family, and endeavoured to submit a monthly progress report to Miss Burns. Too often the report went unwritten. Frequently, the Big Sister invited the Little Sister, as she was termed, to lunch or dinner with her

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family, accompanied her to a play or concert, or on a shopping trip to purchase much needed clothing. To correct and prevent delinquency was the aim of the movement, and a Big Sister must strive to carry out that purpose in her association with the girl assigned to her. The experiment was not always successful. To lunch or dine in the comfortable home of a well-to-do member of the community, mingle with the Big Sister's family, enjoy pleasures the girl's mother could not afford to give her could be a doubtful experience. Too often a girl returned to the squalid appointments of her parents' house, to listen to the derogatory comments of less advantaged brothers and sisters. Sometimes the volunteer forgot to keep an appointment with her Little Sister, or allowed other interests to interfere, and the child lost faith in the volunteer. A new judge, Mr. Edward J. Boyd had been appointed to the position left vacant by Judge Starr's death. More and more often girls were being assigned by him to supervision by the Big Sisters. So rapidly did the number of cases increase that Hilda Burns found adequate assessment of them extremely difficult. To visit the home of each girl discharged to her care, as she was required to do, rapidly became an impossibility. To add to her responsibilities, young girls coming to the city from the smaller towns and villages to seek jobs5 often needed assistance in finding clean, safe lodgings as well as funds for food while awaiting a first pay envelope. Through the auspices of one social agency or another many of them approached the Big Sisters. Stranded, at times without work for indefinite periods, certain girls needed direction and strong moral support, as well as financial assistance, if they were to avoid involvement in the activities of houses of ill-repute. In reaching out to protect and advise these girls the Big Sisters began to offer a preventive service as well as the rehabilitative one provided to children referred from the juvenile court. In May 1914, urged by her fellow Big Sisters, Miss Burns persuaded Mrs. Bessie Kurata, a teacher in the Social Service Department of the University of Toronto, to help her. For their purpose the city was divided into two sections. Bessie Kurata became field secretary for the area east of Parliament Street while Hilda Burns continued to serve the western section. Miss Burns, in her report to the Local Council of Women for the year 1915, stated that, "Often the Big Sister is the first real

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friend she knows. Each girl is made to understand that there is someone who cares, and that often means a new horizon when things have been blackest It is not money charity that is needed so much in these cases as interest and personal attention. There is no hard and fast rule about the amount of time a Big Sister is expected to give to her case. Any time and attention she gives means, as a rule, so much gain for the child."6 Funds for the salary of Mrs. Kurata were provided for the time being by the Big Sisters, with some assistance from the Local Council of Women. Hilda Burns remained a volunteer, giving of her time, energy and skills without thought of reimbursement. An air of restlessness, a growing tension was evident in the homes of many Canadian families during the early weeks of the summer of 1914 while warmongers in Europe perfected plans for conquest of the lands they coveted. When war erupted in August, men of military age, employed or jobless, found their way to the hurriedly set up recruiting stations to join the Canadian Expeditionary Force. In Toronto, many wives and children, left to fend for themselves, existed on a sometimes uncertain soldier's allowance, supplemented by funds from such casual employment as could be found. Although the government of Ontario moved at once to appoint a committee on unemployment, and the Local Council of Women hastened to form its own committee, jobs for women, except as domestics, were few in the early weeks of the war. Mothers laboured long hours at whatever work they could find to do in order to augment the soldier husband's allowance. Often, children were left with casual or no supervision. The incidence of truancy and vagrancy increased. The role of the Big Sister became very important. The need to recruit new volunteers was urgent. In general, adolescents who appeared before the court came from homes in which poverty was a way of life. Too often the crime with which a girl was charged was truancy, vagrancy or petty theft. When the Big Sister, into whose care the girl was released from the court, visited her home she might find an entire family in need of assistance. An infant, new born to the deserted mother could be lacking the most simple layette. The young girl in whom the Big Sister was to take an interest could have been before the juvenile court on a charge of prolonged absence from school

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caused by the fact that she was without a winter coat to wear in zero weather, or a dress that was appropriate to her years. If there was little food in the house and no funds with which to purchase it, the Big Sister stocked the larder. She produced diapers and woollies for the baby, clothing for the girl to whom she was to be Big Sister, borrowing from a friend, or using garments her own children had outgrown. If unable to borrow the necessary wearing apparel, she purchased it, and food for the family as well, with funds from her own resources. To relieve the anxiety of the parent was one of several ways in which she could help her Little Sister. In 1915, one hundred and twenty-five girls were referred to the Big Sisters, but there were only eighty-seven volunteers to befriend them. The Big Sister Movement was becoming known throughout the city for the sincerity of purpose exhibited by its members in their work with girls who appeared before the juvenile court judge. Florence Huestis, reporting as president, to the annual meeting of the Local Council of Women in January 1916, said, "Our Big Sister Committee has now become a federated society, supporting itself and caring for some hundreds of younger sisters needing the kindly hand and warm heart of an older sister."7 Mrs. Huestis, poised, capable and enthusiastic, a gay hat lending charm to her animated face, had just broken a self-made rule not to belong to any one of the sixty-five member organizations of the Local Council of Women while she remained president. Convinced that the organization she had initiated as a Big Sister Committee was offering an urgently needed service to girls, she consented to become a member of their board of councillors and share her knowledge and experience with other members of the new Big Sister Association. Within the month they would formulate a constitution and bylaws, and become a completely separate organization, but with representation on the Board of the Local Council.

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4

The new Big Sister Association No votes for women until after the war. Premier Hearst thinks women too busy on war work to take time to vote. The Toronto Star, 18 March 1916 (headlines)

The Big Sisters numbered eighty-nine when they met on 29 January 1916 and agreed to become an independent association. A week later, when selecting an executive committee, they were unanimous in their opinion that Hilda Burns must continue in her leadership role and become the first president of the new association. When she demurred, saying she preferred to work with the "Little Sisters", Mrs. Franklin Johnson, newly appointed first vice-president, spoke her mind with great frankness. For Hilda Burns to refuse to accept the presidency at such a time would be "like throwing a wet blanket on the whole thing". Mrs. Huestis was equally emphatic that it would be most appropriate for Miss Burns to be the president. Reluctantly, she agreed to do so for one year, but insisted that acceptance of the office must in no way interfere with her job as field secretary in the western division of the city. Her heart was in her work with the girls, she said. When funds became available to support additional field workers she relinquished her voluntary position but continued to be an active member of the Executive Committee and Board of Councillors. Her interest in the work of the Big Sisters was in no way lessened by her marriage to Mr. S.S. Martin in 1922. She remained an active member of the association until her death in 1957. At the first meeting of members of the Executive and Board of Councillors a sub-committee was appointed to write a constitution and draw up a set of guidelines for the Association. Presented to the membership for approval on 10 February 1916, both were, after considerable discussion, adopted unanimously. The question of employment of a general secretary was

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broached, but when the treasurer announced that the Big Sister Association bank account showed a balance of $54.65, it was decided that lack of salary funds prohibited employment of further staff. It was agreed that, except for maintenance of a good relationship with her assigned Little Sister, the first priority of every member was acquisition of adequate funds for operation of the service they were committed to provide. In their respective areas Hilda Burns and Bessie Kurata were working long hours to assess the cases passed to them from the court. It would be necessary, almost immediately, to engage additional field secretaries in order to keep pace with the need. But funds for their salaries must be procured first. Under the umbrella of the Local Council of Women, the Big Sister Committee, and later the Big Sister Movement, held their meetings in members' homes, or in the sitting-room of the Girls' Friendly Society house at 88 Charles Street west. Now, the Board of Councillors of the new Association declared that as an independent organization they must have an office and a business address. The Municipal Council of the City of Toronto offered them, rent-free, an unfurnished room behind the juvenile court, in the city hall. Furniture, relegated to the attics of members' homes, was resurrected to furnish it. Although expenditures for heat and light were the responsibility of the Big Sisters, free use of a wall telephone outside the office was permitted. In a similar room, next door, members of the Big Brother Movement, an agency established through the efforts of Judge Starr also, were endeavouring to help adolescent boys who had appeared before the juvenile court judge. For a time the two organizations, as a matter of economy, shared the free telephone facility. The Big Sisters were practical women. Details of expenditures were examined meticulously. Priorities for spending were rigidly set and adhered to. At one point, when funds were low, the purchase and use of a quality of stationery less expensive than their bond letterhead was recommended for use in recording case histories. In so far as it was possible they were equally meticulous in their selection of appropriate volunteers to work with the girls released to their care from the court. Despite the fact that they were known as a non-denominational agency, during those first years the councillors insisted that field secretaries must be

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extremely careful to assign a Jewish girl to a Big Sister of similar faith, and Roman Catholic girls to Roman Catholic volunteers. Mrs. Kurata and Miss Burns were often required to find jobs for girls discharged to them from the juvenile court. Sometimes it was difficult to secure employment for such girls, and the cooperation of the Employment Bureau of the Women's Patriotic League, or the Industrial Secretary of the Y.W.C.A. had to be enlisted. In 1916 salaries of $4.00 and $4.50 a week were being paid to girls for whom Big Sisters found jobs. The average weekly cost of board and room was $2.00 for those who could not live at home. Expenses for clothing, medical and dental care must be met from the balance. Often, the Big Sisters found it necessary to provide both shoes and clothing for their Little Sisters. Driven by a lively enthusiasm to help children less fortunate than their own, they derived considerable personal satisfaction from the role of a Big Sister. Scant attention was paid to the fact that in Ontario women would not achieve the right to vote as long as the war lasted. Instead, they set about the perennial task of raising needed funds with a will. In the spring of 1916 a cake and candy sale netted them $178.00. Plans were made for a series of informational lectures to be given in the autumn. It was hoped that the meetings would serve as a means of attracting new volunteers. Invitations were sent to members of all recognized women's clubs in the city, including the Women's Liberal Club, the Women's Conservative Club and the Heliconian Club. Every Big Sister was encouraged to invite friends to attend "silver teas", drawing-room meetings, concerts and other entertainments in their respective homes as a means of raising funds. In June 1916, the treasurer's report indicated a balance in the bank of $275.00. By December it had increased to $908.00, and at the year end in February 1917, was reduced to $704.00. The earlier decision of the Board of Councillors regarding employment of a general secretary was reversed in May 1916 when it was agreed that a qualified person must be engaged at once. In four months the numbers of cases referred by the court had increased to the degree that it became imperative to relieve Hilda Burns and Bessie Kurata of some of the detail of their work. An annual salary of $600.00 was deemed a fair remunera-

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tion, and a secretary was hired. One of the duties required of her was attendance at each session of the juvenile court to receive names and details of the cases assigned to the Big Sisters by the court judge, a responsibility previously carried by Miss Burns and Mrs. Kurata. Some children were referred at the tender age of eight, ten or eleven. Often, young women in their 20's were helped. One girl, discharged from the court to the care of the Big Sisters at the age of 15 continued to be served at the age of 26. When she married for the third time, and seemed at last to be managing her life successfully, the case was closed. Usually, when any girl married, it was concluded that she had "passed into other capable care", and further supervision was unnecessary. Illegitimate pregnancies, ill health and venereal disease were common during the war years, 1914-1918. Pregnant girls who sought help from the Big Sisters were referred to a more appropriate agency. But when treatment was indicated for other illnesses, the general secretary or a field secretary contacted the proper authority and the allotted Big Sister accompanied the bewildered and frightened girl to her appointment with a suitable physician or clinic. A Big Sister's visit to a girl's home often brightened the outlook of the entire family. Occasionally, the unconsciously condescending manner of the woman assigned to help her daughter angered a mother, resentful of such patronage. In some instances the field secretary, through a tactful interview with the Big Sister, and patient counselling of the mother, was able to make both understand the importance of the Big Sister-Little Sister relationship. In other cases a mother's resentment might be so great that the Big Sister became discouraged and had to be replaced. The general secretary and field workers exercised as much care as possible in matching girls with appropriate Big Sisters, and as a rule the overall result was satisfactory. Young girls were introduced to privileges and opportunities beyond the scope of their imaginations. Horizons were broadened for many. It seemed impossible to help others. Frequently, families moved from one address to another between the time of the field worker's initial visit and that of the assigned Big Sister, and a period of several weeks might elapse before the volunteer was able to

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make contact with her Little Sister. Often a Big Sister's patience was tried severely by the fact that repeated calls had to be made because the child was absent, or the mother at work. Some parents refused to talk with the Big Sister, and the field worker was obliged to intervene. Extreme poverty and resultant ill health, an uneducated mother, mental retardation were all contributing factors to the common truancy or vagrancy charge against the girl who became the Big Sister's responsibility. Standards of accepted conduct and behavior were narrow and rigid. The "nice" girls tended to be those who went regularly to Sunday School and Bible Class, did not go out at night except with parents, and whose only social activities were those offered through their church. One mother, who worked at night, worried constantly, during her absence from home, about the wisdom of allowing two of her daughters to sleep on the porch during the summer months. The house faced toward a vacant field on the farther side of which stood a military barracks. Girls referred to Big Sisters were warned, day after day, of the evils of keeping company with soldiers, or in fact with any man not known to and approved of by parents or the field secretary. Frequently the warnings went unheeded. It was not unusual, in 1916 and 1917 for unmarried mothers to choose to keep their offspring with them rather than give them up for adoption. The assistance of the general secretary was often sought by such a girl in search of a job. If employment were found for her she would board her baby, during working hours, with some motherly woman in her neighbourhood. The average cost for this service was $3.50 per week. Salaries for men as well as women were low. In 1918, the wage for certain labourers was 40 cents an hour. A careful man who earned $15.00 a week could barely support his wife and two children. Some men gave up the struggle and deserted their families. Misunderstanding, conflict between parents and child, tensions in families in which the father was absent, and lack of funds sufficient to maintain a decent standard of living were all too often the basic causes of a child's delinquency. Children of 10, 11 and 12 years of age were appearing before the juvenile court judge on charges of vagrancy or petty theft. More and more often they were being discharged in the care of the Big Sisters. In one instance, five children between the ages of 11 and 13 were charged with the theft of coal. According to Big Sister records,

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they had, before the loss was discovered, carried off 19 tons in small amounts, concealed in their clothing or in sand pails. The Conger Coal Company estimated the value of their loss at $111.00. All five were placed on probation with the Big Sisters, while their parents were fined $1.00 as a warning to exercise more careful supervision over their offspring. The inaugural year, 1916, was a busy one for the Big Sisters. Before it ended a new general secretary had to be engaged. They were able to find a replacement at a salary of $30.00 a month, as compared to $50.00 paid to her predecessor. In addition to the course of lectures scheduled for November, a fund-raising theatre night at the Royal Alexandra theatre was a gala, blacktie affair to which Big Sisters invited their families and friends. Later in the season Lady Eaton opened her home for a successful drawing-room gathering to raise funds. Anticipating that further dollars would be needed to carry on their work, they approached the City of Toronto's Board of Control for financial assistance. In June, the Big Brothers, saddled with a sizable debt, asked the Big Sisters for help. Their reaction reflected their practicality and the shrewdness of their business sense. When the request was discussed in a meeting of the Board of Councillors of the Association, it was decided that the Big Sisters "recognized no responsibility for the debts of the Big Brother Movement". They would, however, be pleased "to offer their assistance in any endeavour of the Big Brothers in anything they may organize with a view to the liquidation of their present indebtedness". The decision taken at that time led to a rule that has been upheld through the years. In October 1941, the policy was formally spelled out. "Funds raised in the name of the Big Sister Association may be used only for the work of the agency." During that first year Big Sisters visited the children assigned to them, accompanied certain ones to hospital clinics, found board and lodging for others, helped some girls with the purchase of clothing, and gave friendly advice to many. When the Executive Committee, at Christmas time, voted a total of $5.00 to be used for the purchase of handkerchiefs for the girls known to the agency, each Big Sister added a gift of her own choosing for the girl for whom she had assumed responsibility.

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5

The Conference Club Don't patronize—you may know more about virtue, but the girl is probably a better expert on temptation. .. . from an early Big Sister brochure

The first annual meeting of the Big Sister Association was held 22 February 1917, at eight o'clock in the evening, in The Friends' Church on Maitland Street. Because of Hilda Burns' daily involvement as a field secretary, the incoming president, Mrs. Franklin Johnson, volunteered to deliver the opening address. She reported that case councils were held regularly between professional field workers and volunteers with a view to deepening the understanding and sympathy of the Big Sister for the problems of the girl to whom she had become friend. She spoke with conviction. "That our work is needed is beyond question; that there are many lonesome girls in the city who are in desperate need of a friend there is no doubt; that there is many a girl whose home surroundings are such that she needs encouragement and help is equally true. Here, the volunteer Big Sister has been of the greatest help We have a large body of workers, and without them we could not have accomplished even a small share of what we have done. Our work can only advance as more of these women offer themselves." Alert to the increasing need for the kind of service they were trying to provide, Alma Strong Johnson was very aware that cases referred from the court were often too serious to be dealt with by volunteers. By October 1917 demands made upon the three field secretaries were so many that members of the Executive Committee and Board of Councillors agreed a fourth worker must be engaged. The fact that Association funds had diminished to $184.00 did not deter them in their decision. Money was being raised, constantly, and spent as quickly as received. At an emergency meeting at Mrs. Johnson's home, several members of the Board of Councillors offered to be responsible for securing the dollars for the salary of a fourth

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field worker. One or two ladies volunteered to raise $50.00 each; others, $25.00, $15.00 or $10.00. In November the financial dilemma was solved, temporarily, when a letter was received from a young woman who offered to work as a field secretary without salary for a time. Her qualifications were adequate. On the understanding that "she would receive an allowance of $15.00 a month to cover the cost of carfare and occasional lunches" she was engaged at once. When the juvenile court was moved to new quarters in the Registry Building, at the corner of Albert and Elizabeth Streets, during 1917, the officers of the Big Sister Association petitioned the City Property Committee for space in the same building. It was, they pointed out, extremely important to the accomplishment of their purpose that they occupy rooms in close proximity to the court. Their petition granted, they settled into their new quarters. One of their first expenditures was for a much needed telephone for the general secretary. By 3 December, funds in the bank had increased to $860.00. Monthly operating costs for the agency now averaged about $150.00. With careful planning, the sum of $850.00 would cover on-going expenses for less than six months, and further funds must be raised as quickly as possible. Meanwhile, the general secretary, whose request, early in the year, for an increase in salary had been refused because the Board felt she was "somewhat lacking in cooperation", asked again that her monthly stipend of $30.00 be raised to $60.00. Her request was denied. Funds were too low to warrant consideration of a salary increment at least until after the turn of the year. The suggestion was made that each member of the Board of Councillors hold a drawing-room meeting with the dual purpose of attracting new members and raising funds. Immediately, Alma Johnson telephoned Lady Pellatt to ask if she would lend her home, Casa Loma, for the first event. While planning the programme for this and subsequent gatherings it was decided that, in spite of their refusal to increase her salary, the general secretary would be required to speak at the meetings about the aims of the Association and the need for the service offered. A new general secretary, engaged in the autumn of 1918 at a salary of $1,000. a year, was informed that the position would be permanent only if sufficient funds could be raised to pay her the amount she asked for. Since the responsibility for finding the dollars needed to carry on their service to girls rested with them, ideas and plans for fund-raising were an important topic of discussion at every

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meeting of the Board of Councillors. One successful fundraising event, that proved to be a delightful social affair as well, was a garden party held in 1918 on the grounds of Glen Stewart, the home of Mr. and Mrs. A.E. Ames on the Kingston Road. It was the largest function yet undertaken by the Big Sisters. Two thousand tickets were printed to sell at $1.00. Members of the Board of Councillors each agreed to dispose of 50. A thousand invitations were sent to friends. The Glen Stewart estate provided a perfect setting for the party on a day in June, and Mrs. Ames and her daughter, Ethel, were charming and generous hostesses. The peonies were in bloom, the roses in bud. Guests wandered about the lawns, explored the well-trimmed paths that wound among the trees and shrubs, sniffed the heady scent of blossoming syringa. During the afternoon the Highlanders' Band, engaged at a cost of $55.00, played appropriate music in an area adjacent to the rose gardens. Walter Coles and Son, caterers, provided tea, coffee, lemonade, sandwiches, cakes and water ice for 1000 people at a cost of $215.00. The price included maid service and the rental for the marquees under which the refreshment tables were placed. Attracted by the many sale features, invited guests were accompanied by friends. Supplies of home baking and candy, sewing and hand-knit socks for men were soon exhausted. The socks were a popular item. Proceeds from their sale were earmarked for a special clubhouse account, while other monies realized were used for day to day general expenses. Although the need to raise funds was a major concern of the Big Sisters they strove, constantly, to provide the best service possible for the girls they were trying to help. Toward the end of 1916 a group of active volunteers, some of whom were members of the Board of Councillors, began to meet in each other's homes to study and discuss certain aspects of the service they felt the organization should offer to Little Sisters. In their view, the urgent need for wholesome recreation, as a form of therapy for the girls known to them, was increasingly evident. While the ladies talked, their fingers were busy with scissors, needle and thread, cutting and sewing yards of flannelette into pyjamas and underwear for many of the girls referred to them. At times, the field workers attended their meetings to give members first hand information about their cases. The women were shocked to learn about a twelve-year-old child who worked from 8.30 a.m. until 10 p.m. on Saturdays, in a chain store, for the sum of $1.50. Similarly, they were astounded by the general secretary's

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report that one little girl had been assigned to her by the judge when the child's mother brought her to the juvenile court and declared she could no longer provide her with food and clothing. The group was named the Conference Club of the Big Sister Association. Their concern about the need for safe, supervised recreation for girls was reiterated at meeting after meeting of the Executive Committee. Consultations with the field workers, coupled with each member's individual experience as an active Big Sister strengthened their belief that many girls who had appeared before the court would not feel comfortable enough to participate in the recreational facilities offered by the Y.W.C.A. or the Settlement Houses. On more than one occasion girls had made an initial visit and declined to attend either programme again. While the Executive Committee perfected plans for the Christmas parties that would be given for Little Sisters at the homes of four members, the Conference Club ladies pondered the problem of how to provide wholesome recreational opportunities for the girls. At a meeting early in the new year it was agreed a strong recommendation must be made to the Board of Councillors that the Big Sisters provide an apartment or house for use as a club for Little Sisters. Ideally, it would be a place where a girl could play games with other companions, do her homework, read, learn to sew, and if destitute, spend the night. The Councillors approved the idea in principle. In a clubhouse setting wholesome recreational programmes could be planned. The building would also provide a permanent place of meeting for the Executive Committee and Board of Councillors as well as the Conference Club. The Social Service Exchange, where they were forced to pay 50 cents for the use of the electricity, had not proved to be an entirely satisfactory meeting place for committees. Gatherings in members' homes, with afternoon tea served at the close of the business session were more harmonious. But everyone agreed that the drawingroom in a clubhouse would be an ideal morning or afternoon meeting place for all groups since the girls would participate only in evening programmes. The President voiced the question uppermost in everyone's mind. How much would the project cost? How could they finance such an undertaking when they rarely had funds in the bank to pay general expenses for more than a few months at any time? Demands were being made, constantly, both on Association funds and the resources of individual Big Sisters. When a girl or

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her family were unable to pay the cost of medical or dental care, and no other source of income was available, everyone knew the Big Sister paid the bill from her own purse, or collected the amount from fellow members of the Board. When the President announced that an additional caseworker must be employed as soon as the funds for her salary could be found, it was decided that it would be impossible to raise sufficient extra dollars to open a club house. Conference Club members were disappointed but not discouraged. In spite of the decision of the Board of Councillors they were determined to provide some form of recreational facility for Little Sisters. In addition to their other responsibilities, the Executive Committee in 1918, developed the following statement of the reforms for which the Big Sisters would press in order to improve the quality of life of the young people known to them. THE BIG SISTER PLATFORM, 1918 Good housing Supervised boarding homes where girls can get comfortable and cheerful bedrooms, and where there would be accommodation in which to entertain friends other than in their bedrooms. A living wage for girls Shorter working hours Teaching of sex hygiene in the schools Raising school leaving age to 16, with part time study up to the age of 18 and over. Vocational training and vocational guidance.

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6

21 Carlton Street Work that tends to protect young girls from evil influences and wrong-doing is a thousand times more valuable and less expensive an asset than measures that are made necessary afterward in an effort to piece together the shattered bits of wrecked lives. . .. from an unsigned article, "The Big Sister Association and the new Girls' Club, Woman's Century, February 1919

The Girls' Club at 21 Carlton Street was the Big Sister Association's first extension of service. Formally opened on Saturday, 16 December 1918, the club's facilities were available to the girls on the following Monday. In less than a year from the time the idea was approved in principle by the Board of Councillors, the clubhouse, sponsored by the determined women of the Big Sister Conference Club, was in operation. Frustrated by the less than positive decision of the Board, the Conference Club chairman, Mrs. E.M. Byrne, spoke emphatically to members in February. If they felt strongly enough about the need for a clubhouse they would have to raise the funds to finance it. Could they do it? After lengthy discussion around the number of dollars that would be needed the decision was unanimous that they must somehow find the necessary funds. At the close of the meeting Mrs. Byrne telephoned Mrs. Sidney Small, new president of the Association, to announce the Conference Club's decision to be responsible for raising the sum of $3,000.00 a year for three years to equip and maintain a recreational facility which, they believed, was a necessary adjunct to the Big Sister service. Their members were convinced that something drastic must be done to offset the influence of unsupervised dance halls where far too many girls went to find doubtful forms of amusement, she said. A place where wholesome recreation could be provided in safe, pleasant surroundings, was the alternative they must be prepared to offer Little Sisters. She was emphatic in her insistence that funds for the new club must be administered by the Conference Club. Mrs. Small agreed.

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Plans for fund raising included a request to the City of Toronto for a grant of $2,000.00. Each of the regents of the forty existing chapters of the Imperial Order of Daughters of the Empire was invited to make a donation of $10.00, and a member of their national organization was offered a seat on the Board of Councillors. In order to stimulate interest in the project, monthly drawing-room meetings were scheduled at homes of Big Sisters. Lady Baillie offered her house for the first of these gatherings. An entertainment for children, at Massey Hall, was expected to provide additional dollars. An appeal for financial assistance was made to a number of business and professional men. At a meeting of the Board of Councillors in April Mrs. Byrne was able to announce that the campaign was under way. $500.00 had already been raised. An additional $300.00 was realized through a silver tea and sale of home baking at the Jarvis Street home of Mrs. C.D. Massey.1 In June, receipts of some $2,000.00 were added to the growing fund. In their efforts to raise the needed dollars, members of the Conference Club meticulously explored every avenue open to them. While several Big Sisters told the clubhouse story at meetings of various women's groups throughout the spring and summer of 1918, Lady Flavelle, Lady Eaton and other women stressed the need to find suitable premises as quickly as possible. By the end of September the dollars collected enabled the Executive Committee to authorize a three year lease on a house at 21 Carlton Street, at a rental of $70.00 a month. Although not all of the proposed $9,000.00 had been received, there were sufficient funds in the clubhouse account for immediate needs. After spending the sum of $800.00 on furnishings, $180.00 for coal, $70.00 for rent and $95.00 for the first month's wages of a matron and maid, an amount of $1,800.00 remained in the account. It was estimated that this sum would cover the cost of operation of the house for eight months. The Executive Committee and the Conference Club ladies assembled for luncheon in the new clubhouse on the 6 December, as guests of Mrs. Small. At the meeting which followed, Mrs. Small's announcement that the number of active Big Sister volunteers had been reduced to 49 went almost unnoticed. For the moment everyone's attention was focussed on finalization of the plans for the opening of the club. When Hilda Burns, recently returned from England, agreed to become director of clubhouse activities, she was greeted enthusiastically by her fellow members.

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Ten days later, when Big Sisters and their friends, representatives from other social agencies, and business and professional men who had made financial contributions to the fund attended the formal opening of 21 Carlton Street the Conference Club ladies felt justly proud of their achievement. In an article which appeared in the 1 March, 1920 issue of Maclean's magazine, entitled, "The Big Sister Movement", journalist Ethel Chapman described the project in these words: The clubhouse is a large, substantial old residence with hardwood floors and fireplaces in five of the rooms— Since the Big Sisters took it over it has been most attractively furnished and decorated, simply enough of course, but with rather a luxurious touch in the way of oriental patterned rugs, solid oak and leather, rattan and chintz. There is a quality in everything that gives a dignity and tone to the place. What the club life means to the girls can be appreciated only by actually seeing them enjoy it, but the weekly programme as outlined by the superintendent . . . gives some idea. "The club rooms are open every evening," she said. "But we try not to make the place institutional by having a rigid programme. We want it to be a place where you don't have to do anything you don't want to do. On Monday evenings a teacher of expression is teaching the girls a play On Tuesday evenings we have a dancing class for girls who have not learned to dance. Wednesday is gymnasium night. We are working up a basketball team Thursday night is an odd night, kept for rehearsals, parties etc. On Friday night we have a social dance to which the girls may bring their boy friends. They dance from eight till eleven and you would not find more proper dancing anywhere in the city. Saturday is a quiet evening, but we have them all back again on Sunday. I think it is perhaps our most worth while day of all. A number of our girls live in rooms and go out for their meals, and there are few tea rooms open on Sunday. We have Sunday afternoon tea to which they can again invite their men friends. A number of boys who have been here before phone on their own account to ask if they may come. Sometimes we have about 1000. About seven o'clock most of them go off to church but after church they flock back again. Usually we have singing . . . and from 9.30 to 10 we have a story hour, reading a chapter or two from some book which is interesting enough to bring them back eager for more the next week. At first the men didn't want a story hour .. . now we

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usually have more men than girls and they are excellent listeners. On a sunny side of the house upstairs is a little bedroom which they call the emergency room. The Big Sisters have not forgotten that while the hospital is open for cases of real illness a girl without a home might be up against a serious problem if she should be discharged from the hospital without any place to go and not quite strong enough to tramp the streets hunting a place. She would always be taken in at the Girls' Club. It is recorded that this room was rarely vacant on any night. The Big Sisters acquired a piece of property at the rear of 21 Carlton Street in order to provide tennis courts during the summer months, and a skating rink in winter for the girls who participated in the club activities. Many girls were regular attendants, and formed lasting friendships with others. A few lost interest after a time, admitting frankly to a preference for the public dance halls, and the company of young men who possessed or were able to borrow automobiles. Although concerned, the Board of Councillors agreed that on the whole the programme was a good one. In order to obtain first hand knowledge of the day-to-day plans for recreation and entertainment one of the Conference Club members lived in for a week. Upon her recommendation rooms were acquired in a nearby church basement where children too young to enjoy the club activities might participate in a supervised programme on Sunday afternoons. Girls who became regular members of the club chose to pay a small fee which was used to purchase some particular piece of furniture, or necessary recreation equipment. Often, the money was used to help a girl who was without funds. During that first winter the clubhouse schedule was an extremely busy one. Big Sister Committees held their luncheon or tea meetings there, and at the close of the day girls came from school or jobs or home to participate in the programme offered. In the course of one week in April 1919, 78 older girls and 19 younger ones engaged in one or more activity planned for them. When certain Toronto newspapers gave the clubhouse and its programme some adverse publicity in the spring of 1919, members of the Conference Club were quick to recommend that the

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Executive Committee act to prevent further undesirable news items. Upon investigation it was learned that the newspaper reports were based on fact. A certain rowdyism had developed among several of the young men who attended the Friday evening parties at the Girls' Club. Had the matron, and the volunteers on duty been too lax in their supervision? Should the special programmes for girls and their male friends be cancelled? Something must be done! Plagued by questions to which she had no answers, Mrs. Byrne resigned in April, and the feeling began to be expressed that perhaps the Conference Club had outlived its usefulness. The group disbanded on I May, and operation of the Girls' Club was assumed by the Board of Councillors. The women who had made the experiment possible were organized into three groups of Big Sisters under the leadership of three volunteer district conveners appointed to the Executive Committee. 2 The areas served by the Big Sisters had been newly reorganized. The eastern district comprized all territory east of Yonge Street. The central section was that area between Yonge and Bathurst Street. The remaining territory west of Bathurst Street became the western district. With the expansion of the boundaries of the areas, the need for better coordination of the direct service given to Little Sisters and the recreational programme offered through the Girls' Club was evident. Members of the Board of Councillors and the disbanding Conference Club were in agreement that management of the clubhouse should be linked directly to the Board, although funds for maintenance of 21 Carlton Street would remain in an account separate from the general fund. Convinced that they must provide an ongoing substitute for the dubious pleasures of the city, the Big Sisters decided to open a summer camp for members of the Girls' Club. In June 1920 a house situated on fifty acres of farm land, at Newcastle, Ontario, was secured. When ready for occupancy, the camp was named the Copper Beach Club. Open to Girls' Club members only, at first, its facilities were later made available to any girl, known to Big Sisters, who needed a holiday. Two hundred and fifty children, in groups of 20, enjoyed a vacation at the Newcastle camp during the summer months of 1920. The cost of a girl's board was $5.00 a week. Girls able to pay for their holiday did so, but it was agreed by the Board of Councillors that no girl would be denied a vacation because of lack of funds.

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The young people who were members and participated regularly in the recreational activities at 21 Carlton Street derived considerable enjoyment from the hours spent there, and were often more than generous in their desire to share their good fortune with others. In December 1920 they contributed sufficient funds from their slim resources to provide gifts and the food for a Christmas dinner for a family of twelve. Non-members took advantage of the programme offered also, sometimes returning week after week until attracted to more glamorous entertainment. Monthly attendance varied between 400 and 1000 persons. Eventually, Hilda Burns, as director of clubhouse activities, found it necessary to report that the continued large attendance more than taxed the clubhouse facilities. Only a small fraction of girls within the city who needed the kind of assistance Big Sisters offered were being adequately served by the programme of the Girls' Club. While special Christmas dinners planned for girls who lived away from their homes, New Year's Day Open House, the skating parties on the rink behind the clubhouse, Sunday teas for girls and their young men gave pleasure to the participants, too many others were less fortunate. Could the Big Sisters reconcile expenditure of such a large portion of their funds on a recreational programme when additional caseworkers should be engaged to deal with the serious problems of many girls who were being referred to the agency, she asked. The importance of the service offered through 21 Carlton Street was assessed at a special meeting of the Board of Councillors. Reluctantly, members decided that both their funds and energies should be concentrated on a programme of direct counselling by professional staff, with continuing friendly supervision of the girls by their allotted Big Sisters. The three-year lease on 21 Carlton Street expired in November 1921 and was not renewed, although Big Sisters continued to hold meetings there until the end of March 1922. When the Young Women's Christian Association acquired the property the clubhouse and recreational activities were carried on, and girls counselled by Big Sister Association staff were encouraged to participate in the programmes. In a letter to a Little Sister, under date of 3 August, 1923, the general secretary of the Association wrote "I want to tell you about a club called the Steadfast Club, which meets every Mon-

45

day evening at the Y.W.C.A. at 21 Carlton Street, at least it will meet there during the winter, but just now it meets at Centre Island. The girls, who are from 14 to 16 go across to The Island to the Y.W.C.A. cottage there and have a picnic supper which costs them 15 cents, then play games for a while and come back to the city at nine o'clock. There is a fee of something like five cents a week, and so while the club meets at The Island your evening's fun will cost about 30 cents." If a girl was unable to afford the modest cost of a picnic at The Island, or other simple pleasures, the Big Sisters provided her with sufficient money for the outing, although funds were very often in short supply. When the Association moved to larger offices in the Registry Building in 1921 its operating costs increased. By 1923 the Executive was examining the budget very carefully to determine how it could provide more counselling for a larger number of girls. The Copper Beach Club camp, auxiliary project of the Girls' Club was closed in August, and the funds budgeted for its operation were utilized for casework service. The Board agreed that as a supplement to the counselling service it had outlived its usefulness. The following year the Big Sisters were able to place girls in need of a holiday in camps operated by other agencies at a considerable decrease in cost.

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7

Mrs. Sidney Small Some day society will realize the unwisdom and folly of allowing any children to be born and bred in conditions of poverty, ignorance and preventable disease. In the meantime it is our privilege and duty to help adjust these little starved lives to a fuller measure of health and happiness which should have been their heritage, and which has been denied them. . . . from Mrs. Sidney Small's address to the annual meeting of the Big Sister Association, 1920

Although one of the conditions requisite to bringing the Juvenile Delinquents Act into force in Toronto was establishment of a proper detention home for temporary confinement of children charged with delinquency, no adequate facility had been provided. In the early days of the existence of the juvenile court children charged with a minor offence could, upon appearance before the judge, be placed on probation, or referred to the Big Sisters. Where the charge was more serious: assault, incorrigibility, major theft or other crime, a young person might be detained, temporarily, in an inadequate facility known as The Shelter, while awaiting sentence to an Industrial School or other restrictive facility. Regarded as a number one need by the Big Sisters in 1918, a new detention home was pressed for diligently by the new president, Mrs. Sidney Small. In January 1920, in their continuing appeal for provision of an adequate place of detention, the Big Sisters organized a luncheon for some 270 members and friends at the King Edward Hotel. Among them were the mayor and members of the Board of Control who heard an address on the advantages to be gained by provision of proper detention facilities. When plans for a permanent home were finally set in motion in December 1920, following the decision of the municipal council to allot the sum of $200,000.00 toward the cost of a building, the Big Sisters expressed their satisfaction. But at some point in the planning stage, the project was halted. Impatient with the pro-

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longed delay, the Big Sisters, two years later, again pressed for suitable provision for temporary confinement of girls and boys. At last, in 1923 a new detention home was opened on Jarvis Street. Mrs. Small's concern for the plight of children referred to the Big Sisters from the juvenile court, and the need to change the social conditions that contributed to juvenile delinquency was expressed through the leadership she gave to the Big Sister Association. Governments, both municipal and provincial, were urged to undertake reforms that would be beneficial to the welfare of children and adolescents. Conscious of the deplorable housing conditions that existed in certain areas of the city, a delegation of Big Sisters appeared before members of the Toronto Housing Commission in January 1919 to protest the situation and demand action toward improvement. At about the same time a petition was sent to the provincial government asking for stricter supervision of motion picture films shown to children. Professionally trained field secretaries, working in their respective areas, often discovered that children were being exploited by mothers who, in order to pay the rent and place food on the family table, sought work permits for their daughters at the age of 12 or 13, although the legally designated age was 14. Sometimes, children as young as 11 became nursemaids. It was a time when many parents expected to receive a girl's weekly pay envelope intact, its contents to be added to the financial resources of the household. The amount of the pittance meted out to their daughter for daily expenses was often a cause of friction between mother and child. Conflict, because of the girl's late hours, undesirable girl or boy friends, sometimes ended only when the daughter, in desperation, left her parental home to seek shelter in more congenial, if not always desirable surroundings. The war had ended. Youth was feeling a new independence. It was a time when adolescents were beginning to rebel against too rigid parental discipline, and often too harsh punishment for fancied wrongdoing. It was a time, also, when brothers and sisters, if orphaned, or deserted by parents, could be separated, ruthlessly. One child in a family of several children might be accepted by a relative, and

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the others placed with the Children's Aid Society for adoption. In such instances a child was almost certain to lose all contact with brothers and sisters. The conscientious volunteer could become deeply involved in the family life of the girl assigned to her. Mother, father or grandmother often sought her advice or assistance in relation to the behavior of the girl in whom she had agreed to become interested. Occasionally, the Big Sister was able to suggest the girl's placement, as a domestic, in the home of a friend. When this occurred the volunteer made every effort to see that the girl received the wage her experience, or lack of it, should command. The welfare of the girl was the woman's first consideration. She was not always able to control the conditions under which a girl worked—the long hours, the sometimes unreasonable demands made upon her. In certain cases, the Big Sisters who took Little Sisters into their homes may have been equally at fault in their expectation of the service to be given for the wages received. In the minds of many well-to-do women the advantages of a "good home" compensated for the low wage offered. One of the disadvantages suffered by an employer, on the other hand, was dissatisfaction with the girl's social habits, her late hours, boy friends, and frequently her disappearance without notice. Girls placed by Big Sisters were usually employed as domestics by women of means who felt some responsibility for their welfare and morals. The going rate in 1919 for a girl for live-in domestic service was about $12.00 a month. But the advantages to be gained by acceptance of a position as a domestic were several. If the Little Sister exhibited a talent for it she might receive piano or singing lessons from the mistress, or instruction in the art of dressmaking and fine needlework. There were disadvantages too, both to the girl and her employer. Unpleasant scenes occurred if articles of clothing or jewellry could not be found, and the Little Sister was accused of theft. In one instance, a 13-year-old girl "borrowed" three diamond rings from her employer's jewel case and took them home to show "the pretty stones" to her family. Before she could return them the theft was discovered and the police were called. Tears rolled down the girl's cheeks as she declared, vehemently, that she had not meant to steal the rings. The discerning officer who listened to her story did not charge her. Twelve dollars a month was not considered a particularly low wage by the employer for a girl who lived in, with everything included except personal articles and clothing to wear on her day off. The fact that demands for service could be

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made on the girl from the time she arose in the morning until bedtime seemed irrelevent to many women. Although a number of girls were placed as domestics, the Big Sisters found jobs for others in factories, restaurants and shops. While the majority of cases processed were passed to the Big Sisters from the juvenile court, there were referrals also by other agencies, school principals and the employment offices of large business establishments such as the Robert Simpson Company, T. Eaton Company and the Bell Telephone Company. As the numbers of referrals increased the need for added funds became more pressing. Invited in December 1918 to become a member of the Federation for Community Service, the Big Sister Association councillors carefully weighed the advantages to be gained through such membership. Newly organized in Toronto in 1918, the Federation was a forerunner of the present day United Community Fund of Greater Toronto. Designed as a cooperative organization of citizens and welfare agencies, its purpose was to raise funds for the operating expenses of the social, welfare and health services affiliated with it. Concerned individuals who voluntarily canvassed each year for funds for several agencies were invited to participate in one annual campaign only. In January 1919, the Big Sisters made formal application for membership in the Federation. Aware that funds from this source would cover their budget for not more than five or six months, they were, nevertheless, agreed that certain advantages were to be gained through membership. They would support the Federation's fund-raising campaign by door-to-door canvassing. But of necessity they would continue to raise funds for their work by whatever means were deemed appropriate by the Federation officers. Total cash in the bank amounted to $1,400.00. There were 507 cases on file, in January 1919. It was calculated that in 1918-1919 at least 12 percent of the new cases accepted by the agency were mental defectives. Often, one or both parents were considered to be retarded also, and at 15, 16 or 17 years of age their daughters, whether in or out of wedlock, produced offspring that might add to the growing numbers of feeble-minded persons. Early records indicate that the Big Sisters looked upon mental retardation as a tremendous handicap to the effectiveness of the service they offered. When the professional staff of the Association expressed continued

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frustration at the lack of action taken by the government, they received the wholehearted support of the membership. A delegation of volunteers approached the appropriate provincial department with the following resolution: "Whereas the experience of the Big Sister Association has proved to them the dangerous menace to society of the feebleminded which hampers the efficiency of their organization and injures their constructive work with normal girls, be it therefore resolved that this Association deeply deplores the long delay on the part of the provincial government in dealing with the feeble-minded, and urges legislative action at the earliest possible moment during the coming session." No action was taken. In further pursuit of their social reforms, the Big Sisters became involved in the organization of a Friendly Street Patrol project shortly after Mrs. Small became president. The Advisory Committee of Military District Number Two requested the Dominion Council of the Y.W.C.A. to set up "a friendly street patrol for the protection of young women". It was hoped that when the Protective Bureau became fully operational the numbers of assaults and rapes would be lessened considerably. The local Y.W.C.A. was asked to organize a patrol in Toronto. When representatives of interested agencies met to form a committee that would plan the structure of the bureau, a member of the Big Sister Executive Committee was chosen as chairman. Because of the character of the work done by the professional staff of the agency, their general secretary was asked to carry out the plans and be responsible for operation of the bureau until such time as she could train someone to become a permanent manager. The planning committee felt that "she was best fitted to do so". Comprized of a group of women recruited to patrol the streets and parks, the Girls' Protective Bureau functioned with the full approval and cooperation of the police department, but without police authority. By April 1918 some patrols had begun to operate on the main streets of Toronto, and requests for officers were being received from outlying areas of Parkdale and the Beaches. Fluctuating from month to month, the actual number of volunteer Big Sisters was never sufficiently large to serve all the girls who came to the attention of the agency. In 1918, 24 socially prominent Toronto women formed the Board of Councillors, and

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the association roster listed three classes of membership. Active volunteers were each assigned a Little Sister. Sustaining members filled other roles, for example, loaning their homes for large fund-raising events, or Christmas parties for girls known to the agency. Associate members made donations to the cause, accepted Little Sisters into their homes as nursemaids, or domestics, or offered other worthy service. At the beginning of 1920 the roster listed only 54 active volunteers. These women, in addition to other assignments, accepted responsibility for hospital visiting previously done by staff, in an effort to make it possible for the field workers to cope with an increasing caseload. In spite of constant demands on her energies, the general secretary spent many of her free hours giving informative talks to groups outside the Association about the need for Big Sister service. In compliance with a request from a group of women in Ottawa, she and the president gave valuable assistance in the organization of a Big Sister Association in that city, in the autumn of 1920. Women in the City of Kitchener also asked for advice in setting up a Big Sister Movement, and were helped to establish an association before the end of the year. When Bessie Kurata resigned in June 1919, her resignation posed a problem for members of the Board of Councillors. Where could they, on a limited budget, find a replacement for such a wise and dedicated caseworker? What rate of remuneration could they afford to offer a field secretary with comparable skills and experience? When a sub-committee, appointed to study salaries paid to social workers in the community, recommended "payment of salaries commensurate with experience and job expectation" rather than the lowest possible rate of remuneration, the policy was accepted. Instituted at that time, it has continued in practice through the years. At a meeting early in 1916, members of the Board of Councillors expressed the opinion that citizens in sympathy with the philosophy and work of their Association should seek election to the city council. Encouraged by her fellow Big Sisters, Mrs. Small entered municipal politics and was elected to the city council in 1920. There, she would join another Big Sister Board member, Mrs. L.A. Hamilton, elected an alderman the previous year. Members of the Association felt confident that with two of their members at City Hall the reforms for which they had pressed under Mrs. Small's leadership would be accomplished.

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8

The Scholarship Fund To cease education at fourteen is as unnatural as to die at fourteen. The one is physical death, the other intellectual death. . .. Sir Richard Livingstone, .Essays on Education

Mr. Hawley S. Mott was appointed judge of the juvenile court in February 1920. Almost immediately following his appointment the number of referrals to the Big Sister Association of children charged with truancy increased. It was hoped that, under the supervision of Big Sisters, the causes of a child's recurring absence from school would be discovered and eliminated. Low in funds, and short-staffed, the Board of Councillors began to search for ways of finding the dollars with which to employ an additional caseworker to share responsibility for the growing caseload. Eventually, funds for an added salary were released when a decision was made to forego the purchase of a new car for use by agency personnel. But in their efforts to discover the reasons for a girl's truancy Big Sisters learned that increasing numbers of parents of school age children were unable to provide their offspring with the needed carfare, text books, lunches or clothing. During a first visit to her Little Sister a volunteer, in an effort to make conversation, asked, "What do you like to do best?" Round-eyed with astonishment, the ten-year-old child, who should have been at school but had never been enrolled, replied, "I don't know, Ma'am. I've never been anywhere. I don't know what I like." A field worker, upon receipt of a telephone message from a school principal, called at the home of a Little Sister to inquire why she had been absent from her classes. Instead of replying, the child hid her face in hands that trembled, and began to cry.

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When the purpose of the visit was explained her mother said, "She hasn't been at school because she has no shoes to wear, and I can't afford to buy them. When it is wet she can wear her rubbers, but it isn't healthy to wear them all the time." Lack of appropriate wearing apparel was not always the reason for a girl's absence. To many mothers, a daughter's education was less important than the safety of her younger offspring. When the mother must be absent, or was ill, the school age daughter was required to remain at home to care for the smaller children. Determined to institute a course of action that would ensure the attendance at school of every eligible child known to the agency, Mrs. Small called members of the professional staff and Board of Councillors together in an emergency meeting. The outcome was establishment of the Big Sister Scholarship Fund "to contribute to the additional education of worthy, intelligent girls by paying for tuition fees, books, carfare, clothing, lunches and other necessities". Used for almost any need a school girl might have, the fund made it possible for many to complete secondary school courses, or obtain business training. At times, advantage was taken of the generosity of the Big Sisters. Mothers and daughters demanded shoes and clothing beyond their needs, or used scholarship money for purposes other than those for which it was intended. In spite of a number of such instances the programme served a very real need. The first monthly bursaries were given to five recipients during the 1920 school year. One of them was the girl who must wear rubbers because her mother lacked the dollars needed to provide her with shoes. Excluding carfare, clothing and shoes were the two greatest practical needs of school girls. In order to meet a steady demand for articles of wearing apparel, the Big Sisters gathered coats, dresses and underwear from the cupboards of their families. When the requests began to exceed the supply, they advertised in various church publications for articles of clothing. Bolts of flannelette were purchased, and volunteers and field secretaries laboured together to fashion the material into pyjamas and other garments to ensure the availability of an adequate supply. It was not unusual, during the first years of the existence of the fund, for a girl to arrive at the Big Sister office, on her first visit, clad in a much-worn dress that was her only article of clothing. The gift of a skirt and blouse, or a sweater from the office shelf,

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or a winter coat that could be cut down and remodelled spelled happiness to more than one Little Sister. One child cried when given three pretty summer dresses at one time. She would be able to look like the other girls at school, she said. Shoes were more difficult to obtain, and an especial shoe fund was established for the purchase of girls' footwear. Through an arrangement with the "Big 88 Shoe Store"1 a girl with a requisition slip signed by the general secretary could obtain shoes there without cost to her. The amount of an individual scholarship, or bursary was small, rarely more than $8.00 a month in the beginning. But it soon became evident to the Board of Councillors that if this particular aspect of the service were to be continued extra dollars would be required to finance it. Because of constant demands made upon members for other funds, it was decided that donations designated for scholarship assistance must be voluntary. Individual gifts by persons other than Big Sisters were encouraged. For many, a contribution to a scholarship project had a unique appeal, and through the years the fund received financial support from many friends of Big Sisters who sought tangible evidence of the effective use made of their donations. When the programme became better known to the public, school principals and Board of Education officials were among those who asked for scholarship assistance for children known to them. The Association received its first gift of funds designated for post-secondary education during the summer of 1920. A donation by the alumnae of St. Margaret's College2 made it possible for a Little Sister to attend and graduate from the University of Toronto in an arts course. Members of the Board of the Girls' Community Club made a similar donation in 1923. Through the years other clubs, including employee groups of large business firms, challenged by the need to provide girls with educational advantages beyond the means of their parents, have given generously to the Big Sister Scholarship Fund. Many recipients of scholarship assistance joined an alumnae upon graduation, and under the guidance of a staff member conducted business and social meetings. In a room in the Big Sister office they learned to sew, made petticoats and pyjamas for other scholarship girls, raised funds among themselves to further the work of the Big Sisters, and produced a number of plays for the entertainment of both Big and Little Sisters. The

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alumnae girls were referred to with pride by members of the Scholarship Committee, a part of whose function was to offer guidance and advice in the selection of a vocation to each one who received assistance. So pleased were members of the committee with the performance of the first girls to graduate from secondary school in 1922, after two years of assistance, that they arranged a June garden party for them. Eighteen applications for scholarships were approved in 1924, seven to be financed by the Imperial Order of Daughters of the Empire, for daughters of ex-servicemen, and 11 carried by the Big Sister Association at an average cost of $8.00 each per month for ten months of the year. Shaw's Business College, in 1923, began to allow a 50 percent reduction in fees to recipients of Big Sister assistance, but in spite of this relief the sum required in 1924 increased by $1,000.00. The amount expended on scholarships in 1928 was $2,762.00. By 1932 it reached $4,136.00. In 1933, some schools began to supply free text books to girls receiving bursary assistance from the Big Sisters, thereby reducing the amount spent in that year to $1,670.00. But the number of girls who asked for funds grew larger from year to year. By 1946, in spite of the fact that text books were free, the amount required to finance the requests for assistance was $3,398.00. A number of legacies have been left to the Big Sister Association through the years, with or without designation for an especial service. When Mrs. F.J. (Ethel Ames) Coombs passed away in the summer of 1926 the Association received a legacy of $5,000. Under the terms of her will the annual income from the gift, ($250.00), was marked for the Scholarship Fund. Memorial gifts, amounting to another $250.00 annually, for four years, were stipulated by her mother for further scholarships. Mrs. Coombs, and her mother, Mrs. A.E. Ames joined the Association when it was formally organized in 1916. Both were members of the Board of Councillors from its inception until a short time before Ethel's death. She was the first recording secretary of the Association, and held key positions on the finance and clubhouse committees, and in 1922 was elected president. She was forced to resign from the latter office a year later because of illness.

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Deeply appreciative of Mrs. Coombs' gift, members of the Scholarship Committee made careful plans for its use. To them, an increase in funds meant an increase in the number of girls enabled to continue their school courses to graduation. Assurance that a substantial sum of money would be available annually for bursaries made it possible for the committee to accept one girl for assistance in a course leading to a university degree, and permit another to pursue her studies in music. Vocational guidance was made available to girls known to the Big Sisters, in 1937, and the Board of Councillors engaged a social work graduate to administer the scholarship project. When a girl who had been a recipient of assistance visited the Big Sister office in 1938 to repay in full the amount of funds expended on her education members were understandably pleased. A new type of scholarship was launched in the autumn of 1952 when the late Mrs. C.P. (Grace) Fell, following her two year term as president, established a fund for advanced education. It was designed to assist clients of the agency with courses beyond the secondary school level. In order to finance the scheme Big Sisters who were, or had been active members of circles, were encouraged to become life members of the Association, at a cost of $100.00. The plan was well received. Ten Big Sisters became life members during the first year, thereby establishing a fund of $1,000.00, which was enhanced each time a life membership certificate was issued. Husbands, families, friends presented life certificates to Big Sisters who insisted upon continuing their active status. In 1958, Mrs. Fell was awarded a life membership by her Lawrence Park Circle in appreciation of her sponsorship of the project. Memorial funds, instituted by friends upon the death of a Big Sister, were, at the request of her family, also added to the Advanced Education Fund. In consequence, a number of girls known to the agency were enabled to pursue education or training beyond secondary school graduation, whether for a hairdressing course or a university degree. In June 1976, the president of the Big Sister Association received the following letter from a former client. It is quoted with her permission. Through information recently received at the office I learned that it is possible to become a member of the Big Sister Association. As my two sisters and I owe our high school education to the financial assistance given to us during our teenage years I am most grateful to the Associa-

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tion and am delighted to enclose my cheque for $5.00, representing the annual fee. I would also like to become a member of a Circle so that I may in some small way attempt to pay back the huge debt I owe to the Big Sisters and to help others wherever possible. I am quite aware that my sisters and I owe our present life style to the Big Sisters for without the financial assistance we received and the guidance and love offered to us after the death of our mother, I am sure we would still be in Cabbagetown living in poverty. I have been employed as a legal secretary for the past twenty years, and therefore can offer my assistance in many ways. In addition I am presently attending the University of Toronto as a part-time student, working towards a B.A. degree and feel that I can perhaps assist (and maybe even inspire) others who may wish to continue their education I am most anxious to offer my time and talents. Through the years many girls have availed themselves of assistance through the Big Sister scholarship programme in order to achieve the goal each set for herself. At the time the fund was first established, any girl in need might apply to the Association for assistance with school expenditures, whether or not she was previously known to them. A committee of volunteers screened each application and scanned monthly school report cards in order to judge the worth of the applicant. Some years later this policy changed, and a girl became eligible for bursary assistance only as part of a total counselling programme planned with her caseworker. In the 1960's the need for the fund diminished because of the availability of Board of Education grants and other sources of schooling dollars. At the present time funds are not designated especially for scholarships or bursaries. Both Scholarship and Advanced Education Funds have been absorbed into an Education Fund which, at the discretion of Staff and Board, may be used when needed to assist any student who is a client of the counselling service, at any level of education, and for any special career.

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9

A new dimension—The Circles Any problem to do with the welfare of young girls took their attention during the early years. Housing conditions were considered deplorable. A delegation went to the Toronto Housing Commission to ask what could be done. Some employers' practices were questionable. The general secretary investigated. A foreman in a candy factory swore horribly at the girls working under him. Members of the executive checked the story and wrote to the management. Two girls wanted to go berry-picking at the YWCA camp, but had no blankets. The executive took up a collection and bought some. . . . Joyce Lewis, "The First Ten Years", The Big Sister Newsletter, December 1961

A new dimension was added to the Association in 1922 through the formation of auxiliary groups called circles. Initiated in an effort to stimulate greater interest in the work of the Big Sisters, the circles have made the Association unique among social agencies. Ten years had passed since the first Big Sister committee was formed, and while the Board of Councillors recognized a need for closer personal involvement of the membership, they nevertheless felt justifiably pleased with the outcome of some of their plans. They could point to a number of achievements. They had as early as 1916 advocated that a woman be appointed as assistant to the Juvenile Court Commissioner. They had pressed also for the establishment of the Advisory Juvenile Court Committee which was a condition under which the Juvenile Court Act was proclaimed in Toronto. When the Committee was set up, Big Sisters were represented on it. Although the new detention facility would not open until 1923, they felt they could take some credit for the decision to establish it. Two members of the Board of Councillors were elected to the City Council soon after women attained the right to vote. They joined with the Big Brothers in June 1920 to organize the annual convention of the

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International Big Brother and Big Sister Movements, held in Toronto for the first time. Camp holidays and Christmas treats had been provided for a number of Little Sisters each year. Jobs were found for some, clothing and shoes supplied to many. Although it was difficult to estimate the measure of success they might claim, they were convinced that by helping so many of the girls referred from the court to attain better health, more education, and a purposeful aim in life, they were moving toward the goals envisaged by the first committee. In 1922, in answer to a request from Judge Mott, they extended their service to include young women released from prison. For several months the agency acted as a clearing centre for girls emerging from the jails and reformatories. They did not attempt to counsel or advise, but referred them to representatives of various church groups interested in the rehabilitation of prisoners. When members of the Board began to question the appropriateness of this facet of service for the Big Sister Association, it was discontinued. It was agreed that prevention of delinquency in children was their aim. They must concentrate their energies on the provision of a preventive service for girls. Reassessment of their role forced the conclusion that some means must be devised to provide more direct contact with associate and sustaining Big Sisters. Although some three hundred women were members of the organization in 1922, fewer than 60 were active volunteers working with Little Sisters. It was scarcely an adequate number to provide all children referred to them with a Big Sister since girls as young as eight years were being accepted for supervision or counselling, while some young women in their 20's continued to receive help. Stimulation of the entire membership to a greater participation in the work must be given high priority. Councillors agreed that an annual meeting, not always well attended, and an occasional drawing-room gathering, did not particularly encourage women to become active beyond payment of a fee and a monetary contribution. Too many Big Sisters were members in name only, and the number was increasing. Women must be involved together in some way that would spark new interest among them if the organization was to survive. A very real need for the volunteer continued, but her role was changing. While maintaining a personal relationship with the girl assigned to her, she often was the first to admit her inability

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to deal with her Little Sister's difficulties. Feelings of frustration and inadequacy led to a lessening of interest on the part of the volunteer as the need for more professional counselling became obvious. The necessity of employment of more casework staff was brought to the attention of the Board very forcefully in the spring of 1922 when the general secretary informed members that a Little Sister had endeavoured to commit suicide by jumping off the Dundas Street bridge into the Don River. Fortunately, the water level was low, and the terrified girl was able to wade to safety. Later in the year a second child attempted to end her life through the use of drugs. Big Sisters were shocked by the incidents. To several it was inconceivable that a girl could be so desperately unhappy that she would contemplate taking her own life. How had they failed these children, they asked. Was the agency endeavouring to serve too large a number of young people in too many ways? Could they afford to employ another caseworker? From what source could they obtain the dollars with which to pay her salary? Was fundraising a project in which associate and sustaining members could be involved? While Big Sisters searched for answers to these questions, Mrs. Leonard Murray, first vice-president, began to formulate a plan to bring members and prospective members into closer touch with the service. In her search for some popular means of stimulating their interest, Mrs. Murray talked with her friend and companion board member, Mrs. J. Robert Page. The idea of forming groups of Big Sisters in several residential areas was discussed. Hope Page offered to invite her Lawrence Park neighbours to tea. She would talk to them about the work Big Sisters were doing, and suggest that they form a sewing circle to meet at each other's homes once or twice a month, to make clothing for Little Sisters in need of wearing apparel. The general secretary, or a field worker would be invited to attend occasional meetings to inform them about the service, and relate human interest stories about girls known to them. Mrs. Page felt confident that if her friends understood that young people were often desperate when without jobs or funds, their support of the Big Sister concept would be assured. If a group of women could work together for something they believed in, there would be no limit to what they could accomplish! Her enthusiasm was contagious. While friends sipped tea in her

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home a few weeks later they agreed to enroll as members of a Lawrence Park Circle of the Big Sister Association, and promptly named her president. Many of them were young matrons with small children. Meetings held in their neighbourhood, to work for a common cause, had an especial appeal for them. Rather than become active volunteers, working directly with Little Sisters, they chose to be a sewing group to make garments for girls in need of them, and raise funds to support the Big Sister service in whatever ways seemed best. The sum of $50.00 was realized at their first bridge party, in January 1923, and used to purchase materials for skirts and blouses to be made during their work meetings. Officially launched in April 1922, with 40 members, formation of the Lawrence Park Circle marked the beginning of a new kind of membership. Two other groups, Moore Park and Central, the latter now known as Helen Robertson Circle, were organized a few months later, followed by Hill and Parkdale, which later became York Circle. Within two years five groups, with a total membership of 154, were giving encouragement to the Staff and Board of Councillors by their willingness to provide several kinds of practical aid to Little Sisters. They did not, except in one or two instances, have contact with the girls known to the agency. But lines of communication between Board and Circles were established when the president of each group became a member of the Board of Councillors. Intrigued by the enthusiasm of the women who worked together in their respective circles, a number of associate and sustaining members joined one or another of the groups and became actively involved in the projects undertaken. Capable, kindhearted, generous, members responded to any demand made upon them. When it was learned, in 1923, that a child, who wanted very much to become a girl guide, was unable to afford the necessary uniform, a member of Moore Park Circle volunteered to help her make one. Accompanied by the girl, she shopped for material. Returning to her home, she cut the cloth, fitted it to the youthful figure, stitched it on her sewing machine and, when the task was completed, invited her visitor to partake of the family dinner. Afterward, with the new uniform clutched in eager hands, the little girl was driven home. Circle members, later that year, sought the assistance of a librarian on the staff of the College Street public library in establishing a book corner in the Big Sister office. The shelves were stocked with books

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that would "help girls in the formation of good reading habits". Miss Marshall Saunders,1 author of the book Beautiful Joe , launched the project by presenting the library shelf with an autographed copy of her newly published animal story. The worth of the circles was being proven constantly. A telephone call from the general secretary to any one of the five presidents was, as a rule, all that was necessary to enlist that group's cooperation in whatever project required attention. An example of such support was demonstrated by Hill Circle members in 1927. With funds realized from a bridge party and rummage sale they were able to purchase or make dozens of nightgowns and undergarments for more than a hundred Little Sisters who would, during the summer months, have a holiday at Bolton Camp.2 At the request of the general secretary they arranged a Saturday picnc for one group of girls, a movie and supper for another. In addition, they assumed responsibility for three scholarship girls, as an ongoing project which included provision of clothing, books and carfare. All five groups were untiring in their efforts to support the service. Dozens of skirts and blouses were made at circle meetings and sent to "Headquarters" to be available to any girl in need. Often, members arranged for milk and eggs to be delivered daily, for varying periods of time, to girls who were ill or undernourished. Occasionally, this service was abused when mothers continued to ask for supplementary foods weeks after their daughters' health had been restored. Central and Parkdale Circles boasted fewer members than Lawrence Park's 40, or Hill's 37, but their enthusiasm was as keen and their fingers worked as fast to sew an incredible supply of garments for Little Sisters. The ladies of Central Circle derived great satisfaction from their monthly meetings. All 18 members were friends who enjoyed each other's company, and believed in "having fun while they worked". If they could raise funds by involving husbands in an evening bridge party instead of holding a rummage sale, they chose the party, although they, as well as the members of other circles, considered annual rummage sales a necessary evil. In the words of a charter member of Central Circle, the members met at ten in the morning, one day a month for a work meeting, each with needle, thread and scissors, and a sandwich for lunch. At four in the afternoon they gathered up the unfinished garments and

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took them home to be completed before the next work meeting. Two weeks later they assembled for the monthly business meeting. When the reports had been read and other business attended to, card tables were unfolded and the ladies settled down to an afternoon of bridge. A fee of 25 cents or 50 cents was charged each player and added to the fund that paid for one girl's dental care, swimming lessons for another, and donations to the scholarship and other funds. For several years Moore Park Circle was largest in size, with a membership of 62 in 1924. Like the others, their members held sewing meetings and supported the scholarship fund. While their knitting needles clicked, they listened to the general secretary, or another speaker who, each month, helped them understand why the work they were doing was important; why the physical needs of certain girls must be met before emotional problems that sometimes led to delinquency could be resolved. During 1924 they made it possible for a girl to remain at school by contributing the sum of $6.00 each week to pay the cost of carfare, books, clothing and school lunches at 15 cents a day. It was an especial project undertaken in addition to their other contributions. New enthusiasm was infused into the Association by the advent of the circles. The character of the membership began to change as circle members combined their energies to provide tangible assistance to girls without personal contact with them. The numbers of associates dwindled as membership in circles enlarged. While a few active volunteers continued a personal contact with the children for whom they had accepted responsibility, the conviction was growing among members of the Board that only trained staff could deal with the serious problems of many girls. Consequently, women were less eager than formerly to assume the role of Big Sister to a child. Although circle membership has changed through the years, the five groups formed in the early twenties remain strong in their conviction that the youth service they sponsor is worthy of their support, and must continue to be available to those who seek help. Seven further circles now share with the original five responsibility for operation of the service sponsored by the Association.

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At a meeting of the Board, in 1934, the general secretary spoke of a need to recruit young volunteers to assist professional staff with several club programmes that were being offered Little Sisters at Kemp House, in the Moss Park district. Mrs. J. Robert Page responded by enlisting the assistance of the Junior Girls' Club of North Toronto, a group of teenaged girls who, as children, played together after school at Bedford Park, and continued their association as they grew up. During their college years, and after graduation, as members of the Beta Theta Alpha sorority, they continued to complement the Moss Park programme until it terminated. They acted as a junior circle until 1937 when they were formally admitted to membership as the Hope Page Circle. Adopting the name of the woman who inspired and counselled them, they endeavoured to fulfil her expectations. Through 40 years the Hope Page Circle has made a valuable contribution to the accomplishments of the Association. The Rosedale Circle, also formed in 1937, and amalgamated with the Village Circle in 1941, is a small group of energetic women who give loyal support to Association projects, raise funds for practical aid to girls known to Big Sister staff by clever and original methods. Several are charter members, having joined as a group of young girls. They chose to name their circle, Rosedale, because it was the area in which the majority of original members lived. In 1956, a group of eager young women who, during adolescent years, attended Gay Venture Camp in the Highlands of Haliburton, Ontario, decided that they must have a common purpose in order to continue their friendly association. They chose to become the Gay Venture Circle. It was the first new circle to be formed in 10 years. Inspired by the caring concept of the Association's aim and purpose, encouraged in the beginning by a member of the Board who acted as their consultant, they have given valuable support to the counselling service in many ways. The Kingsway Circle was formed in 1965, at a time when Big Sisters were heavily involved in Thrift Shop arrangements, perfecting plans for a two-day formal Open House at 138 Madison, and studying ways and means of accommodating new staff at 34 Huntley Street. They were a group of 25 young matrons from the Kingsway-Lambton-Etobicoke area. With representa-

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tion on the Board of the newly-established Etobicoke Girls' Residence, as well as the Board of the Big Sister Association, they were able to institute a "sharing of volunteer's knowledge and experience" with both agencies. Intelligent, hard-working women, knowledgeable about community needs, they add strength to the Association membership, give leadership in committees, work on regular shifts at the Thrift Shop. Several members of the former Margaret Scott group joined with other women to organize the Avenue Circle in 1975. In 1976 another group was accepted into the Association as the Humber Circle, and in 1977 the Jubilee Circle was formed, adding strength to the total membership. Four other groups who formed Big Sister Circles failed to survive. In 1928, several young business girls joined the May Louise Memorial Circle and worked enthusiastically to provide funds for scholarships. Three years later they were forced to disband. The Junior Hill Circle, organized in 1939, was dissolved in 1941. Another group of women, daughters of Hill Circle members, formed the Oriole Circle in 1959, and after 10 years of willing service amalgamated with the Gay Venture members to form one larger, stronger group. The Margaret Scott Circle was organized in 1942. For more than 30 years their members gave staunch support to Association projects, made a valuable contribution on administrative and service committees, and at the end of 1973 found they could no longer function as a circle. Their withdrawal was felt keenly by other members of the Association. Reasons for the need to disband as a circle were justified and logical, and in no way diminished the interest of individual members in the goals of the Association. The names of a number of these women now appear on the general membership roster. The circles are autonomous. Guided by the bylaws which govern the Association, each group makes its own rules, plans its programmes. Certain members serve on committees, others on the Board of Directors and on appropriate groups in the community who are concerned about the welfare of youth. From the time the first circle was launched in 1922 fewer women became involved in a direct relationship with girls who approached the Big Sisters for help. By 1925 the number of active volunteers in the Big Sister-Little Sister programme had dwindled to 35. A newer, and perhaps less affluent group of

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women, many with children of their own, were joining the Association as members of circles. Stirred by the concept of contributing to the well-being of children less advantaged than their own, they worked in their several groups to raise the practical aid funds that might pay for the hospital costs of a girl who was ill, or the dental bills of another, or buy shoes for a third. Increasingly, the counselling staff were finding that their experience and professional skills were being taxed to the limit tr. find solutions to some of the complex youth problems with which they were faced. The Big Sister-Little Sister programme of the earlier years was gradually being phased out in favour of counselling by professionals. The women who worked in circles laboured enthusiastically to provide financial and moral support for the youth agency they sponsored because they cared about the girls the staff were endeavouring to help. In 1977, as in the earlier years, the knowledge that groups of well-informed women believe in the worth of the youth service sponsored by the Association, and tangibly support it, enables the professional staff of the agency to work with youth in innovative ways that might not otherwise be possible. The agency is a member of The United Way, and circle members actively support the annual fund-raising campaign. As of 31 December 1977, 259 women, in 12 circles, contribute knowledge, expertise and valuable hours of time to furtherance of the service sponsored by the Big Sister Association. Sixty-one life and 247 general members add their moral and financial support.

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10

A change in emphasis Doctors, teachers, employers all make their contribution to the girls' welfare. But shoe polish, soap, knitting materials, books and skates have important parts to play also. One realizes the futility of telling a Little Sister to be a "good girl" when greeted with the wondering question as to what she will do with herself while being good. . . . Big Sister Association Annual Report 1926 , from report of the general secretary

Heretofore, Big Sisters had tried to serve anyone who sought help, whether a woman in her 20's, or a child of six. On 11 November 1925, however, the Board of Councillors announced that the upper age limit for girls accepted for counselling, or other assistance, would be set at 18. Following conferences with Judge Mott of the Juvenile Court and the Director of the Federation for Community Service, they began to see that even greater emphasis must be placed on prevention of delinquency. More and more often troublesome children were being referred by schools, parents or other sources. While continuing their rehabilitation programme to girls assigned to them from the court, the Association must further develop a preventive service. The energies of the professional staff would, to a greater degree, be directed toward provision of counselling to younger, pre-delinquent children. It was hoped that by this means "girls could be freed from retarding influences whether within themselves, their homes or the community". Responsibility for achieving this end would be assumed primarily by staff, although under professional guidance the volunteer would make an important contribution. In discussing the implications of the new policy the Big Sisters agreed that, as an organization, it would be wise to comply with the suggestion of the Federation for Community Service, and refrain from active endorsement of a candidate in any election.

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Their former custom of publicly supporting those candidates whom they felt would press for the reforms they urged would be abandoned. Acceptance of public funds for their work made it necessary to direct their energies to the promotion of the welfare of young girls. Their decision was influenced in some degree by the fact that the Budget Committee of the Federation for Community Service did not accept the $300.00 deficit incurred by the Big Sisters in 1924, nor grant the agency's request for a budget increase of $1,400.00 in 1925. Consequently 1925 became a year of financial crisis, and the need to raise funds was imperative. So much concern was expressed that funds for 1926 might be drastically cut that a Committee of the Board requested a meeting with Federation officials in order to impress upon them the fact that any curtailment of funds would lead eventually to diminished service. But when the Federation Budget Committee recommended dismissal of three Big Sister field workers, because of poor performance records, the Executive felt strongly that a thorough investigation of the charges must first be made. When this was done it was agreed that the three resignations should be requested. Immediate recruitment of new staff was essential. To complicate further their difficult situation the number of active volunteers had dwindled to 35. It was a year in which there was much poverty in the city, and many requests for practical aid had to be met before counselling could have any noticeable effect. The number of Christmas hampers packed, at a cost of $5.00 each, for the families of Little Sisters, exceeded that of previous years. But when the books of the Association were audited at the year end and it was realized that in addition to funds from the Federation for Community Service, $4,465.00 in unsolicited gifts had been received during the year, members of the Board of Councillors were heartened. The money given them had been well used. Although they continued to be low in funds, such practical demonstration of public faith in the worth of the Big Sister Association restored their self-confidence and confirmed a belief that the service they offered was a vital one. The total budget for 1925 amounted to $10,763.00. In 1923, the Federation for Community Service suggested that, as a matter of economy, the Boards of the Big Sister Association and Big Brother Movement consider amalgamation of their

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services. The Big Sisters objected emphatically at that time to the idea, stating that both services were needed. Their reasons were logical. Of necessity the two agencies must differ in their methods of serving children, since one dealt with boys and the other with girls. Their service to girls was more encompassing in scope in that in addition to counselling they were able to provide such practical aid as shoes and clothing when needed, as well as funds for doctor and dental and hospital bills. Their scholarship programme was unique, and must be encouraged. In the face of their strong objection to the union the suggestion was withdrawn. A similar proposal, in September 1924, that they unite with the Roman Catholic Big Sisters was favourably regarded, and approved in principle. But when it was learned that the other agency would insist that Roman Catholic children be served by staff of similar faith, the Board of Councillors demurred. Members felt strongly that since the Big Sister Association was designated non-sectarian, they could not endorse a course of action that would be contrary to their bylaws. Convinced that amalgamation would lead to denial of their non-sectarian policy, they declined to merge with the other agency. There were 342 names on the Big Sister membership roster, and the agency employed a staff of five to give service to clients, whereas the Roman Catholic Big Sisters, with a membership of 50, employed two staff persons. In the opinion of the vice-president, Mrs. A.M. Huestis, "there was little to be gained and much to be lost through such a union". Mrs. Huestis, with the privilege of a founding member, did not hesitate to speak her mind. The Association's plan to extend their preventive service to pre-delinquent children included opportunities for healthful recreation and friendships with their peers. An initial step was the establishment of several girls' clubs throughout the city. Renting a room in a building that housed a branch of the Neighbourhood Workers' Association, in the east end of the city, they opened an area office and organized a girls' recreational club. The staff member in charge encouraged the children who attended to participate in the several activities, taught them crafts and gave them sewing instruction. In a police station in the Bathurst street area, a similar club was organized, and later moved to Hillcrest House, the Neighbourhood Workers' Association branch on Rusholme Road. When Hillcrest House moved to 643 Markham Street in 1929, the Big Sister club for girls

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moved with it. In 1930 the east end office and club were moved to Kemp House, the new community centre in the Moss Park district. A further office was opened at Main Street and Danforth Avenue, in the Scarborough district, in 1932. The monthly rental of $10.00 was paid by the Federation for Community Service. Funds for furnishing the rooms were donated by Big Sisters of Hill Circle. There, a caseworker conducted craft sessions with groups of girls, following the pattern established in other areas. There were art classes, dramatic clubs, debating societies, and sewing groups, all designed to promote friendships, discover possible talent, and by filling leisure hours with wholesome activities, prevent delinquency. In 1934, a club for girls was formed in North Toronto, with headquarters in the Y.W.C.A. building. A group of 18-year-olds opened a Big Sister Club in the West End Y.W.C.A., and girls with jobs downtown were encouraged to join the St. Andrews Club, at 73 Simcoe Street, where they could get lunch any weekday for 20 cents. A junior girls' club, formed in 1933, met on Saturdays at the Children's Centre of the Art Gallery, under the guidance of a staff member from the main office in the Registry Building. From the beginning, the Big Sisters strove to give what they considered to be the best quality of service possible to the largest number of girls. On the whole, the club programme was successful, although at times the skills and ingenuity of the caseworkers were taxed to the limit. Children of immigrant families posed problems, particularly if parents could not be fully involved because of a language barrier. In one instance a girl of 14 whose family belonged to a strict religious sect, told the social worker that her parents had beaten her for disobedience when she secured a job without their approval. She was not allowed to retain any portion of her salary of $8.50 a week, nor was she permitted to participate in the recreational programme offered .by the nearby Settlement House because "she might meet boys there". In order that she would have no opportunity to talk with boys on the street she was accompanied to work by her brother, at the mother's request. When refusing to allow her daughter to accept a book from the library shelf in the Big Sister office, the .mother, in broken, halting English, told the staff worker that her daughter was permitted to read only "Jesus books". Members of the Association regarded the club programme not so much in terms of prevention of delinquency as in a project for enrichment of lives that might otherwise be intolerably bleak.

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But the fact that only a minimal number of younger girls known to the agency came before the juvenile court, and very few of those referred by the judge appeared before him a second time was regarded as an indication that the therapeutic value of the club programme was being demonstrated. In 1936, the Big Sister Association was sponsoring 16 club groups that met regularly in several areas of the city and suburbs, in churches, the Y.M.C. A. or in branches of the Neighbourhood Workers' Association.

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11

The era of Miss Helen Robertson The only excuse for a voluntary agency is excellence .. . from Child Welfare League of America records

Helen Robertson came to the Big Sister Association from the City of Toronto Department of Public Health and Welfare. In the autumn of 1926, in answer to a request from the principal of the Edith L. Groves School for Retarded Girls, the Department asked the Big Sister Association to replace their part-time worker in the school with an experienced social service graduate who could give the girls daily attention. Under the terms agreed to, the person employed would become a member of the Big Sister staff, although the Department would pay her salary for a period of one year. If the experiment proved successful, it would be continued by the Association as an extension of service. To members of the Board of Councillors a request from the City Welfare Department to provide this added service proved the worth of the Big Sister counselling service, and demonstrated the measure of importance placed on it in the community. By mutual agreement between the Department and the Big Sisters Helen Robertson was appointed to the position. A graduate of the University of Toronto School of Social Work in 1924, Helen Robertson was a young woman with strong convictions. She believed in the inherent worth of every young person. Because her feelings about the importance of a programme that emphasized prevention of juvenile delinquency were very positive, she chose to work with adolescent girls. The Edith L. Groves School, situated on Dovercourt Road, south of College Street, was an institution for girls between the ages of 13 and 16 whose degree of mental retardation was moderate. Children with an intelligence quotient of less than 50 were considered ineligible for admission. Training in household skills, and the care of children was an important part of the

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educational programme. A small branch of the Toronto Public Library, set up in the school, provided suitable books for the students. Children interested in swimming could obtain free lessons at the Central Technical School. At the age of 16 girls left the institution to accept such jobs as were open to them. Many entered domestic service. A number were placed in the homes of Big Sisters and their friends. In the words of Helen Robertson, the girls with whom she began to work were "likeable, teachable and very responsive". Influenced by her enthusiasm for her job, members of Big Sister circles, Moore Park in particular, became actively interested in the pupils of Edith L. Groves School, and frequently contributed sums of money for them. Circle members planned Christmas parties at the school, with decorated trees, presents and refreshments to tempt any child. Among the 101 girls provided with camp holidays by the Big Sisters during the summer of 1928, were 45 from the Edith L. Groves School who attended the Neighbourhood Workers' Association camp at Bolton, Ontario, in the care of Miss Robertson. The average cost to the Big Sisters of a camp holiday for a girl was $7.50 in 1928, due largely to the fact that circle members provided a major share of the camp clothing, toilet articles and bathing suits necessary to her enjoyment of a summer vacation. Members of the Board of Councillors observed Miss Robertson's work with the retarded girls with interest and listened carefully to the school principal's reports. When it became necessary to find a replacement for the general secretary in 1929, Miss Robertson was asked to fill the vacancy. She accepted, and immediately the principals of both Edith L. Groves and the Bolton Avenue School for the Retarded persuaded her to act in the capacity of adviser to their staff. This action further proved to the public the value of the service the Big Sisters offered. Although she no longer worked with the girls in the school, she retained a friendly relationship with them. At her request a number who had received instruction in sewing continued to mend or alter used clothing given to the Big Sisters for the many impoverished young people known to the agency. Their tangible contribution to the Big Sister service brought a sympathetic reaction from circles. Members of Moore Park continued their active interest for a number of years in the girls at Edith L. Groves School. Members of Hill Circle were interested also in the pupils of the Bolton Avenue School, and provided monthly

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funds for shoes and clothing, financed summer outings and planned Christmas entertainments for them. Assured that they had amply demonstrated that the social adjustment of children in institutions for the retarded should go hand in hand with their vocational training, the Big Sisters, in 1930, gave full approval to the transfer of responsibility for the Edith L. Groves School to the Division of Mental Hygiene of the Department of Public Health which recommended children for placement and supervised them following graduation. Within weeks of her appointment as general secretary, Helen Robertson began to give a new depth of meaning to the phrase "Big Sister" through her recognition of the need to involve Association members in meaningful roles, and her ability to utilize their many strengths in the furtherance of the service for which she had assumed responsibility. She found members of the Board of Councillors in complete accord with her conviction that the service offered should emphasize prevention of juvenile delinquency. In conjunction with the formation of girls' clubs to provide healthful recreation, offices had already been opened in certain Neighbourhood Workers' Association centres, notably Moss Park and Hillcrest House, and in the West End Creche and St. Christopher Settlement House. Requests that similar clubs be established in the outlying areas of Parkdale, East York and Scarborough were being considered, and the Board of Councillors had begun to talk of the need to change the name of the Association to one more descriptive of the geographic areas served. Legally incorporated in 1930, the Association became the Big Sister Association of Toronto and York. Although the necessity of incorporation had been pointed out by the Federation for Community Service in 1920, and discussed by the Association in 1923, no positive action was taken until the Board learned in 1929 that a Montreal group of Big Sisters had been organized as a national movement. Almost half of the families known to the Big Sisters were accepting relief in 1931, some of them for the first time in their lives. In discussions with the Board of Councillors Helen Robertson continued to emphasize the need to provide programmes that would involve larger numbers of girls. Recreation, she said, assumed a new importance with the increase of unemployment. Parents

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without jobs, their savings depleted, were being left with too many spare hours in which to brood over their difficulties. Unable to cope with the burden of poverty, some fathers disappeared, and mothers, pushed beyond the limit of endurance, in certain instances abandoned their families. A breakdown in family morale contributed to girls' problems, and frequently led to delinquency. In an endeavour to help members understand some of the causes of juvenile delinquency, she quoted excerpts from case histories of girls known to her. One girl, with over-strict parents who had no sympathy with her desire for a good time, rebelled and ran away. She was picked up by the police and referred to the Big Sisters. The professional staff were working with both girl and parents. Another teenager "played truant because she was behind in school, but was delighted to discover that she had other talents which might be cultivated to advantage". In another case, a stepmother was unkind, and her stepdaughter "stole and lied to get even with her". A girl who "was lazy, but loved to attract attention, resorted to swallowing a pin to get out of her job", while another whose father was dead and mother a semiinvalid, asked only for a chance for an education. She received scholarship funds to help her realize her desire. Truancy and theft were two major offences, and the basic reasons for both were often the same. Very real poverty existed in the homes of many children. Lack of funds for appropriate clothing often caused a girl's absence from school. The same lack might tempt her to steal, although the underlying motive for theft was likely to be less clearly discernible. It was important, she said, that more girls' clubs, with a caseworker on staff, be established in areas easily available to adolescents who could benefit from the recreational programme offered. In 1930, 47 percent of the girls served by the Big Sister agency were 16 years of age or over; 40 percent in the 13 to 15 year age range, and the balance of 13 percent under 13. Five years later 25 percent were 12 and under. The fact that twice as many children of 12 and under were coming to the attention of the Big Sisters in 1935 was indicative of the times, the dire poverty in which many families existed during the depression years. In addition to office interviews, members of the professional staff made numerous calls at the homes of Little Sisters as they worked to solve the problems of the 1,095 girls seen by them

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during that year. It was not unusual to make two calls in one week on a girl who was in conflict with her family. In the meantime, circle members were busy making 350 Christmas gifts to be wrapped and distributed to Little Sisters in December. By 1939 the number of gifts made had doubled. In order that each Little Sister would receive a present, 700 Christmas gifts were made, and girls from the Scholarship Alumnae were recruited to dress and wrap 25 dolls for younger children. The east end office and girls' club moved to quarters in Kemp House in the Moss Park district in September 1930. When a number of new girls were attracted to the club, Helen Robertson began to recruit young volunteers to assist staff with the Kemp House recreational programme. In 1934, the schedule at Kemp and Parkdale House was extended to include sex instruction to mothers in order that they might in turn give intelligent information to their children. The number of illegitimate pregnancies among girls known to the agency had increased alarmingly. Convinced that delinquency did not always reveal itself in girls as early as in boys, their opinions strengthened by Helen Robertson's belief that young girls charged with an offence needed the protection of the juvenile court beyond the age of 16, the Board of Councillors, supported by an Association membership of 329, agreed to take some action. Although, as an Association, the Big Sisters ceased support of political candidates in any election after 1923, their awareness of the need for social reforms was constant. Their determination to lobby for changes in existing conditions never wavered, nor did they hesitate to approach any level of government with their demands for action. Within weeks of Helen Robertson's appointment as general secretary, a resolution was sent to the Attorney General of Ontario, asking that the age limit for juveniles appearing before the court be raised from 16 to 18. Again, in 1934, the Board of the Big Sister Association reminded the Attorney General that it was imperative that the juvenile age limit be raised to 18. In 1979 the age limit remains at 16.

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While pressing for change in the age limit, the Board of Councillors also urged the establishment of a home for girls similar to the one already in operation for boys, at Bowmanville, Ontario. The opening of the Gait Training School, on 4 October 1933, was heralded with satisfaction by the Big Sister Association. Members of the Board agreed to keep in close touch with the programme offered. It was hoped that the new facility would provide a positive rehabilitative programme for girls referred there by the juvenile court. When an announcement was made two years later that amalgamation of the Alexandria Industrial School and the Gait Training School was being considered by the government of the province of Ontario, the Big Sisters protested the plan and requested an interview with the Honourable David Croll. In their opinion there was a need for both facilities. Amalgamation took place, however, in May 1936, in spite of their disapproval. Formal complaint was registered by the Association. Again, when the Royal Canadian Air Force petitioned the Ontario government, in 1940, to be allowed to take over the Gait School, the Big Sisters sent a further letter of objection to the Premier. Meanwhile, their service to girls was becoming more widely known throughout the city. More and more often, girls in need of clothing, or funds for school expenses were finding their way to the Big Sister office. Without the substantial sums of money received for scholarship, Christmas and camp funds from philanthropic organizations such as the American Women's Club, Sherbourne House Chapter IODE, and others, the Association might have had difficulty in financing their service. Girls from Miss Mary Edgar's Camp Glen Bernard^sent a substantial cheque. A friend of Hope Page donated a used car for the professional staff, with a 3 cent per gallon gasoline discount. By 1939 there were sufficient funds in the bank to warrant the purchase of a new car at a price of $572.00. Although friends sent articles of clothing, new and used, to the office to be cut down or adapted, wearing apparel was always in short supply. But the donations to the scholarship and camp funds enabled the Big Sisters to provide more bursary assistance and made it possible for a larger number of girls to enjoy a summer holiday. The dollars received were soon spent. After the Big Sisters began to emphasize a programme of prevention, referrals from the juvenile court diminished noticeably. Delinquent children were being placed in the rehabilitative

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programme of the Gait Training School. When members of the Board of Councillors learned that in 1934 only 11 percent of the cases referred to the Big Sisters had come from the court they agreed that there was less need for their office to be in close proximity to it. Aware that the character of the Albert Street area in which both court and Big Sister offices were located had begun to deteriorate they began to be concerned about the wisdom of remaining in such a location. Often, members of the staff were obliged to draw the blinds when curious spectators lingered outside to stare at Big and Little Sisters in the street level rooms. Toward the end of 1938 Helen Robertson asked the Board to consider relocation of the office as early as possible. It was a step that required serious deliberation. Through the courtesy of the city government the Big Sisters had expanded their offices, occupying several rooms in the Albert Street building. To find suitable quarters with comparable space in a desirable central area of the city might be difficult. The library, installed at 90 Albert Street in 1933 with the assistance of the staff of Boys and Girls House of Central Library, would have to be dismantled. They were serving girls aged eight to eighteen. What effect would a change in location have on children who had become familiar with the Albert Street office? Would the younger girls find their way to a new location? These and other questions were raised in several Board meetings. It was not until June 1939 that the Councillors agreed that 90 Albert Street was no longer a suitable location for their purpose. The Second World War had begun before members of the Board assembled after summer vacation, and for a time plans for relocation of the office were shelved. Individual Big Sisters became involved in war related projects as sons and daughters of many joined some branch of the Canadian forces. By the spring of 1940 members of Big Sister circles were actively participating in the operation of the Active Service Canteen, staffing it entirely on Saturday mornings. Others packed food boxes for Red Cross Prisoner of War Services, or assisted in the supervision of numbers of evacuated British children when they began to arrive in Toronto. Many Big Sisters opened their homes to these unknown boys and girls and assumed responsibility for them until the war ended. In spite of their added responsibilities Big Sisters continued to work in their circles to supply funds and clothing and other necessities for girls known to the professional staff. Promotion of the welfare of youth

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remained their avowed purpose. The evacuees from England who claimed their love and compassion for a time were children too, whose welfare must be supervised, and as such were a part of the Big Sister purpose. It was not until 15 January 1941 that a house at 20 Wellesley Street was leased as an office for the Big Sister Association. The monthly rental was $65.00. It was a roomy house, well suited to be an office, and with the assistance of circle members was furnished comfortably. Located a few doors from Yonge Street, it was easily accessible to transportation. The scholarship alumnae girls found it an ideal place to hold their monthly meetings. Little Sisters who wished to sew were helped to do so. They came to the house on Saturdays and learned to use the office sewing machine to make simple skirts and blouses. Commercial course students practised their typing on an antiquated typewriter until it was replaced by a newer model in 1942. Through the generosity of circle members 155 girls were enabled to enjoy a holiday at camp or summer cottage during the summer of 1941. In November 322 girls went to the Shriners' circus, using tickets given to the Association by that organization. Throughout the winter groups of girls looked forward to weekly suppers at the house as part of their club programme. Proud of their new headquarters, the Big Sisters, on 2 May 1942, held Open House at 20 Wellesley Street, and later in the month "entertained mothers of Little Sisters at tea on two successive days". Attendance at the club programmes increased as larger numbers of mothers became involved in the production of war materials. In September 1941 Helen Robertson appealed to the eight circles to provide volunteer assistance to group workers in several areas on definite afternoons each week in the manner in which members of Hope Page circle were working at Kemp House. The group programmes had become a very important part of the Big Sister service to girls. In a letter to Premier Hepburn in January 1942, the Association protested lowering of the school age to 15 because so many girls were leaving school at that age to join the work force. They could earn as much as $25.00 a week in some industrial establishments. Reporting to the Association for the year 1942 Helen Robertson stated, "More and more we are realizing that Big Sister service

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should not be limited to one income level. Only 20 percent of the families known to us this year have required financial assistance from private or government agencies." But some middle income parents were being driven to seek Big Sister help for their difficult children. The new prosperity was not without its problems for the families who enjoyed it. Sixty-six percent of the young people who kept counselling appointments at the Big Sister office immediately after the war were between the ages of 13 and 15. The older girls who came were encouraged to use the vocational guidance service provided to them. Through it 57 girls were helped to make a better social adjustment in 1945. The juvenile court had begun to assume full responsibility for the disposition of its cases, and no longer referred them to the Big Sister Association. The agency was thus able to focus its whole attention on prevention of delinquency. "We are concerned," Helen Robertson informed the Board of Councillors, "about the older group of adolescent 'nonconformist' girls and boys who hang about street corners, cheap grills and beverage rooms in order to satisfy their need for companionship and excitement. How to interest more of them in wholesome activities is a problem the community has not met satisfactorily. Problems with parents, something amiss in the home contributes to the emotional disturbance of girls. Delinquent acts are only symptoms of deeper stresses." In tune with her plan to involve the membership in the realities of the problems, she recruited several Big Sisters to visit certain restaurants and doubtful places of amusement where youth gathered in the evening, and report any untoward incidents. The women recruited were vague about the kinds of actions and conditions they were expected to pinpoint, unsure of the meaning of the word "unto ward" in relation to the youth they were to observe. While husbands acted as babysitters to their own young sons and daughters, and perhaps worried about the direction in which their wives' adventures might lead them, the Big Sisters, immaculate in their good middle class clothing, properly hatted and gloved, began their investigation. At ten o'clock they made their first call at a large downtown restaurant where 90 percent of the customers were teenage boys and girls. Seated by request at a table close to the rear of the room, they ordered tea and toast, and while they waited to be served, smiled in

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friendly fashion at the young people at nearby tables, who stared at them with frankly curious eyes. Having chosen their table carefully, in order to have a full view of the room, they looked around them for signs of misbehavior. Here and there, a young man sat with a female companion, his arm draped carelessly across her shoulders. Girls snuggled close to their boy friends as they sipped soda and soft drinks. Close by, a boy leaned forward to kiss his girl, and elicited a look of horrified disapproval from the two women who sat sipping tea and nibbling their toast. Around them, young people ordered and consumed carbonated drinks, but in so far as the Big Sisters could tell, no young man produced a flask of liquor to sweeten his companion's beverage. Although they felt that some of the young people were less careful of their manners than they should have been, the women could find no real cause for concern. No offensively improper behavior had been witnessed. At midnight the same volunteers parked their car outside a small sandwich bar on Mount Pleasant Road. They had heard that the police were keeping an eye on the restaurant because of its reputation as a "hangout for rowdy gangs". Inside, three truck drivers consumed sandwiches and coffee at the counter, before beginning their night journey. Two young men talked seriously over mugs of coffee in a far corner of the room. A lone teenaged boy threw darts at a board on the wall. When the Big Sisters invited him to join them for a cup of coffee, he shrugged his shoulders, muttered an unintelligible reply, and went on throwing darts. Rebuffed, they sipped their coffee in silence, and ordered second cups while they waited for something to happen. At the end of an hour they decided to return home. Uncertain of what kind of behavior they had expected to see, they found the evening dull but conceded that it was a useful experience. While other Big Sisters visited community centres, observed the programmes that were being offered young people in certain of the libraries, trained caseworkers were endeavouring to help solve the problems of the girls who came to the office. There was a psychologist on staff to assist the counsellors in pinpointing difficulties. In 1946 it was estimated that 66 percent of the 683 girls who sought assistance from the Big Sisters came from broken homes. Some were as young as ten years. The oldest was 17. Included in the number were 88 whose need was for scholarship assistance. Although the Province of Ontario Department of Education, in cooperation with the Dominion government offered 207 student aid scholarships of $100.00 each to grade 13

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students in secondary schools in 1946, the demand for Big Sister bursary assistance increased. "Casework group activities carried on in our club rooms and elsewhere have been very successful," Helen Robertson observed in her report for 1946. "In small, carefully selected groups, with diversified programmes, girls receive more individual attention, and in a relaxed atmosphere where the child feels accepted, the skilled worker can unobtrusively give guidance and thereby help to release self expression If we are to promote the welfare of girls we must individually and collectively continue to work toward the creation of social conditions that will afford opportunities for everyone to live a good life in a good community." Among the many legacies that have been left to the Big Sister Association was a substantial one received in 1945. When Edna M. Byrne — energetic chairman of the committee that established the Girls' Club at 21 Carlton Street in 1918 —died, the Association was given $5,000.00 to establish the "Ellen S. Bates Joy Blossom Fund" in memory of a New York philanthropist to whom Mrs. Byrne was at one time companion. A further gift from her estate was added to the fund for a total of $17,000.00. The funds were to be invested, and the interest used to "help any girl who may require assistance while ill or crippled". Publication of a quarterly newsletter was begun in 1945, as a means of keeping the membership informed about important events happening within the Association and the community. In addition to news of circle events and agency plans each issue featured an article on a youth-related subject. Urged by Helen Robertson, the editorial committee, early in 1947 made a survey of women's residences in Toronto, in order to determine the kind and amount of accommodation available to 16 and 17 year old girls. Over the byline of the editor, the June issue of the newsletter carried an article entitled, "Toronto needs a residence for teenage working girls." It stated that, "Greater Toronto, with a population of some 950,000 persons, has six residences where a working girl may live if she is fortunate enough to get a room. These homes accommodate fewer than 550 girls and women, all told, at rates that scale from $5.50 to $10.50 per week for room and board. Elm House, the Y.W.C.A. residence, accommodates 90 permanent guests. Willard Hall, operated by the Women's Christian Temperance Union, has space for 115; Sherbourne

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House Club 180; Barbara House 30; Georgina House 72 and the Catholic Girls' Club 34. The United Church House on Jarvis Street is able to house a number of business women but does not cater to the teenage girl. The age range in the majority of residences is 18 to 25 or 30. Elm House and Willard Hall are the only homes to which 16's and 17's are admitted, and the number of junior girls in the two houses is very small in proportion to the total number accommodated. The reason for lack of junior accommodation is the absence of any but casual supervision provided in any facility There is a crying need for more accommodation for the teenage working girl on a modest salary, in pleasant surroundings where she will have companionship of other girls of her age." By 1955 Toronto's population had grown to almost 1,250,000 and only one small specialized residence with accommodation for eight or nine girls had been added to the list reported in 1947. By comparison the need for protective living accommodation for young working teenagers living away from home was even less adequate than it had been ten years earlier. Under the leadership of Helen Robertson the Big Sister Association outgrew the friendly probation service which provided girls from the juvenile court with a volunteer Big Sister. Gradually, with full approval of the Board of Councillors the Association began to provide a professional counselling service with a focus on recreation and group or club activities that were designed to prevent juvenile delinquency. Except in a few isolated instances, volunteers no longer maintained personal relationships with Little Sisters. But the lines of communication between the office and the circles were always open, and the torch lit by Judge Starr for the first Big Sisters continued to burn brightly. In 1945 members of Central Circle, because of their sincere admiration of Helen Robertson's skills, changed the name of their group to Helen Robertson Circle. When she tendered her resignation as general secretary in June 1947, after 20 years of fjervice with the Association, and announced her retirement because of ill health, the Helen Robertson Big Sisters elected her an honorary member of their circle. In her 80's now, she retains a lively interest in the programmes offered by the agency, and a warm friendship for members of the Association.

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Women working together for something they believe in! If we are to promote the welfare of youth we must continue to work toward the creation of social conditions that will afford opportunities for everyone to live a good life in a good community. . . . Helen Robertson, Big Sister Association Annual Report 1945

By 1948 more emphasis was being placed on individual counselling of girls between the ages of eight and eighteen. The group casework programme received less attention. Women of the Association no longer had personal contact with the girls. A number derived satisfaction from serving on the Board of Councillors, or Association committees. The majority met with their circle members to plan and work on various fund-raising schemes to support the scholarship and other practical aid funds. There were garden parties, teas, fashion shows, theatre nights and bridges sponsored by one circle or another, and as they worked together to ensure the success of each undertaking, they found that the bond of friendship became strong and lasting. Exercise of the rule of sponsorship by a member ensured a welcome to any newcomer. By the same token, each new Big Sister, caught up in the enthusiasm of the group, gave of her time and talents to promote the cause of youth, thereby proving her worth to her associates. Working together for something they believed in, with an occasional pause for a cup of tea and friendly conversation, sharing a common concern for the welfare of disadvantaged children became a habit, almost a way of life. Women were proud to acknowledge that they were Big Sisters, as demonstrated at the 1948 annual meeting. Held as a luncheon at the King Edward Hotel it drew a record attendance from among the 325 women whose names appeared on the membership roster. The cost of the luncheon was $1.50 per person.

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Under the direction of a new general secretary, circle budgets were synchronized so that Board, staff and circles knew in advance the amount of funds that would be available for scholarships, camp holidays and Christmas treats, and could plan their spending intelligently. That the scholarship programme was extremely popular with service clubs and other sponsors outside the Association was plainly evident as the number and size of the donations increased. Gifts to the fund, including those of circles amounted to $5,165.00 in 1949, making it possible for 105 girls to continue their education. When an announcement was made by the Canadian Education Association that a girl, who had been enabled to complete her secondary school education through grade 13, with the assistance of the scholarship fund, was awarded a summer vacation in England, the story of her success rang pleasantly in the ears of members of the scholarship committee. She had attained ten firsts in her senior matriculation year, and won three scholarships which entitled her to four years tuition at Victoria College, University of Toronto. Gratified by the public's response to their scholarship programme, they expressed their satisfaction with the progress made in the planned campaign of delinquency prevention, citing the scheme for educational assistance as an important factor in its success. In 1949, expenditures from Association funds, including scholarships, totalled more than $8,000.00. Clients, staff and Big Sisters alike had come to regard 20 Wellesley Street as a permanent base of operations for the agency. The Board of Directors met there. For the groups who held regular club meetings in the building horizons were broadened. Girls learned the basics of good grooming, to sew, shop wisely for clothing, and under the guidance of a counsellor began to derive a sense of personal satisfaction from relationships with their peers. But when the proposed route of the Yonge Street subway was announced Big Sisters began to feel uneasy. Because of its location the Wellesley Street premises could be expropriated. The owner's notice to vacate by 31 March 1950 left them a limited amount of time in which to find new quarters. To add to their dilemma the general secretary found it necessary to resign, making it necessary for the Board of Councillors to find a replacement.

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Members of the Board were debating the wisdom of renting another house when a seemingly attractive property, with 45' 5" frontage and 145' depth, at 22 Charles Street East became available for purchase. The Big Sisters decided to purchase it. Although they had bought a new car for the counselling staff in the spring of 1949, the formidable sum of $21,000.00 did not alter their intention. A legacy of $3,500.00 from the estate of Mrs. A.E. Ames, affectionately known to Big Sisters as "fairy godmother", provided a nucleus of funds. Circles depleted bank accounts, and friends added donations to make up the $10,000.00 initial payment. A first mortgage at 5 percent was obtained for the balance of $11,000.00. The Community Chest, which had replaced the former Federation for Community Service, agreed to finance the heating and insurance. An all Association evening of music at Eaton Auditorium netted a further $1,100.00. Details of purchase were arranged in March and the deadline for removal from 20 Wellesley Street was delayed, with the consent of the owner, while the building was made ready for occupation. In May, the Big Sisters moved to 22 Charles Street East, with little evidence of disruption of service. Forty girls were placed in summer camps, or sent to Holiday House on Centre Island, for a vacation. The Association held a housewarming party for members and friends in November, and, admonished by Mildred Warwick, the Board of Directors ruled that staff members might smoke in the staff room at lunch and the tea hour.

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The advent of Mary Lugsdin The child, for the full and harmonious development of his personality needs love and understanding . . . . .. The Social Committee of the General Assembly of the United Nations, Rights of the Child , 1959

Pleasant, soft- spoken, friendly, the woman who joined the staff as general secretary 1 July 1951, quickly won the respect and admiration of those Big Sisters with whom she became associated. The pattern of service which had changed again during the years from 1912 underwent further transformation with the advent of Mary Lugsdin. Quietly, almost unnoticeably at first, the role of the Big Sister changed too, as circle and Board members became more closely involved in policy decisions. The image, projected in earlier days, of gentle ladies, in splendid hats, partaking of tea and cucumber sandwiches at Big Sister fund-raising functions began to fade, and in substitution emerged a profile of intelligent women, well-informed about community affairs, familiar with the details of the service they sponsored. In 1959 more than 100 Big Sisters served on Association committees. Several were encouraged to accept appointments to Boards of other youth agencies. The Association's position with the United Community Fund was enhanced because of the calibre of the Big Sister volunteers who served on planning, budget, goal-setting committees, and acted as canvassers as well during the annual fund raising campaigns. Guided by a director imbued with a vision of broader, more total service to youth, the agency attracted professional personnel with special skills who were challenged by the seriousness of the problems. "We've come to recognize that girls are not saved with money alone," one Board member observed. "We know girls need the love and sympathy and guidance our counsellors are prepared to give them as they try to work out their adolescent difficulties."

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The girls were no longer referred to as "Little Sisters". Instead, they became "clients of the service". Other former customs changed also. Although clothing appropriate for teenage girls was welcomed gratefully, and mothers of teenage daughters were generous donors, used clothing that must be cut down to fit girls in need was no longer acceptable. When received, such garments were sold and the proceeds used to purchase clothes more suited to the needs of teenaged girls. With the approval of the Board of Directors, the minimum monthly allowance to school girls was raised from $2.00 to a more realistic $5.00, with a maximum set at $15.00. Funds for scholarships had become more readily available from the Board of Education, service clubs and other sources for girls who required financial help only. In consequence, by 1956 the Big Sister scholarship programme changed to one of assistance based on the need of the school girl rather than her ability to obtain good grades. Under the new policy a girl received a bursary only as a part of a total counselling plan to help her resolve personal difficulties. Casework became more intensive as serious problems were recognized. The new general secretary had scarcely learned the names of members of her Board of Directors when the Association was asked by the Community Chest to consider amalgamation with the Big Brother Movement. Members of the Boards of both agencies met with representatives from the Toronto Welfare Council1 to study the advantages and disadvantages of such a union, and again, as they had done in 1923, both organizations agreed that "they did not see their clients or the community as benefitting in terms of improvement of service or economic savings from the merger". The services were distinctly separate in their approach to the problems of youth. In the best interests of the adolescents served, each agency must retain its own identity. A positive recommendation that emerged from the conference advised "that the Toronto Welfare Council set up a proper committee as early as possible to study and analyze the total services for youth in the community, and make recommendations regarding attainment of an adequate community-wide youth services programme".

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34 Huntley Street, Big Sister Association administrative office and home of Huntley Youth Services While perceptive counsellors strove to serve the needs of the girls who came to the Charles Street office for help, a diligent House Committee endeavoured, on a limited budget, to keep the new premises in good order. The dilapidated steps that led to the front entrance had to be replaced in 1952, and members of the committee recommended that the exterior of the house be painted. But before the funds for this improvement became available further expenditure was considered futile. By the spring of 1953 layers of dust were removed daily from desks and floors because of subway construction. The constant thud of the pile drivers caused frayed nerves and short tempers. When announcement was made that the city intended to expropriate their property, Big Sisters willingly assumed the task of finding

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a more suitable location somewhat farther removed from the new transportation line, and staff members breathed a sigh of relief. Members of the Board of Directors met in September to learn that negotiations with city officials had been completed by the committee appointed to act on their behalf. A cheque for the expropriation price of $26,000.00 had been received, and a property at 34 Huntley Street purchased for $27,500.00. Having made a profit of $5,000.00 on the sale of the Charles Street East house, the Big Sisters were able to pay $22,500.00 in cash for the new premises. They assumed a mortgage of $5,000.00 with interest at 6 percent. Again, the Community Chest agreed to pay for certain immediate expenses. All capital improvements were, of course, the responsibility of the Big Sisters. On 14 October 1953, less than three weeks after Board ratification of the transactions, the Big Sisters moved to 34 Huntley Street. Enthusiastic volunteers set to work to create an effect of casual comfort and warm welcome within the gray building that became known as Big Sister House to the young people who kept appointments with counsellors. It was a project that required months of planning and concentrated effort. The members of Hope Page and Margaret Scott circles rubbed down and reflnished chairs, tables, and chests rescued from Big Sister attics. Women from other circles made curtains, cushions, and lampshades. Differences of opinion that occurred, occasionally, as women worked feverishly to make the rooms attractive, were forgotten when they were able to see the effect produced by their labours. Funds for furnishing the room that served both as Board Room and office for the general secretary were donated by the Big Sisters' very good friend, Mr. C.F. Basil Tippet and included a William Winter painting of three young ballet students, entitled, "The Three Dancers". In the words of Basil Tippet, "A Board Room is a public relations place, and must portray to the public a positive image of the Association and the service it sponsors." From her hospital bed, late in 1956, a dying president, Mrs. Milton B. (Alice) Hastings, asked that the funds used for the gift she would receive as retiring leader purchase a second William Winter painting to be hung in the clients' waiting room.

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Other gifts included a pewter tea service, donated by members of Moore Park Circle, for use at Board of Directors' luncheons. A pewter bowl, to be placed on the table in the reception hall, was given by members of HopePage Circle and filled each week with fresh flowers in memory of one of their members. Many others made individual contributions. Although fire protection costs amounted to more than $3,000.00, the Big Sisters were able to redeem their mortgage in 1956, when government bonds, held by circles, were cashed to provide a portion of the funds. The mortgage-burning ceremony which took place at the annual meeting 11 February 1956, left members with a feeling of pride of possession. Free of encumbrance, 34 Huntley Street was the property of the Big Sister Association. At Christmas time, although the house was not completely furnished, a tree was set up and trimmed with tinsel and candy canes. The rooms were strung with cedar rope for the first Christmas party in the new premises. Instead of personal gifts, chosen by staffer volunteers, miniature boxes containing small amounts of money were hung on the tree for the girls who were clients of the service. For many deprived children a dollar or two to spend on family gifts was a most useful present. By 1955, the renovations to the Huntley Street house were completed. The rooms were attractive and home-like when 200 members and friends of the Association attended Open House on 25 May. The pewter tea service graced the Board room table. Cookies and cakes from the Big Sister kitchens were offered the guests. A few weeks later a client who had no family announced her approaching marriage. Volunteers' emotions were stirred, and their hearts were warm as they worked with staff to sew a white dress and bridal veil, and contributed suitable refreshments for the wedding reception that took place in the board room. From year to year the Big Sisters received unsolicited sums, small and larger, usually earmarked for the camp and scholarship funds, from any number of sources. Girls at Havergal College, upon hearing about the Big Sister scholarship plan, donated the proceeds of a fudge sale. A contribution was made by the bridge-playing wives of a Barber Shop String Quartet. $1,000.00 to establish the Caroline Wright scholarship was given in her memory by her husband. The Board of Trade made annual donations. In 1952, the scholarship programme cost

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$7,000.00, and allowed 104 girls to continue their education through secondary school. It was made possible by donations such as these, augmented by funds from the circles. The theory began to be whispered among members, hesitantly at first, and then spoken aloud. The Big Sisters would always be able to find the funds to finance worthwhile projects that would promote the welfare of youth. That theory would soon be put to the test.

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An extension of service There is an urgency of time in which to work with young people. .. .Mary Lugsdin, Annual Report 1956

The shortage of supervised residence accommodation in 1945 for teenage girls in Toronto, as pointed out in a Big Sister survey, was disturbing to those concerned about the welfare of adolescents. But at that point in time the Board of Councillors did not acknowledge any responsibility for improvement of the condition. Ten years later, when it was learned that only one small residence had been added to the number available earlier to provide for a larger youth population, some thoughtful Big Sisters began to ask what they, as an organization concerned about the welfare of youth, should do to alleviate a critical situation. In Board meetings Big Sisters deplored the lack of protective living accommodation for young working teenagers who could not live at home; stressed the need for more psychiatric service and consultation, more counselling service throughout Metropolitan Toronto for young people to the age of 21. Professional staff discussed the urgency of the need of living accommodation for certain clients known to them, together with the feasibility of experimenting in a small way with some kind of group living. Several Big Sisters and a staff member met with a similar committee from Protestant Children's Homes1 to explore the possibility of the two agencies working together on an experimental project that would subsidize boarding homes to meet the needs of some girls. After consideration, it was mutually agreed that responsibility for the organization and financing of such an undertaking should rest with the Big Sisters. When the need for living accommodation grew more urgent, the Association began to subsidize one boarding home where three beds were maintained constantly in order that accommodation would be available when needed.

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Meanwhile, members of Hill and Lawrence Park Circles, in an effort to raise funds for an increased practical aid budget, acted as saleswomen in a two-day shopping project at Creeds' fashionable shop on Bloor Street. And at the same time, the chairman of the house committee, endeavouring to protect the freshly painted exterior of the Huntley Street house, sought Board permission to purchase a stuffed owl to be placed on the roof to frighten the pigeons who roosted there. In accordance with their expressed intention of providing the best possible professional service to young girls, the Board of the Big Sister Association, in the spring of 1956, established a service policy committee to study service needs. Reporting to the Association at the annual meeting in February 1956, Mary Lugsdin stressed the community's need for therapeutic group homes. "There is an urgency of time," she observed, "in which to work with young people. Our concern is that there may come a moment when teenagers are ready to use help, and if it is not available the moment passes and we may never have as good a chance again." More and more often staff were faced with the futility of trying to counsel some girls without first providing them with a safe place in which to live. Frequently, it was necessary to minister to the physical needs of a girl before she could benefit from counselling. Poor living habits, badly neglected teeth, lack of appropriate clothing added to the problems of many young adolescents. Funds contributed by circles were increased, and quickly spent on dental and medical care. A clothing shop service to girls, opened in a basement room on the day the mortgage on 34 Huntley Street was burned, offered good clothing donated by mothers of teenage daughters. A year later it became "The Teen Shop", its shelves and racks stocked with used and new articles of clothing. Kits for careful grooming, soap and cosmetics were available. Girls paid a nominal sum for articles purchased, and when necessary received a clothing allowance from the fund for practical aid for the purpose. The shop was seen as a learning experience for the young people who used it. Big Sisters who formed the shop committee spent many hours in budgeting funds for articles of new clothing, shopping, mending and pressing used garments. Many summer skirts and blouses were made by Big Sisters, and delighted the girls who bought them. To a young person without funds, and suitable clothes to

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give her the self-confidence she needed in order to find a job, the Teen Shop was an almost unbelievable happy surprise. The contribution of the clothing committee to the wellbeing of the young people thus served was tangible evidence of Big Sister caring. As the extent and worth of the service became more broadly known people from other committees sought information about the agency. In the autumn of 1957 a Burmese social worker spent a day with staff and board members at Big Sister House gleaning information about the service to take back to her country. A group of women from Niagara Falls, Ontario, held consultations at 34 Huntley Street in relation to the establishment of a Big Sister Association in their city. A larger number of girls from middle class homes used the service as parents began to find it possible to ask for counselling help for their children. Recipients of bursary assistance numbered only 63 in 1957. Jobless girls were without employment because of personal problems rather than a scarcity of opportunities. Whenever possible, counsellors worked with both parents and child. In 1957, the Service Policy Committee, studying the need for specialized living accommodation, recommended that the Board of Directors take some appropriate action to improve the definite limitations to effectiveness of counselling for girls who must live apart from their families. The Board complied by appointing a member of that committee as chairman of a Residence Research Committee that would study the details of a plan for a Big Sister Association living facility for girls. In Toronto, growing up was becoming a difficult and lonely struggle for many young people. The Research Committee met in members' homes, and over luncheon provided by the hostess, discussed practical information gleaned at first hand from those residences already established in Toronto, listened to factual reports of other similar projects. They pored over budget figures and debated the advantages of rental versus purchase. While certain Big Sisters wondered, privately, whether such a gigantic project should be undertaken, application was made for approval of the Big Sister Association as a charitable organiza-

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Mrs. J. Keiller Mackay, (now Mrs. C.B. Stewart) Patroness, Big Sister Association, and William R. Allen, Chairman, Metropolitan Toronto, among the guests at a reception at the Inn on the Park, on a November Sunday in 1963, to mark the launching of a Big Sister Association campaign for funds for the Madison Avenue Group Home

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tion. If accepted, the Association would be eligible for government subsidy for the proposed residence. A special fund for "Advance Gifts for Residence" was set up toward the end of the year, and the Board agreed that memorial funds, unless otherwise designated, would be placed in this fund. In January 1959, the Board of Directors formally approved the residence plan, and committed the Association to an extension of its service to girls by provision of some therapeutic living accommodation. Before the Board disbanded for the summer months word had been received from the Provincial Director of Welfare that the Big Sister Association was approved as a charitable organization, and would qualify for financial subsidy when the proposed residence became a reality. Three members of the Service Policy Committee participated in the "Survey of Toronto Institutions for Children and Youth", sponsored by the Social Planning Council and completed in 1959. When the survey findings were published the recommendations regarding youth strengthened the Association's intention to set up a small residence. The survey recommended "that agencies such as Children's Aid Societies, Protestant Children's Homes, Big Brothers and Big Sisters consider development of group home programmes to serve those teenage boys and girls living outside their own homes, and while not seriously maladjusted need a period of supervision prior to moving out into the community to live independently." The Association's responsibility seemed clear. Encouraged by the recommendations contained in the report, the Big Sisters presented their plans for a Group Home to the Social Planning Council's Institutional Implementation Committee, and advised the United Community Fund, which succeeded the Community Chest in 1957, that they had set a tentative date of 1962 for the opening of their residence. The success of their plans would be dependent on receipt of sufficient capital funds, employment of added staff, and assurance that the United Fund would be able to provide maintenance. "Developing services for youth has never been more necessary," Mary Lugsdin observed, in her report to the Association annual meeting. "Not only because of the exploding teenage population, nor because of the struggle many young people have in solving their practical difficulties, but because so many who are troubled need a great deal of help in achieving a feeling of self-worth, and a sense of direction before they can get on with living."

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Counsellors were seeing a larger number of "over 16" girls, often without funds or a job, some without real or substitute homes. The number of beds in the subsidized boarding home was not adequate for the need. To find suitable accommodation for angry, rebellious girls was almost impossible. Many operators of boarding homes preferred not to accept teenagers. In the words of Mary Lugsdin, problems were more complex and critical, painful evidence of the pressures of the fast-paced times. "It seems more difficult," she said, "for parents to be parents and for children to grow up in a world that is changing so much so fast. In their outright rebellion young people are acting out the anger and frustration they feel when their growing-up drive, meeting the lessening of parental control at a time when they need it most, conflict with a world that is rushing them toward independence before they are ready for it." While providing a residence for young girls was the most pressing issue at this time, the Big Sisters dealt with other issues as well. In the spring of 1960 a woman, who had been a client 21 years earlier, visited Big Sister House to repay an amount of $350.00 which had made it possible for her to complete a secretarial course. She asked that her cheque be used to help another girl in the same way.She was one of several clients who, over the years, have endeavoured to repay the Association in some measure for assistance received. The Big Sister Association, on the other hand, has never at any time asked for payment for service to clients. When Mr. C.F. Basil Tippet, good friend and adviser to the Big Sister Association, died in 1959, members of Lawrence Park Circle contributed the sum of $1,000.00 to establish a memorial fund in his memory. A legacy from his estate was added, and the total amount used for advanced education bursaries. In their ongoing concern about conditions in the new maximum security building opened at the Gait Training School, the purported lack of trained staff, and insufficient psychiatric treatment, Big Sisters who were members of the Penal Reform for Women Joint Committee encouraged 18 Board members to visit the school. It was hoped that Big Sister opinion would strengthen the Penal Reform Committee appeal for improvement of conditions. For those Big Sisters who made the journey to Gait the visit was an enlightening one.

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Early in 1961, almost 50 years after the first Big Sister Committee was organized, the Association decided to withdraw its membership in the Local Council of Women "because the aims of that organization no longer furthered the constitutional purpose of the Big Sister Association". Association with Local Council Board members had been a pleasant and useful experience through the years for presidents of the Big Sister Association. But the aims of the Local Council no longer coincided with those of the Big Sisters, and it was sometimes inconvenient for a president to attend the Local Council meetings. With residence plans to be finalized, and a campaign for funds to be arranged, the Board of Directors felt strongly that the energies of every member of the Association must be concentrated on fulfillment of their proposed undertaking. Members of the Board at the same time agreed that the term patroness, in relation to their Association, was outmoded, and should be removed from the Big Sister roster. Traditionally, the wife of the lieutenant-governor of the province was designated patroness. Henceforth, she would be invited to become an associate member of the Association. The times were changing.

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138 Madison There are agencies to help a girl find accommodation, a job and spare-time activities. These services are of little use to her if she is too miserable to care, too bitter to accept help, too confused to know what she wants. She moves from room to room and from job to job. She makes mistakes repeatedly because she cannot fit in anywhere long enough to work out a new approach to life. .. . from brochure describing proposed extension of service, used in capital campaign for residence funds.

In their first enthusiasm Big Sisters envisaged opening their group home, or residence in 1962, but two years passed before a suitable house was purchased. Several factors contributed to the delay. Operating expenses of the counselling service exceeded United Fund budget allotments, and the deficit had to be met from other sources. In 1961, for the first time in the history of the Association, capital funds were used for that purpose. In consequence the feasibility of the group home project was questioned and carefully reconsidered before the decision to proceed was confirmed. A descriptive brief was submitted to the Social Planning Council and the United Community Fund for approval of the plans, and to the Association membership for thoughtful understanding. Included was a budget for estimated annual operation expenses meticulously calculated to the last dollar. In determining the goal of the capital campaign, the Association must ask for sufficient funds to purchase a house, renovate, furnish and maintain it for an initial three year period before the United Community Fund assumed responsibility for operation. Approval by the United Community Fund was delayed pending publication of the Socal Planning Council's report of their Study of Needs and Resources for Children and Youth in Metropolitan Toronto. But in September 1963 permission was given for a public campaign to be launched in the early months of 1964.

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Madison - Big Sister Association first Group Home for girls 15 to 21 formally opened November 1965 Some Big Sisters experienced moments of uneasiness when they learned that the campaign goal had been set at $300,000.00. Their record as fund-raisers was excellent, but never during the years of the existence of the Association had anyone considered fund-raising in terms of a six figure total. Many believed that, at a time when adolescents were, more and more often, acting out their anger and frustration in ways that irritated their elders, a campaign to raise funds for living accommodation for teenage girls could have considerably less appeal for the public than other more sympathetic causes. Was it possible to conduct a successful drive for funds without professional assistance? Could they afford the added cost? When the Men's Advisory Council, established in November 1962, met with members of the Executive and Residence Com-

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mittees to discuss the matter the men foresaw no difficulty in attaining the goal. They encouraged the Big Sisters to enlist their members as canvassers rather than seek the help of professionals. An important point was stressed by Mr. Harold Rea. The Association must be approached first, he said. If the Big Sisters could raise one-third of the total within their organization, and thus reduce the amount sought from the general public to $200,000.00, they would, very positively, demonstrate their faith in the project. Friends, well-wishers, the subscribing public would be encouraged to invest their dollars also. A substantial donation by each of more than 300 circle women would prove in a very tangible way the sincerity of the Big Sisters and their belief in the need of the special accommodation service for which they sought public assistance. It was a moment of truth. In the minds of some Big Sisters it was a time for the performance of a miracle. A few women shook their heads in protest, declared the undertaking too ambitious, and ultimately resigned from the Association. Many others gave personal cheques in amounts larger than they had believed they could afford, or pledged their giving over a three year period. In addition they offered lists of possible donors to the campaign chairman, and many volunteered to act as canvassers. By the time the public campaign was launched the residence fund balance was large enough to convince possible subscribers of both the worth of the undertaking, and the sincerity of the Big Sisters. On a Sunday afternoon inNovember 1963, the Association held a rally at the Inn on the Park to announce the campaign plans, bolster the confidence of any doubting member, and strengthen the bonds of friendship that existed among them. The Huntley Street house buzzed with excitement as volunteers concerned themselves with the details of the drive for funds, searched for an appropriate property, and completed the Association canvass. Members of the Finance Committee pared general expenses to the bone to keep the budget deficit at a minimum, and met with the Men's Advisory Council to seek guidance in dealing with the problem of adequate financing of the counselling service. The professional staff, meanwhile, endeavoured to maintain a "business as usual" programme. In late afternoons teenage girls kept appointments with caseworkers. At midweek, as many as 30 girls gathered with counsellors to partake of Wednesday Night Supper, a traditional

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phase of the casework programme. When it was initiated members of the professional staff shared food shopping and preparation tasks. In 1964, in spite of other heavy commitments, volunteers began to relieve the counsellors of the burden of cooking and kitchen duty. The public campaign for residence funds was launched in February 1964, and on 29 April a property at 138 Madison Avenue, originally owned by the late Mr. Percy Gardiner, was purchased for the sum of $91,000.00. Mr. Gordon Armstrong, appointed honorary legal counsel to the Big Sister Association in 1962, and a member of the Men's Advisory Council, supervised the details of the transaction. The Big Sisters took possession on 15 June. Although a number of individual donors, Big Sisters and friends pledged their giving over a three-year period, by 1965 a total of more than $266,600.00 had been received from all sources. A substantial increase in the expected provincial grant toward the cost of the house had added to the total of funds received, and made it possible for members of the Residence Committee to examine reconstruction and renovation costs calmly. Preparations for occupancy as a group home were set in motion immediately. An architect assumed responsibility for the changes necessary to meet the requirements of the Children's Institutional Act, and municipal regulations for fire and health protection. The house lent itself to achievement of a simple, homelike atmosphere. The sitting rooms were comfortably large, the main hall and dining room rich with wood panelling. Again, as was the case when the Huntley Street property was acquired members and friends offered good used furniture appropriate to the main floor rooms, necessitating the acquisition of only a few new articles. A complete suite from the home of the late Mrs. Albert Matthews furnished the dining room. Simple uniform pieces were purchased for the bedrooms. Variety, interest and individuality was provided through the skilful use of colour and fabric in decoration. Members, friends, foundations and business firms donated money, time, labour, advice and gifts to make 138 Madison a comfortable residence for the girls who would for a time call it home. Less than $45,000.00 of the $50,000.00 allotted for the purpose was spent on renovations and furnishings.

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Four girls were admitted to 138 Madison in June 1965, almost ten years after the Board and staff of the Association began to voice serious concern about the lack of living accommodation for girls with special problems. In November, two days of formal Open House were held in order that members and friends, representatives from foundations, municipal and welfare organizations might see what had been accomplished with the funds that had been made available. The vision of a few, com bined with endless hours of planning and concentrated effort on the part of many had produced a home where a dozen girls of 15 or 16, too emotionally upset to remain in their own homes, could live together while trying to resolve their particular difficulties. To state that the venture was an immediate success, or that the girls who moved into the home became well-adjusted young women in a few brief weeks, would be untrue. Struggling to find an identity and values to live by, they were often angry, hostile, resistant to any counselling. Although a number of adolescents known to the Counselling Service were in need of a group living experience it was not possible to fill the house to capacity with rebellious young people previously unknown to each other. In the autumn three others were admitted to join the first four. At the end of 1966 ten girls called 138 Madison home. Two fine young people, with great potential, Jamie and Gibson Bailey, became houseparents in residence in July 1966, replacing the first parents who found the constant day by day responsibility of caring for troubled teenagers too great a strain on health. Such was their enthusiasm for the job that they gave up their condominium apartment and disposed of their furniture in order to be real parents to the girls in their care. Sincere in their desire to help the new-found family with their growing-up problems, they strove to maintain a home-like atmosphere in the house, showed them kindness and affection to which they were largely unaccustomed. But at the end of a year they found the pressures too great, and like their predecessors decided they must resign. At the end of 1966, the Board of Directors agreed to engage a consultant, with institutional experience, to determine whether the goals set were being achieved, and make recommendations for improvement of the service offered in the residence. The early operation of the home was difficult because it was a unique service. It was the first residence of its kind in Metropolitan

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Toronto, the first in the whole of Canada as well. Following the study a new staffing plan evolved. After careful consideration of the effect on the girls living in the residence, three housemothers were engaged to work in eight-hour shifts. They replaced the former houseparents. The plan seemed to work well. During the 12 years that have passed since the first girls were admitted to 138 Madison, there have been crises that at times tested the skills and dedication of the staff to the limit in their resolution. But professional confidentiality makes mention of specific incidents impossible. A sincere belief in the potential worth of every young person, regardless of youth's sometimes doubtful image, has made it possible for the house at 138 Madison to provide a wholesome living experience for many of the young people who have participated in the carefully planned programme. Sometimes girls arrive with their most treasured possessions in their arms, a ragged doll, a teddy bear, a blanket saved from babyhood, and other more sophisticated articles to be arranged on bed or chest or desk in a room usually shared with one or two others. A friendly greeting from the staff person on duty, the cheeriness of the fire that burns on the hearth in the sitting room on a dull afternoon are as comforting as the plump floor cushions or the much-used sofa. The good smell of supper being prepared in the kitchen may not bring a girl out of herself easily and help her to forget her frustrations and inadequacies, but because warmth and kindness are there when she comes in each day from school or work, she may find her tensions relaxing. The feeling of belonging, being wanted and loved may begin to have meaning for her. Length of stay at 138 Madison varies, and is based on a girl's need, and her ability to benefit from the experience. In making the group home service possible to girls it has been the hope of the Big Sisters that "through helpful human relationships each girl at 138 Madison would find meaning in living, and that inner security essential to stability, happiness and a purposeful adult life".

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16

The Thrift Shop The highest of distinctions is service to others. . . . the late King George VI

While the Finance Committee finalized plans for the residence fund campaign another group of Big Sisters began to search for a continuing project that would assure the Association of a minimum annual income of $15,000.00 for its practical aid budget, and so relieve some of the pressure being placed on circles to raise an increasing number of dollars. In February 1964, the members decided to open a Thrift Shop, staffed and operated by circle members, six days of the week for ten months of the year. Next-to-new clothing and other merchandise, donated by members and friends, would be offered to the public at reasonable prices. After careful study of appropriate areas for location of a shop, accessibility to transportation, and ease of parking, a suitable premises at 1743 Avenue Road was chosen. A lease was signed in October 1964, and enterprising Big Sisters set to work to transform the lower and main floors of the building into a shop. Shelves and racks for clothing were assembled, tables set up for merchandise display, cash registers procured, and telephones installed. Salable goods were accepted from the beginning of November, and four weeks later the shop opened for business. On the morning of 2 December, the women who manned the first shift waited nervously at their posts, watched the clock as the minutes ticked away to the opening hour. Would the public come to buy? Would the Big Sisters and their shop be accepted by residents of the area? The windows displayed a pretty child's dress, a warm coat, ski boots, a woman's suit, a pair of figure skates and other salable articles that might attract the interest of passersby. At ten o'clock the front door was unlocked. One or two women paused to inspect the window casually, and went on their way. A young

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Thrift Shop (external) Big Sister Thrift Shop, 1743 Avenue Road

Thrift Shop (internal) Looking for bargains at the Big Sister Thrift Shop. Opened 2 December 1964

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boy stopped, attracted by the ski boots, opened the door, asked the price and departed. Two women followed him in, and two more. Soon the main floor was buzzing with conversation. The first sale was rung on the cash register, and a second and a third. The boy who had inquired the price of the ski boots returned with his mother. She paid a deposit, and asked that they be held until the father's pay day. A woman bought a standard lamp and carried it home in her arms. By the time the afternoon workers arrived to replace them, the women on the morning shift had forgotten their earlier nervousness about acceptance of their shop in the area, nor was there further doubt. Thirteen years of ready sales and profits are ample evidence of the good will felt toward the Big Sisters by the people who frequent the shop, as well as other merchants who serve residents of the area. Staffed by Big Sisters and friends, entirely dependent on voluntary contributions of goods, the net revenue realized in the first year of functioning was in excess of $20,000.00. Profits vary, but through the years of operation they have consistently exceeded that of the first trial period. The Big Sisters who volunteered to staff the shifts soon developed expertise in punching a cash register. They learned to price articles of merchandise that ranged from formal evening gowns to children's coats, hockey sticks and kitchen utensils, fine china and silver, recognized treasures among the trivia, and greeted each customer with a ready smile. Laughing together over amusing incidents that occur frequently, sharing the excitement and strains of special sale days that attract hordes of customers, women on shift have formed sincere friendships. They have developed a sense of camaraderie that differs from anything experienced in previous work projects. Before the end of the first year it became necessary to lease the upper floor of the building for a "goods on consignment" department where the treasures rather than the trivia are found. Although some 3,000 hours of volunteer time were expended that first year, it became imperative to employ a salaried person to relieve the chairman of some degree of heavy responsibility, and provide continuing daily coordination of effort. Known as The Big Sister Thrift Shop, all three floors of the building have been kept stocked, by members and friends, with a variety of next to new merchandise, through more than a dozen years of successful operation.

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Community appreciation of the shop service is constantly evident. Mothers, with small children, return again and again to purchase warm clothing, skates, or a pretty summer dress. Grandmothers come often, proffer their opinions on prices, examine the clothing racks with sharp, experienced eyes, and part with closely hoarded pension dollars for Christmas toys, children's books, a warm sweater. On Saturday mornings men accompany their wives, or come alone in search of a welltailored suit, a next to new sheepskin coat, a radio, carpentry tools, or a kitchen sink. Their purchases made, they often linger for an hour to browse among the books for weekend reading material. Encouraged by their counsellors, girls who previously used their clothing allowances to purchase articles in the Teen Shop at 34 Huntley Street, began to find suitable wearing apparel in the new Thrift Shop where they discovered more variety and often greater bargains. So successful was the project during the first two years of operation that in January 1967 the Association agreed that major circle fund raising events would be discontinued. Members began to focus their attention and energies on the continuing success of the shop, and thereby guaranteed that substantial funds would be available when needed for practical aid. The shop remained closed during the holiday season until the summer of 1971 when it was seen, by the counselling staff, as a possible learning experience for the girls who were in residence at 138 Madison. When approached, the management committee raised questions about the feasibility of the experiment, but agreed to supply volunteer shift assistance when necessary. Girls living at 138 Madison who were without summer jobs worked as sales staff during July and August under the supervision of a residence worker, aided by volunteer Big Sisters. Each girl learned to operate the cash register. She was given instruction in the display and pricing of salable goods, and received payment for the hours spent in the shop. It was a "learning while earning" experience enjoyed by certain of the girls, tolerated by others. After four successive summers of operation the experiment terminated. Accustomed to shopping early for holiday bargains, fewer customers called in midsummer. Profits from sales were not large enough to warrant expenditures for summer maintenance, and the salaries paid to the girls who

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worked in the shop. In addition, the character and focus of the group at 138 Madison changed as girls moved on to other living arrangements and new girls with different needs settled into the house. The summer plans envisaged for the new residents did not include a shop experience. The project has also served the Association well as a public relations device. From September to June circle members, associate Big Sisters and their friends answer many questions about the youth service sponsored by the Association while they staff the shop in four hour shifts. Friends, neighbours, women from several areas of the city offer clothing in excellent condition, crystal and fine china, and an occasional fur coat, all of which add dollars to the cash register total when sold. If the donor's queries are thoughtful, and sometimes probing, they are regarded as the measure of her interest, and answered accordingly. The Shop is, as it was designed to be, the major source of Association income. Without the dollars that flow from its cash registers each year for practical aid and service extension the professional staff of the agency would be handicapped in their efforts to provide the innovative, in-depth service offered to young people who come to 34 Huntley Street for help. To the volunteers who labour to maintain it as the thriving business it has become, The Shop is a way of life.

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The Nineteen Sixties Youth has always searched for a personal answer to the meaning of life. But possibly never before have young people been more involved — and less understood — in their efforts to find their role in a world that seems to many of them irrelevant to meaningful existence. . . . Mary Lugsdin in Annual Report 1967

The Thrift Shop had begun to enjoy its first flush of success, members of the Residence Committee were coping with plans for installation of fire doors and additional bathrooms at 138 Madison, when the Executive Committee were faced with a new problem, lack of space at Huntley Street. The age limit for girls in the counselling programme had been raised from 18 to 21 in 1960 because of the need to serve older adolescents. While the size of the caseload changed only slightly from year to year, the seriousness of problems demanded more thorough assessment of need, and provision of intensive counselling to those accepted for casework. The frequency and number of interviews increased, and the period of contact between client and counsellor was extended. Consequently, by 1965, the Huntley Stree building had become inadequate for the requirements of the counselling service. The partitioning of one third floor office provided the last extension of space possible in the house. With a student training and field work programme in progress, the addition to the staff team of a residence director, the expected employment of a further caseworker and a necessary increase in staff, every available area was being utilized. Members of the Board of Directors recognized that provision of adequate headquarters facilities was an urgent necessity. Resolution of the dilemma required the combined concentration of the Board and Men's Advisory Council. The suggestion that 34 Huntley Street be sold, because of enhancement in value, and the proceeds used to purchase a larger house was considered briefly, and discarded. Unless an addition to the building proved

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to be an impossibility the Big Sisters were determined to remain at 34 Huntley Street. Its central location, accessibility to transportation, the homelike atmosphere of the house must not be sacrificed. Consultation with their architect assured them that extension of the building into the rear parking lot was possible. A consulting engineer, after careful examination of the structure, concurred in the architect's opinion. The cost was estimated at $50,000.00. Having weathered the $300,000.00 campaign for funds for the Madison Avenue house, the sum of $50,000.00 seemed a realistic figure to the Big Sisters. They agreed that if the Counselling Service, and its supplementary group home facility were to continue to be effective, the addition must be built regardless of cost. In their decision they seemed to be following in the footsteps of earlier Big Sisters who refused to be deterred from their purpose by lack of funds. A rough drawing of suggested plans was produced in March 1966 while the Board pondered ways of financing the project, considered the advisability of assuming a mortgage on the Huntley Street property. With the approval of the City of Toronto Planning Board tenders were called for, and in September a contract for the extension was let at a price of $50,994.00. Designated a Centennial Project to be finished in 1967, it would be financed through a Centennial Fund established for the purpose. Members, friends of the Association, business men, representatives of foundations, caught up in the excitement of plans for Canada's 100th birthday celebration, made sizable donations to the fund. Augmented by other grants, memorial gifts and Thrift Shop profits, the Centennial Fund was adequate to meet the total cost of construction. A three-story addition, approximately 34' x 22', provided a board room suite, with facilities for Association use, a staff room, accountant's office, a modern kitchen and additional rooms for professional caseworkers and student trainees. Although there were temporary inconveniences to staff who continued to work in the building while construction progressed, the extension was completed on schedule. The Board of Directors of Protestant Children's Homes, and other agencies generously offered place for Board conferences during the period of necessary discomfort. For smaller meetings that could be conducted in homes, members packed luncheon sandwiches, and hostesses provided coffee for the Big Sisters who served on committees. Special donations made it possible to

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On a visit to Big Sister House, 34 Huntley Street, in the spring of 1966, Madame Pauline Vanier, widow of His Excellency, Governor General Georges Vanier furnish the new board room immediately. Board tables were purchased with funds from a memorial set up by members of Lawrence Park Circle in memory of Mrs. George W. (Ann) Lawrence, former circle member and a past president of the Association. Other members and friends made further gifts. Foundation funds, notably from the Atkinson and Tippet Foundations, and other donations designated for the purpose, were used to equip other new rooms. Any inconvenience incurred was forgotten when the 23 staff members and students settled into their respective offices. Before the end of centennial year Big Sisters began to use their new board room for committee meetings, and enjoyed the luxury of ten o'clock coffee made in the adjoining kitchenette. Knowledge that the cost of the extension had been met enhanced their pleasure in the new surroundings. The Wednesday night supper programme, designed as a therapeutic device, was suspended during the alterations. When it was revived circle volunteers assumed responsibility, on a rotating basis, for the preparation and service of food for some

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30 to 35 clients and staff, and for kitchen duty on Wednesday evenings. For staff, on duty until nine o'clock, food preparation by volunteers left them free for additional appointments. For the girls being counselled, a hot supper, with a delectable surprise dessert from the kitchen of a Big Sister, was a highlight of the day. The meal relaxed tensions and made it possible for a number to converse enthusiastically with the volunteers who staffed the kitchen. Those Big Sisters who participated in the project felt they were in closer touch with the service because of their brief supper-time contact with the girls. Although the need for therapeutic residential accommodation remained urgent not all beds at 138 Madison were occupied immediately upon opening. Admissions had to be made slowly and carefully in order to minimize the impact of new and sometimes difficult personalities upon the four girls who formed the nucleus group in the house. Meanwhile, members of the counselling staff were forced to find emergency shelter for girls "without a place to sleep" whose explosive problems made them unready for admission to 138 Madison. Temporary accommodation for teenage girls was almost non-existent, and the need so pressing that the Big Sisters decided to establish a facility of their own, while continuing to retain two or three beds for emergency shelter in a boarding home. Using Association funds to finance the experiment, they engaged a North Toronto couple who lived in close proximity to transportation and schools to act as home parents. The man and his wife agreed to provide temporary accommodation in their home for as many as seven or eight girls for whom the agency must find immediate shelter. Because of the gravity of the particular difficulties of the adolescents placed in their home: drugs, attempted suicide, theft charges, the would-be parents had to be assured of the constant support of a senior caseworker available at any hour. Warm, outgoing, resourceful, the couple gave their boarders love and affection, set reasonable standards of behavior for them, and insisted on their observance. It was a short term arrangement for the girls placed there, a few days, a week, a month, two months, and as each one left to return home, to 138 Madison or other living plan, another took her place. The days and nights were more strenuous than she had thought possible, but the home-parent mother became skilful at coping with girls in crises, and earned their respect. When she suffered a a fatal heart attack, they were inconsolable. The programme which worked well for more than three years was continued for a few weeks by the house-

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father and his daughter, with the assistance of a member of the staff of 138 Madison. Eventually, it terminated when the girls were, one by one, helped to make other arrangements. The need for emergency shelter continued, and the staff were hard pressed to find a facility to replace the service phased out because of the death of the house-mother. Operators of boarding houses and parents of families hesitated to share their homes with hard-to-manage, rebellious teenagers. By the autumn of 1971 only hostel beds were available to them. During a period when the Board of Directors were searching for ways and means of meeting an ever growing deficit in the counselling service budget, without curtailing service, the Association was invited by the United Community Fund to review their policy of "no fee for service to clients". It was a policy inherent in the Association from the time of organization. In a society that was growing more affluent, certain agencies in the community found it appropriate to charge a fee for service rendered. A committee of the Big Sister volunteers, after a year of study and consultation with agency staff, recommended that "because of the very nature of the service, counselling for adolescents, the rule of no fee for service to clients be continued". The volunteers involved in the study were emphatic in their conviction that although a fee might increase a sense of responsibility and self respect in parents, payment, no matter how small, would in many instances deter girls seeking professional help. It could only add to any existing alienation between parent and child, and defeat the whole purpose of the service. Financially, it was determined that the cost of administration of a fee for service programme would more than offset the income purpose of establishing it. Backed by the unanimous opinion of the Men's Advisory Council that, in spite of the growing deficit, service must be continued at its former quality level, and that if necessary other funds be recruited to diminish it, the Board of Directors, in March 1968, accepted the recommendation that the no fee for service policy adhered to from the beginning be continued. Firm in their belief that the Association must always seek new ways to improve and extend service, concerned about the escalating need for more youth services, in the spring of 1968 the Board set up a sub-committee to assess service needs and recommend priorities for extension. At about the same time

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members of Gay Venture Circle undertook a study of the use of the volunteer in social agencies. With a 12 year tradition of Wednesday evening reception and kitchen duty at Huntley Street behind them, and deeply concerned about the rising cost of service, they were anxious to establish a new, meaningful volunteer role for themselves. Recommendations from these two studies would, when accepted by the Board of Directors, become a blueprint of the direction the agency's service would take in the immediate future. Although many Big Sisters were saddened by her death, the gesture made in 1969 by friends of the late Mrs. W. Howard (Jane) Paterson in setting up a fund in her memory heartened them. Donations were designated "for assistance in the defrayal of expenses for holiday plans for the residents of 138 Madison". The Holiday Fund was an appropriate memorial to one who had been closely involved in the planning of the group home. The Group Home programme at 138 Madison was developing well. A skilled group worker directed a plan designed to increase each girl's capacity in social relationships, and develop her sense of personal worth. Members of the Residence Committee, and staff alike, were challenged by the pioneer aspects of the exciting project that was emerging. By 1968 a sound group home service for girls over 16 had evolved, and plans for a second facility were being considered. But the times were changing. Youth was becoming more desperate. At 34 Huntley Street experienced and perceptive caseworkers used their best skills to treat the emotional distresses of girls who came from the suburbs, "hippie" Yorkville, upper middle class residential districts, and from the downtown core of the city. Counsellors struggled to inspire the seemingly bored and aimless society dropouts with new values, instil in the emotionally deprived a sense of self-worth. The Board was faced, constantly, with the task of persuading the public, and a portion of the membership, of the need to counsel young people who, to the uninitiated and unsympathetic appeared to be merely self-indulgent, undisciplined youth in revolt against parents and society. Association concern, and that of the community as well was being voiced about the increasing incidence of drug and alcohol use by teenage girls and boys. There was a demand for more informal types of counselling for the young persons involved. Questions were raised around the need for

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two, three and fours years of casework and group home services to make it possible for adolescents, emotionally deprived from birth, to acquire strength to enable them to take their places in the community. The escalating cost of operation of an in-depth counselling service required constant explanation. But the Big Sisters continued to provide the resources to meet the individual needs of the girls who sought help. Their efforts were hampered, temporarily, in 1969, by the resignation of Dr. John Rich, consultant psychiatrist and adviser to the staff team for 13 years. The years of the '60's were challenging, exciting, demanding, and fraught with concern for the numbers of young people beset by problems too difficult to be resolved alone. Parents from all residential areas of the city, from all walks of life found it acceptable to ask for professional help in understanding the behavior of their angry and rebellious children. How to provide service to all who asked for assistance was a dilemma confronting the agency constantly. In reporting to the Association at the annual meeting in February 1960, the president challenged the membership. "Associated together as we are because of our common interest we have been able to meet any emergency or crisis that has occurred through the years. To do all in our power to promote the most adequate service we can devise is the definite and continuing responsibility of every Big Sister." A number of members, in acceptance of the challenge, welcomed appointments to community committees, served on United Fund Allocation and Goal Setting Committees, on the Board of the Social Planning Council, and other agencies. Sheer determination and hard work launched the group home project, made the opening of 138 Madison possible. A less formal atmosphere had begun to prevail among the women who met frequently to consider administrative and service policies. In 1960, for the first time in the history of the Association, a president conducted a meeting of the Board of Directors, without the dignity of a hat. Members of the Board soon followed her example. A spirit of friendly good will developed in the more casual atmosphere. Board discussions were spontaneous and lively. Tensions were eased by the gesture. The women were thoughtful and caring, and sincere in their

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desire to help young people along the road to maturity. It was a time of action. During the period of planning for their group home the Big Sisters invited Mr. Gordon Armstrong to become Honorary Legal Counsel to the Association. The son of an active member of Hill Circle, he has continued his association as advisory consultant since 1962. In 1963, through an amendment to the bylaws, the name of the counselling service was changed to Big Sister Counselling Service, sponsored by the Big Sister Association. Similarly, in 1966, the organization assumed the title of Big Sister Association of Metropolitan Toronto. Feeling strongly that they had a definite contribution to make to the discussions the Big Sisters advised the Social Planning Council of Metropolitan Toronto, in 1965, that they wished to be involved in the discussions about recommendations that evolved from the Council's Study of Needs and Resources of Children and Youth in Metropolitan Toronto. For similar reasons, they presented a brief to the Ontario Legislature's Select Committee on Youth, believing that important remedial legislation might come from the Committee's findings. In their struggle to find ways of meeting the youth needs of the times, they were often plagued by small harassments. Irritations such as the bursting of a boiler at 138 Madison when staff were planning for the first admissions to the residence ruffled the poise, momentarily, of the Big Sisters responsible for the smooth operation of the residential service. There were proud moments too, such as occurred on a day in the spring of 1966 when Madame Pauline Vanier1 paid a visit to Huntley House in order to gain first hand information about the service. Her words of commendation were good to hear. The irritations were minor. The challenges were large. Members of the Board of Directors were wholly in agreement with the content of an article published in the January 1968 issue of the Canadian Medical Journal in which this opinion was voiced. "Understanding of adolescents cannot be achieved simply by extending observations made on children to the adolescent age period, nor can it be achieved by looking upon the adolescent as an adult."

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New roles for Big Sister volunteers Volunteers provide a 'significant adult' for teenagers who do not need to continue in a formal counselling relationship with a trained professional, but rather need someone who is willing to give of their time and who cares about them. . . . Gordon Wolfe in Annual Report 1975

The Study of the Role of the Volunteer in Direct Service, completed in 1970 by members of Gay Venture Circle, recommended that the Big Sister Association develop new roles for its members. The report suggested "employment of a professional director of volunteers, and a sound plan of recruitment, training and supervision, with guidelines and limitations clearly outlined. Any scheme as radical as the involvement of volunteers in direct service required the very careful consideration of a Board of Directors committed to operation of an in-depth counselling service. The concept of a Big Sister-Little Sister relationship as it was known in the first years of the organization was no longer valid. Long since, the theory of "keeping a girl straight", or "sweet and pure" by assigning a Big Sister to be her friend had been discarded in favour of professional counselling that would recognize and deal with a girl's problems skilfully. The times had changed. The cases were more complex. Would a volunteer not add to the confusion of an emotionally upset young person? There were many questions. One point on which everyone agreed was that the success of any volunteer programme would depend to a large extent on the individual's sincerity of purpose, commitment of time and energy, and willingness to accept training and supervision. While members of the Board and staff considered the advantages and hazards of such an undertaking, the possibilities of using members in a one-to-one or groupto-group relationship were tested and retested. Convinced, eventually, of the service enrichment possible through a wellplanned volunteer programme, the Board of Directors, in Sep-

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tember 1972, authorized employment of a professional supervisor of volunteers to assume responsibility for a three-year experiment designed to use Big Sisters in direct service assignments with girls at 34 Huntley Street, and at the 138 Madiso residence. Funds to finance the project were obtained from foundations sympathetic to the idea. Well proven through three trial years, the programme now forms an integral part of the youth service plan. Women, young and not so young, with varied interests and experience in living have, because of their solicitude for the well-being of young people, become Big Sister volunteers. Some are involved in a one-to-one relationship with clients at 34 Huntley Street. Others work with the child care staff at 138 Madison where they are a part of the ongoing therapeutic programme of the house, as tutors, resource people, or deeply caring adults. The Association, which originated as a group whose members worked individually with girls referred from the juvenile court is again using its volunteers in direct service to clients. But the difference between the role of the early Big Sister and that of her counterpart in the '70's is clearly evident. In both eras Big Sisters have projected friendship and a sense of caring for the girls assigned to them. But in the '70's the volunteer, with a background of knowledge about community needs, is especially trained, and constantly supervised by a professional counsellor, in order that in her assignment in a one-to-one relationship with a client she will feel confident in her role, and better able to instil feelings of worth in her client. The agency's first cooperative apartment was made possible through the concentrated efforts of a team of Big Sister volunteers. A two-bedroom flat in s small high rise building was made ready for occupation in June 1973. It was designed to house four girls in need of accommodation that would help them achieve independent living. "Landlords who care," is the well-earned title given the group of Big Sisters who searched for and found the apartment, signed a lease in the name of the Big Sister Association, arranged insurance coverage and banking facilities. An appeal to circle members and friends resulted in donations of furniture, drapes, and kitchen utensils, all of which were moved into the sixth floor apartment without benefit of elevator. The rent is subsidized by the Association fund for

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practical aid in order that girls may be more willing to accept some controls. Paid by the Association, it is collected every second week from the residents. Each tenant must agree to live in the apartment for a minimum period of three months, and may remain not longer than a year. Residents admitted are between the ages of 16 and 20 who have had prior contact with the agency either through the counselling service, or the residence at 138 Madison. Housekeeping duties are shared by the girls on a schedule worked out with the help of the volunteer team. The Landlords Who Care have become very skilful in working with the residents of the cooperative. Regularly each week, group meetings led by a volunteer are held at the apartment. Household arrangements and personal relationships are discussed. Feelings of indecision, loneliness, depression which any girl may experience, are often dispersed by a volunteer quick to notice changes in moods. Because the cooperative provides a stable and consistent setting for girls moving toward independent living, the programme offers a unique helping service for those who use it. During 1975 the cooperative living service was expanded to include an apartment for four boys. In conjunction with Central Toronto Youth Services, a second cooperative for boys was opened in 1975 also. Again, circle members and friends produced furnishings to make the apartments comfortable for the inhabitants. Similar in some respects to the girls' cooperative, they differ in that each is staffed by an experienced counsellor or adviser who lives in the apartment, is available to the boys when needed, and spends time with them on a regular basis. This arrangement makes volunteer commitment to the project unnecessary, and is considered a better plan for boys. Each facility houses four youths. The programme attempts to meet some of the need seen in the community for accommodation for young people for whom residential care is unnecessary, but who must learn how to deal with day-to-day problems in preparation for independent living. Practical aid funds, derived largely from Big Sister Thrift Shop profits, subsidize it. Volunteers serve in many areas. Whether they supervise the girls' cooperative apartment, tutor a resident of 138 Madison in a difficult school subject, work with an evening group at 34 Huntley Street, staff a shift at the Thrift Shop, or sit on a policy

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making committee, they offer willing and cheerful service. Each gives what she can of herself and her resources. All Big Sisters are volunteers in the sense that they give generously of their time, talents and dollars to help troubled adolescents resolve their problems and "get on with the business of living".

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A Residential Treatment Centre Delinquent acts are only symptons of deeper stresses. . . . from General Secretary's Report, Annual Meeting 1945

In their ongoing concern about the obvious need to provide more services for the increasing numbers of troubled youth throughout Metropolitan Toronto, the Board of Directors, in 1968, authorized a service policy sub-committee to assess overall youth needs. Because some anxiety existed in the minds of certain members around the wisdom of offering their agency's comprehensive, in-depth service to the limited number of girls it was possible to serve, when so many others might be helped through a more casual, less costly service, the sub-committee's direction was clear. The ten volunteers who formed the committee would pinpoint those needs specifically within the scope of the Big Sister Counselling Service, list them in order of urgency, and recommend service extension priorities to the Board. A period of intensive study and research included interviews with key personnel in 25 other agencies providing several kinds of service to youth. To the women who participated in the study, the willingness of key people in other agencies to discuss their problems and experiences frankly, was indication of the gravity of the existing situation. In November 1970 a report known as The Robinson Report was presented to, and unanimously approved by the Board of Directors. Recommendations contained in the report included — (a) A second therapeutic residence facility (b) Continuation of a service programme instituted in June 1969, for 12 to 15 year old girls, in which the skills of a community college graduate in social services were used successfully, and further extension of it through employment of a second community college graduate. (c) Provision of more adequate temporary shelter (d) Appointment of a volunteer committee to investigate and pinpoint youth needs in each of the suburbs, and determine the extent of the need for both counselling

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and temporary shelter. Immediate planning for extension of service into the suburban area having the greatest need for youth services. (e) An ongoing plan of publicity for interpretation of the total programme offered by the Big Sister Counselling Service. (f) Service information more readily available to young people. (g) Cooperation by Big Sisters in furthering the coordination of services in the community in the interests of the client, and as a measure of economy. (h) Exploration of the feasibility of changing the name of the counselling service to a title more appropriate for the programme offered. A change in the incorporated name, Big Sister Association of Metropolitan Toronto, was not proposed. It was felt that an organization which for more than 50 years had promoted the welfare of youth had achieved considerable strength that should not be lost. While recording their findings prior to compilation of the statement, the committee discussed ways and means of meeting some of the serious needs. The report included a statement that if sufficient funds and qualified staff could be made available, the Big Sister Association should, ideally, establish "a coeducational youth counselling centre, with a centralized core of experts, and satellite units decentralized, for seriously troubled young people, and those with less difficult problems". It would be a youth centre offering several kinds of counselling, about jobs and careers as well as serious personal problems, a centre complete with group home service, temporary and emergency shelter. In addition, it was agreed that a satellite counselling centre, with temporary shelter housed under one roof, should be set up in each of the suburbs in which the need was proven. At about the time the Robinson Committee began its study, members of the Board of St. Faith's Lodge met with the Board of the Big Sister Association to discuss a proposal for disposition of the funds St. Faith's Board would receive from the province for the Warrendale property. St. Faith's was the agency which had operated the Warrendale institution for emotionally disturbed children at Newmarket, Ontario, prior to its takeover by the provincial government. If carried out, the St. Faith's proposal

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would provide the Big Sister Association with funds to further extend their service through the establishment of the second residential facility recommended later on in the Robinson report. From the beginning, Big Sisters have maintained that funds for worthy projects would be forthcoming if sufficient numbers of people could become interested or involved in the undertakings of the Association. The St. Faith's proposal further confirmed their belief. In their meetings with Big Sisters, members of the Board of St. Faith's Lodge expressed the wish to use the Warrendale funds held in trust by the Province of Ontario "to provide a programme that would give supportive residential care to girls over 16 years of age". In their discussions with the provincial minister of Family and Social Services it was agreed that St. Faith's could provide a service in collaboration with either the Big Sister Association or the Y.W.C. A. of Metropolitan Toronto. Before relinquishing the funds the Ontario government required, from the agency chosen, a detailed statement of a proposal that would be acceptable under the appropriate legislation. Big Sister plans for a second residential facility were immediately outlined in a brief presented to both the provincial government and the Board of St. Faith's. In November 1968, the Association was advised that the St. Faith's Board had passed a resolution to ask the Province of Ontario to approve the division between the Y.W.C.A. and the Big Sister Association of Metropolitan Toronto, of the assets of their Board for the purpose of opening a residence, contingent on government approval of the plans submitted. The Association's share of the funds would be approximately $150,000.00. Mrs. John H. Osier, president of the Board of St. Faith's Lodge met with the Board of Directors of the Big Sister Association in September 1970 to present them with the largest single donation the Association had ever received. In her remarks, Mrs. Osier informed the Big Sisters that when the provincial government assumed responsibility for the operation of Warrendale, their Board expressed a desire to retrieve the private funds invested in the Treatment Centre. It was their feeling that such funds should remain in the private sector of the welfare field. Officials of the provincial government agreed. In studying community needs, members of their Board recognized a lack of

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residential care for girls over 16, and decided to strengthen the work of the agencies they felt had been most successful in that particular field of service, the Y. W.C. A. of Metropolitan Toronto and the Big Sister Association. Fully aware of the responsibility they assumed in guaranteeing the operation of a new therapeutic residential facility, the Big Sisters accepted St. Faith's gift. It would mean an increase in both caseload and counselling staff. New sources of financial support would be needed to ensure ongoing operation. Although the proposed second residence was given extension priority, other recommendations were implemented before it became a reality. Outreach programmes were in progress in some areas as the need for a suburban satellite unit was studied. And in 1975 the Big Sisters were again assessing the quality of the service and the strength of the Association while discussing a new five year plan for service extension. Negotiations with the provincial government in regard to funding, consultations with the appropriate department of the Children's Branch of the Ministry of Welfare, the decision to rent, temporarily, until sufficient extra dollars could be found to purchase or build a facility, the difficulty in locating a suitable house were stumbling blocks that delayed the opening of the second residence until January 1974. The need for the second residence was so pressing by June 1972 that Big Sisters felt they must provide some service quickly. With the approval of the provincial Department of Community and Social Services, they searched for and found a house at 204 St. Clair Avenue West, used previously as a nursing home. The building seemed well suited to their purpose, and although no lease was signed, a rental was paid in order to reserve it while details of the transaction were resolved. The difficulties of financing posed real problems for the Big Sisters. Because of the degree of emotional disturbance anticipated in the girls who would be placed there, the carefully calculated per diem rate was higher than allowed by the Department of Community and Social Services for operation, and would create a maintenance deficit larger than could be carried by the Association. Eventually, because the treatment oriented programme envisaged would require more skilled staff to care for the girls who would live there, the plan was approved for acceptance under the Children's Mental Health Centres Act. Assured that they would

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receive 100 percent of the operating costs of the facility through the Children's Services Branch of the Ministry of Health from 1 April 1974, the Board of Directors made plans to open their residential treatment centre early in the new year. A lease was secured on the 204 St. Clair Avenue West property, and the necessary renovations were begun. On 14 January 1974, nine confused and bewildered girls in the 11 to 15 year age group moved in. The house was warm and welcoming. The rooms were fresh with new paint. Bright curtains hung at the windows. Appetizing smells emanated from the kitchen while young, understanding child care workers helped their charges settle into their rooms and feel comfortable in the strange surroundings. Eighteen months later, in August 1975, the Big Sisters were able to use the funds received in 1970 from the Board of St. Faith's Lodge, supplemented by money from other sources, to purchase and equip an appropriate house at 12 Maynard Avenue. It would replace the St. Clair Avenue facility as a residential treatment centre. Certain necessary changes in construction were made, and under the direction of a volunteer committee the kitchen was equipped, renovations completed while a tolerant landlord agreed to extend the lease on the rented house until the new one was ready for occupancy. The girls moved to 12 Maynard Avenue in June 1976. An Open House reception was held for Big Sisters and their friends, members of the Board of St. Faith's, and representatives from other agencies on an afternoon in September. Through the western windows, the sun cast a golden light over the walls and furnishings as the visitors toured the rooms. They sipped tea, nibbled on home-made cookies, chatted with friends and members of the staff, and were enthusiastic in their praise of the warmly welcoming setting that had been created. With members of the child care staff standing by to lend support, one or two girls in residence felt comfortable enough among the guests to sit at the dining-room table, pour careful cups of tea, and stare, round-eyed, at the ladies who came and went throughout the afternoon. Members of the Board who were present to greet the visitors, and answer their questions, felt a sense of achievement in having provided a permanent home for their Children's Treatment Centre. There was, too, a certain humbleness in their hearts, and a feeling of gratitude to the many friends of the Association who had made accomplishment of the project possible.

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Maynard - Big Sister Association Residential Treatment Centre for girls 11 - 15, formally opened September 1976

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A tribute Responding to the needs of troubled youth in our fastchanging, conflicted society is stimulating and demanding, discouraging and exhilarating. .. . Mary Lugsdin in Annual Report , 1970

While the plans for the Children's Treatment Centre were being finalized other recommendations contained in the Robinson Report were being carried out. In accordance with the suggestion that an ongoing programme of publicity be launched to advertise the purpose of the Big Sister Association more widely, and gain the interest and support of larger numbers of women, a new category of membership was added. Two hundred and thirty-six friends became sustaining Big Sisters in 1971. A similar class, developed in the first years of the Association's existence, had dwindled following the formation of circles, and eventually disappeared. The new group, upon payment of a small annual fee, received all publications and brochures issued by the Association, and were eligible to attend the annual meetings. Although no specific requirements were asked of them, many of these women have become faithful "Thrift Shop Staff. Others are generous in the donation of materials and goods for sale there. Many ardently champion the cause of the Big Sister Association among their friends and acquaintances. Several, by special invitation, have joined one or another of the circles as active members. The sustaining category of membership was changed to "general" in December 1973 when recommended major bylaw changes were adopted following examination of the Association's administrative structure. Under the new bylaws, any person in the community interested in the aims and purpose of the Big Sister Association, whether male of female, may upon payment of the annual fee become a general member and have voting privileges. If willing to undertake a course in training, a general member may serve as a volunteer in direct service. Members in this category add strength to the Association's purpose.

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Under the new administrative structure, the Men's Advisory Council, in existence for more than ten years, was dissolved. The men, who gave so generously of their time and expertise to guide and strengthen the Board in many major decisions, have been elected to the Board of Directors, or become general members of the Association. In either category they continue to offer their special knowledge and give staunch support to the youth service sponsored by the Big Sisters. In the spring of 1973, while a number of recommendations remained to be put into action, the executive director found it necessary to resign. Mary Lugsdin had steered the Big Sister ship with a strong and determined hand for 22 years, her eyes, ears and mind alert to any dangers or pitfalls that might destroy the strength of the Association, or the effectiveness of the counselling service. Those Big Sisters who worked closely with her to further the welfare of youth would agree that each was personally stirred by her enthusiasm for the job to be done, her sincerity of purpose, her very great expendability. Each will concede that her own horizons were broadened, her understanding of, and feeling for young people in trouble strengthened by association with Mary Lugsdin. Under her direction the service to girls became more innovative. Wisely chosen professional staff used their special skills to give new hope to the deeply troubled young people who sought help at Huntley House. Her ability to inspire her Board of Directors, and the Association they represented, "to dare the impossible" resulted in extension of the service to include therapeutic residential accommodation. Strong in her belief that a voluntary agency, in order to justify its existence, must continually search for new ways to extend and improve the service offered, several special programmes had been initiated. A plan of exploratory outreach was underway to determine how hardto-reach, high risk young people could be contacted and helped. The Children's Treatment Centre plans were on the way to fmalization. Big Sisters marched at a faster pace during the years from 1951, than in earlier days. The times, population explosion, more serious needs of youth presented both professional staff and concerned Big Sisters with a challenge. Under Mary Lugsdin's direction goals were accomplished that seemed impossible in 1950. She gave greatly of herself to the agency, the Association

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and to each individual member who had the good fortune to be associated closely with her. Recognizing her worth, as a true Big Sister, members of Lawrence Park Circle contributed the funds that have made her a life member of the Association. When she said good-bye to the agency for whose service she had been responsible for so many years, a number of the programmes, all important to her, were left uncompleted. Concerned Big Sisters, to whom the welfare of the agency's service was equally important, felt some anxiety about the future. Who would replace Mary Lugsdin?

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A new director — A new perspective You can see it in the arts, in industry, in commerce, in government—the young have become a powerful economic force with the strength to manipulate social policy just as easily as they influence their parents' styles in hair, clothes, language and music. They have wealth and influence such as their elders never knew in their own youth. They are a market too big and volatile to be ignored. No wonder that merchants tremble at their step. No wonder that 'voting rights' and 'age of majority' have become negotiable items in political terms. .. . Gordon Wolfe, in Annual Report , 1973

Pending employment of a new permanent leader, the Big Sisters engaged Dr. Sidney Olyan, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Social Work, School of Social Work, University of Toronto as consultant and interim director. Members of the Board were determined that the counselling service must function without interruption. Aware that services to young people should be flexible enough to adjust to the demands of the times, that the character of the counselling service, which had changed dramatically during the years of Mary Lugsdin's leadership might alter again with advent of a new leader, Big Sisters were concerned that a high quality of service be assured. If the Association membership could be instilled with fresh enthusiasm, challenged to greater involvement in promotion of the youth service they sponsored, some urgently needed extensions could be initiated. Great care was taken, therefore, in examination of the applications of possible candidates for the important position. A Toronto-born man, with a Master's degree from the University of Toronto School of Social Work, and an established reputation in the community for his innovative skills in dealing with troubled young people, became the new director, by unanimous

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decision of the Board. When it was announced that a male leader would henceforth be responsible for the wellbeing of the Big Sister Counselling Service for adolescent girls, coordinate the activities of more than 500 active and associate members of the all female Association, certain Big Sisters speculated, briefly, about the wisdom of the choice. Within weeks they agreed that it was a good one. Gordon Wolfe came to 34 Huntley Street, as executive director, in September 1973, to feel his way carefully for a brief period of time, assess the strengths of the Association, the expertise of the professional staff, complete unfinished programmes initiated by his predecessor. At the same time he would reach out to offer service in areas in which need was being demonstrated. During the early years of the 1960's individual Big Sisters more than once expressed the opinion that the comprehensive service they provided for adolescent girls should be available to all youth. Extension of the counselling service to teenage boys was a concern of the Board in 1968 when the study of the needs of youth was authorized. Their concern was endorsed by the findings of that report. Twenty-five agencies serving youth had been asked the question, "Where do you refer boys and girls for counselling?" From the replies received it was learned that the Family Service Associations were the only services except Big Sister Counselling Service being used for comparable referrals. In the autumn of 1973 the committee set up to study the recommendation for a change in name suggested, "Huntley Youth Services, sponsored by the Big Sister Association," in substitution for Big Sister Counselling Service. A meeting of the Association in December gave approval for several proposed changes. These provided for structural improvements in Association administration, adoption of the name Huntley Youth Services, and extension of the counselling service to include boys at the beginning of the new year. On 14 January 1974, the Children's Treatment Centre for girls 11 to 15 years of age, initiated originally by the gift of funds from the Board of St. Faith's Lodge, was opened. In his report to the membership at the annual meeting in February 1974, the new executive director was able to announce — "We are an agency in transition — new name, boy counsel-

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ling, participation in the innovative service centre programme being tested out by York Community Services, a redefinition of our volunteer programme, a new residential facility, an examination of our internal agency organization and supervisory structure, the testing out of a new administrative structure at a Board level with streamlining of committees into Service, Finance and Association Councils." Six men were elected to the Board of Directors in 1974, and others were admitted to general membership in the Association. It was the first time that names of men appeared on the Big Sister Association membership roster since 1917 when the late Mr. A.E. Ames, encouraged by his wife and daughter, became a sustaining member. A new era had begun. In a short space of time a subtle change had taken place at 34 Huntley Street. Perhaps it was the presence of boys awaiting counselling appointments, some of whom sprawled in the comfortable waiting-room chairs, legs outstretched, munching on cookies, while others sat quietly in their seats, lonely and isolated, their faces drawn and anxious. Perhaps it was the spontaneous friendliness of the male and female staff. A therapeutic group programme, designed to help young people "free themselves from the alienation that is so much a part of life" was initiated in 1974. In all, 15 groups operated during the year. There were discussion groups, coeducational, as well as one for all males and another for females. There were groups for socialization, which included crafts, a clay therapy group for four girls, cooking groups, games groups, and many others. An educational group for 15 senior public school students covered such topics as drugs, alcohol, dating and human sexuality. Hospitals, schools, certain residential services sent young people to 34 Huntley Street to participate in the therapeutic group programme, believing it would be beneficial to them. Although the number of groups in operation varies from time to time, the therapeutic programme continues to be successful. Conducted largely in the evening, and usually at Huntley Street, the programme attracts new clients to the house, and has necessitated extension of office hours on four nights of the week.

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In 1974 there were more volunteers involved in a one-to-one ongoing relationship with young people than formerly. Fifteen worked in a direct service role with girls in residence either at 138 Madison or 204 St. Clair West, while six others managed the cooperative apartment project. Eighty-three percent of the total intake list of 1186 in 1974 were girls, 17 percent boys. By the end of 1977 the ratio of boys to girls in counselling was roughly one to two, or 63 percent girls and 37 percent boys of a total intake of 2,072. Young people from the suburbs, east, west and north, and from the central core of the city, came to the house on Huntley Street in search of help with their personal difficulties, referred by parents, teachers, and a variety of sources. Many travelled long distances by subway and bus to refer themselves, keep individual counselling appointments or participate in group programmes. Huntley Youth Services continued to be a field work training centre for students from the University of Toronto School of Social Work, the Waterloo School and certain community colleges. Board members and professional staff were more and more involved together in community undertakings, working with other agencies, alert to changing needs, in their search for solutions to the difficult youth problems of the day: drugs, alcoholism, suicide and others. Several Big Sisters were taking their places in the community, along with members of boards of directors of other agencies, to study and debate the effect of raising the drinking age, lowering the early school leaving age, and similar disputable social issues. Thoughtful women were developing a new, more positive social awareness. The report of a second study of service needs and future directions for Huntley Youth Services, conducted by the Association's Service Council, was approved by the Board of Directors in 1975. Included in it were recommendations for change and improvement in service policies, two of major importance being extension into the suburbs, and establishment of a second treatment centre for children in the 11 to 15 year age range. In 1976 a committee began to establish priorities for implementation, draw a realistic blueprint for a five year plan. Several factors would condition their decisions, not the least important being the availability of funds. The dollars for funding new projects and service extensions were less readily available in 1977. Consequently the Board of

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Directors agreed that, although there was a serious lack of office space at Huntley Street, the proposal for expansion of service into the suburbs was not practical, and must be put aside for reconsideration at a later date. Instead, acting upon the suggestion of the consultant architect who had been involved in the plans for the major construction that took place at Huntley Street ten years earlier, five small additional offices were created on the third floor through the partitioning of larger rooms and restructuring the roof. More young people found their way to 34 Huntley Street in 1977, than in previous years, to be served through one or several facets of the service as their need indicated. Their presence made creation of the added offices a necessity. Among the new programmes initiated in 1977 is one that is referred to as the Diversion Project. It is a two-year pilot programme entered into in conjunction with several other youth agencies in Metropolitan Toronto. The aim of the programme is to keep the boy or girl who has come to the attention of the police out of Court or Training School; to assess each one and work out a plan for help through counselling, and thus avoid the establishment of a juvenile record. It is designed to resolve problems involving delinquent acts with a minimum of delay between commission of the offence and resolution of the problem, in an atmosphere that is informal and non-threatening. To be included in the Diversion Programme a child must have committed an identifiable first offence. Participation is short-term, and the emphasis is on helping the young person assume responsibility for his acts. The Board of the Big Sister Association approved the involvement of Huntley Youth Services in the project at the request of the Youth Bureau of the Metropolitan Toronto Police Department. The belief that in Toronto 21 percent of the juveniles in the Juvenile Justice System will commit a further delinquency in the same year fosters the hope of both the Police Bureau and the social agencies involved that the problem of juvenile delinquency can be solved more effectively through this method. Another new project was initiated when plans were formalized for the implementation of a Family Support Worker into the agency's programme to work with mentally retarded young people and their families. An especially trained worker provides specific support for certain families with a mentally handi-

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capped child, to refer the child and the family to services which will meet their needs, and to coordinate those services, thus giving ongoing long term assistance to the family. In the late 1920's the Big Sister Association supplied a professional caseworker to the Edith L. Groves School for the Retarded, at the request of the City of Toronto Department of Welfare. The worker gave the girls love and attention, and taught them skills that would be useful to them in their adult years. In the '70's, an Association-sponsored Huntley Youth Services counsellor is working with the retarded in ways that are in tune with the times but giving the children and their families that same love and understanding to which they can respond. Urged by their continuing determination to promote the welfare of youth, the Big Sisters invited the public to hear a panel discussion on, "The Rights of Children", in March. The presentations of the panelists brought recognition to children as persons in their own right, entitled to as much respect as adults afford each other. It was agreed that at the present time "it is difficult to develop guidelines for policy and practice which will protect minors and at the same time honour them as persons and facilitate their maturation". Sponsorship of a forum of this kind is further indication of Big Sister caring for children and youth. Again, in 1977, as it had in 1966, the Big Sister Association found it necessary to reaffirm its policy of charging "no fee to adolescents who use our service where service is exclusively given to the adolescent". In addition to giving their attention to the details necessary to their sponsorship of Huntley Youth Services, members of the Board have been involved, through 1977, in the activities of the Ontario Association of Family Service Agencies, Ontario Association of Children's Mental Health Centres, Big Sister Association of Ontario and Metro Agencies Action Group. With more than 60 years of constant promotion of the welfare of youth behind it, the present organization is strong and vibrant. A finance council examines all budgets carefully in an endeavour to maintain a state of solvency through a difficult period of inflation. The budgets are meticulously scanned also

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by the United Community Fund, and the Ministry of Community and Social Services and Ministry of Health of the Province of Ontario. Funds from the Thrift Shop, in addition to provision of practical aid to clients, augment other income in operation of the agency. Circles too, and individual Big Sisters and friends contribute money for special projects. A legacy from the estate of the late Mrs. C.P. (Grace) Fell made it possible for the Association to produce a film of Huntley Youth Services in action, in 1975. Students and staff of Ryerson Polytechnical Institute collaborated with the agency in the production. Foundations and corporations, convinced of the worth of the service, are generous in their assistance with important undertakings such as the therapeutic summer camping programmes which are too costly to be financed wholly by Association dollars. In 1972 one foundation contributed sufficient funds to cover an operating deficit that was large enough to cause considerable anxiety among members of the Board and Finance Committee. The following year women of the Association worked together on a mammoth two-day fund-raising event which they called "Springarama". Side by side, Big Sisters staffed booths in the St. Lawrence Market, sold home baking, clothing, books from the Thrift Shop. They served luncheon and dinner in St. Lawrence Hall, held a successful raffle and auction, and realized more than $25,000.00 in funds for service. A similar event on a smaller scale was held in 1975, and in the spring of 1977 Big Sisters gathered for a third fund-raising day. Their efforts were rewarded through the satisfaction of knowing that a substantial number of dollars would be added to the funds for service. Within the membership a new eagerness is evident, a quickening of interest in the youth programmes made possible by their fund-raising efforts. Big Sisters work with fresh zeal to accomplish their common purpose. The lines of communication between agency and membership are clear and strong. "Headquarters" is no longer a nebulous place to which funds raised by circles are sent to be used for practical aid to clients. The Association Council now functions effectively to keep members in close touch with the realities of the agency's service. The character of the service has altered to a degree, as it was bound to do under the direction of a new dynamic leader. But the quality remains high. The residential services flourish, with an occupancy rate as close to 100 percent as is compatible with

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smooth operation. A Family Care team serves a number of multi-problem families in which parents are in despair because they are no longer able to control their rebellious teenage children. Experienced staff spend several hours at a time every week in the homes of these families, working intensively with each member. A programme of outreach which includes work within the school structure with students in a senior public school, and involvement with the teachers to quicken their understanding of some of the problems encountered in the classrooms continues. The agency is recognized in the community for its leadership in the field of youth and parent counselling, and for the sensitive, innovative service it provides to adolescents. In the four years that have elapsed since the agency name was changed to Huntley Youth Services, many girls and boys have made their way to the gray house in search of help with their particular problems. As more and more young people come to 34 Huntley Street, members of the Board and professional staff share a common concern about the need to identify new ways of working with girls and boys to find solutions to problems that are age old, and still strange and frightening to a young adolescent.

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22

People helping people What shall be the course of society and civilization across the next hundred years? For the answers read, if you can, the strange and baffling eyes of youth. .. . Carl Sandburg; Always the Young Strangers

On a Saturday afternoon in February 1975, a pleasant-faced Big Sister hovered anxiously over a luncheon table in a Haliburton cottage, touched a yellow paper napkin, rearranged a bowl of fruit, turned to straighten the cushions on a well-worn sofa. Behind her a fire crackled on the hearth, tongues of flame licked at the chimney stones. Shaded lamplight brightened the floor, deepened the colour in the rugs. Pausing beside a window to look at rain that drifted in sheets across the frozen lake, the woman sighed, nervously. She and her doctor husband were about to play weekend hosts to a half-dozen junior teenage girls. The guests had been promised a weekend of skiing, skating, snowmobile rides, fun in a vast white outdoors. To her, it was important to make the holiday a happy experience for them. If the rain continued what would she offer in substitution for outdoor activities? Her guests were girls from the Children's Treatment Centre located at that time at 204 St. Clair Avenue West, who, unable to live in their homes were being helped to work out severe emotional problems in the therapeutic setting. Among the residents of the Centre were girls who had attempted suicide, girls lonely, withdrawn and without friends among their peers, as well as girls who were exhibiting signs of delinquency through aggressive anti-social behavior, compulsive lying and stealing. How would these children react to the disappointing weather! Before the last child spilled out of the station wagon at the end of the rutted road, the pleasant-faced Big Sister had regained something of her usual serenity, her confidence bolstered by her husband's words of reassurance, and those of the social worker who accompanied the visitors. Greeting each girl warmly, she herded them into the sitting-room, urged the diffident ones to enjoy their food, and wondered,

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silently, whether she could expect the weekend to progress as smoothly as it was beginning. "Were there problems? Yes, but none that couldn't be resolved," the Big Sister said, smiling gently in reminiscense. "It was a good weekend for everyone." In an earlier era another Big Sister and her husband demonstrated their caring in a different way. A child who had been living in Toronto was returned to England in 1923 to stay with an aunt because of undesirable conditions that existed in her Canadian home. While holidaying in the English countryside with her family, the woman visited the child who had been her Little Sister. She was rudely shocked by the impoverished circumstances in which the little girl lived. In conversation with the aunt she learned that an uncle in Toronto who had regularly sent them funds had become a terminal hospital patient, unable to continue his contributions to their welfare. Without hesitation, the Big Sister involved her lawyer husband who was able to make financial arrangements that would provide the child with bed, board and education. Upon his return to Toronto he made a point of visiting the uncle to advise him of the arrangements made for his niece. All through the years it has been demonstrated again and again, that Big Sisters are "caring" people. The women who acted as assistants to the probation officers during the first months of the operation of the Juvenile Court, at whatever inconvenience to themselves, did so out of compassion for the bewildered and frightened children with whom they came in contact. It was the concept of offering a helping hand to a young person in trouble that sparked the emotional interest of the women who formed the first Big Sister Committee in 1912. A desire to promote the cause of youth motivated them to write a constitution and bylaws in 1916, assume responsibility for the organization of an independent Big Sister Association. Filled with a philanthropic zeal, they endeavoured, to the best of their ability, to help every young girl referred to them. In the role of Big Sister they went into the homes of the children assigned to them to find, all too often, that a mother's struggle to pay the rent, place food on the table blinded her to the need of her children for love and affection. A few words of encouragement, a few dollars from the Big Sister's purse spent on necessities, without thought of reimbursement, could at times instil in an entire family a feeling that better days would come because someone cared enough to help.

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Big Sisters prove their solicitude for the wellbeing of youth in many ways. But the element of caring, though intangible, is constantly evident in their untiring efforts to achieve their purpose. The hostess of the Haliburton weekend is a volunteer closely connected with the Children's Treatment Centre, and the holiday was part of a total plan to help the girls in residence there adjust to normal living. A member of the Board of Directors, the volunteer is one of many women, young and older, who hurry in and out of the house at 34 Huntley Street to promote the successful operation of Huntley Youth Services in whatever ways they can. The woman who, in 1923, concerned herself with the welfare of her Little Sister in England, was a member and a councillor of the Big Sister Association from the time of organization until her death. Like many other early Big Sisters she was well-to-do. Out of compassion for children less fortunate than her own, she spent funds freely to help the girls referred to the Association. The Christmas party for children known to the staff of the Big Sister Association has been a tradition through all the years the organization has been in existence. In the early days a Christmas entertainment for Little Sisters was held in the drawingroom of a Big Sister. Well-scrubbed children, often in ill-fitting and mended clothes, played parlour games under the supervision of half a dozen hostess assistants, diffidently approached a lavishly decorated tree to receive their presents, and remained to share in the abundant refreshments. Held at 34 Huntley Street each year since the house became the property of the Association, it has continued to be an especial event for clients of the service, their friends amd families. Ten days or more before Christmas a tree is set up and ornamented. The rooms are hung with boughs of pine and cedar, tinsel and gay bells, augmented by individual decorations made by the girls who come to the house. The 1916 Christmas party was a genteel celebration with afternoon tea served in fine china cups, with silver teaspoons and linen napkins. The 1977 Christmas party bore little resemblance to the earlier one, except that on both occasions there was food in abundance to satisfy youthful appetites. Paper cups from which gallons of pop, coffee and hot chocolate were drunk, replaced the former china ones. The sandwiches were heartier, the cakes equally delicious. Half a dozen Big Sisters staffed the kitchen to

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replenish plates with food from the pantries of many circle members, open soft drink bottles, and make coffee. Young people came, some with parents, some with brothers and sisters, a few of them small enough to play on the floor with Christmas toys. Boys and girls sang carols and favourite songs, interspersed with rock music strummed on a guitar by one of their number. Others moved about from room to room, talking, listening, gaily laughing or quietly wistful. One or two who remained aloof, awkward and uncomfortable, yet loath to leave the gay warmth of the gathering, were drawn into the merrymaking by a perceptive counsellor. A far cry from the elegant drawing-room entertainments of the early days when children were overawed by the grandeur of the surroundings, the 1977 Christmas gathering was a happy, wholesome, noisy party involving boys and girls in jeans and sweaters, many of whom were unknown to each other prior to the event. The girls in residence at 138 Madison participate in planned group holidays as part of their living and learning experience. There have been school-break trips to other cities and to the Laurentians. A ski weekend in Muskoka, with equipment borrowed from families of Big Sisters, was a happy event for several girls, as were summer cottage and camping vacations for others. For 11 girls a trip to Vancouver, in August 1972, was an unforgettable adventure. Chaperoned by professional staff, they travelled across the country in a bus which each girl helped to decorate, much to the amusement of the driver and his wife. With overnight stops at federal hostels, an Ojibway Indian reservation, sleeping, on occasion, in tents pitched under the stars, they went from province to province. They visited small towns and villages and larger cities. For a number of girls it was a first time to see the ocean, climb a mountain path in search of wildflowers, paddle a canoe down a tree-shadowed stream, watch the gophers at sunset on the Saskatchewan prairie. In exchanging experiences with young people they met along the way, boys and girls who were hitch-hiking across the continent, they spoke proudly of the money they had earned in July as salesgirls in the Big Sister Thrift Shop in order that each might make a personal contribution toward the cost of the holiday. Although strenuous almost to the point of exhaustion, it was an experience that broadened outlooks, instilled in each one a new self-confidence, a lesson in learning about each other, and themselves. The holiday was sponsored and financed by the women of

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the Big Sister Association, with assistance of the Travel and Exchange Programme of the Government of Canada. During the summer of 1976, 39 clients of the Counselling Service, boys and girls between the ages of 12 and 16, participated in an exciting summer programme at a camp in northern Ontario. They were children who do not fit into the regular programmes offered by community camps, and experience poor relations with other children and with adults. Many of them were unknown to each other prior to the holiday. In company with counsellors, the group was transported to the camp by bus. For some children it was a first time to swim in a northern lake, or sleep in a cabin among the trees. While learning to paddle a canoe, catch a fish, or identify a wildflower they began to learn about themselves and getting along with other people. The girls from 12 Maynard Avenue, accompanied by two child care workers, enjoyed a similar experience when the first camping group returned to the city. And in 1977 further camping programmes gave other children holiday experiences that were adventures in learning while living. Circle members laboured long hours in the 1920's and 1930's to make quantities of appropriate camp clothing in order that disadvantaged children might enjoy a summer holiday. Latterly there has been less need for special clothing, and the Big Sisters have contributed their dollars to help finance the therapeutic summer camping programmes. They believe, with the first Big Sisters, in the therapy of blue sky, water, tall trees and an atmosphere of fun and relaxation for unhappy young people who may, from the experience, learn valuable lessons in the art of living with their peers. Parents of children who participate in the camping programme pay whatever portion of the fee they are able to afford. Special donations augment Big Sister funds to make the camping experiences possible. Without the funds provided, and the moral support extended to the staff, several innovative and challenging Huntley Youth Services programmes might have to be curtailed. But the women of the Association stand ready to offer assistance in whatever ways are necessary to assure the youth who come to the house on Huntley Street that there are people who care about them enough to help them solve their growing-up problems.

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The dedication of the membership to the Big Sister purpose gives strength to the organization and meaning to their achievements. Working for a cause they are determined to promote, something they believe in, sparks the intangible element that transforms a menial task into a pleasant duty. Whether it is in a committee, on a Shop shift, in a one-to-one relationship with a lonely and timid young person, or making plans for an especial fund-raising event, they work with an enthusiasm that is contagious. Because they enjoy being together as an Association, renewing friendships, socializing over luncheon, members occasionally celebrate a '"Be good to Big Sisters" day. The 1975 Association annual meeting proved to be such an event. The programme included a unique ceremony. Five Big Sisters were presented with sterling silver pins, suitably engraved, in recognition of 50 or more years of active membership. The women honoured received their gifts proudly. Other Big Sisters in the audience rose to applaud them, shoulders straightened, heads held high, in sudden realization of the full meaning of the observance. To have been a Big Sister for half a century, positively sponsoring a service to youth, year after year through good times and bad, was a splendid accomplishment that only a few could hope to achieve. Every member present felt a surge of pride because she too was a Big Sister. Thoughtful women pondered the reasons for their own continuing membership. Why did each one cherish her association with other Big Sisters? Why, in spite of family commitments and other interests, does she serve on Board and committees, do regular Thrift Shop duty, find time to help a young girl shop for articles needed for a camp holiday? Why does she participate in a course of instruction in order to become a volunteer who would work with clients on a one-to-one basis? Why have five women remained Big Sisters for 50 years? Why has the membership of many others been severed only by illness or death? What is it that attracts a woman, or a man to membership in the Big Sister Association? Is it the feeling of compassion one has for vulnerable adolescents "searching for an identity in a world that grows more and more confusing, where values change as often as the weather"? Is it a sincere desire to help a troubled young person become a mature adult? Are these the reasons why, when setting their lives in order, Big Sisters designate legacies to the Association so that the ongoing process of people helping people may continue? Are they the reasons

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why a volunteer secretarial group eases the work load of the administrative staff, or a Thrift Shop worker sews on buttons, presses a crumpled blouse in order to make an extra dollar for the Association's practical aid programme? Good enough reasons! But there is another, an elusive and magical quality which strengthens the bond of friendship that exists among members of circles. In part, it is adherence to the unwritten rule that a decision approved by the majority will receive the support of all members. It is also the fact that friendship bonds become stronger as women work for a common purpose. The circumstance of working together to make it possible for the youth of today to become well adjusted adults of tomorrow is a challenge they readily accept. The certain knowledge that it is to-day's youth who will be involved in the decisions that shape tomorrow's world makes promotion of a young person's welfare a vital undertaking. When asked why he had become an associate member of the Association a member of the former Men's Advisory Council replied, "Women who never acknowledge defeat, who believe that no obstacle is insurmountable in the struggle to achieve their purpose, deserve the cooperation of every man." Members of the Board of Directors were invited to comment on their reasons for being Big Sisters. The replies came from women who were members of circles. While individual statements cited several motives, each one mentioned the personal satisfaction achieved through working with others to help troubled young people. One member acknowledged that her acceptance of an invitation to join a Big Sister Circle, when she was a stranger, newly arrived in Toronto, and the warmth of welcome given her by other members of that circle led to 18 years of involvement in Circle and Board activities, and Thrift Shop operation. Being a Big Sister is a way of life to her. And so it is to many others. The associate membership is supportive and encouraging in many ways, but it is within the Circles and among the Thrift Shop fraternity that the basic strength of the Association lies, the solidarity of membership that morally and financially supports the service offered by Huntley Youth Services. The times have changed during the years since 1912, and inevitably will change again, but the Association purpose remains constant. So long as there are Big Sisters who care enough to be closely involved in the promotion of the service

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they sponsor, reach out to include friends and neighbours in their Circle achievements, so long will the Big Sister Association remain strong, the torch burn with an unwavering flame. So long will youth be served.

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Notes Preface 1. from Big Sister Association Circle Directory, 1978-79, "Statement of Association Purpose". Chapter 2 1. The Local Council of Women was a society composed of some 65 member groups banded together by virtue of their common interest in social issues and philanthropic causes. 2. Report, Inspector of Legal Offices, Ontario, 1909-14 (Public Archives of Ontario). 3. Alexandria Industrial School was located first on Kingston Road in 1910, and after 1918 on Blantyre Avenue, north of Kingston Road. 4. Established in 1868, the Girls' Home was located at 229 Gerrard St. East. 5. from Local Council of Women Report, 1912. Chapter 3 1. from Local Council of Women Annual Report, 1913. 2. Ibid., 1914. 3. Ibid., 1915. 4. from early minutes of the Big Sister Association 5. Local Council of Women records show that in 1913 some 3,000 girls and women arrived in Toronto from smaller towns to seek jobs. 6. from Local Council of Women Annual Report, 1915. 7. Ibid., 1916. Chapter 6 1. Mrs. Massey was the wife of industrialist, Charles D. Massey, Chairman of the Board of the Massey Harris Company. A philanthropist, like his father, Hart Almerrin Massey, he was a kind generous benefactor of a number of charitable and educational institutions, including the Big Sister Association.

149 2. One of the three was Miss Mildred Warwick who in 1979 is an esteemed life member of the Big Sister Association. Chapter 8 1. The Big 88 Shoe Store was located at 88 Queen St. West. 2. St. Margaret's College was a private school for girls, located on Bloor Street, near Jarvis. Chapter 9 1. Marshall Saunders was a Canadian author of books for children, who lived in Lawrence Park, and was interested in the Big Sister Association. 2. Bolton Camp was a camp for children and mothers, at Bolton, Ontario,operated by the Neighbourhood Workers' Association, now Family Service Association of Metropolitan Toronto. Chapter 11 1. Camp Glen Bernard was a girls' camp situated on Lake Bernard, at Sundridge, Ontario, owned and operated at that time by the late Mary Edgar. Chapter 13 1. The Toronto Welfare Council became the Social Planning Council of Metropolitan Toronto in 1957. Chapter 14 1. Protestant Children's Homes has become Family Day Care Services. Chapter 17 1. Madame Pauline Vanier, wife of Georges P. Vanier, Governor General of Canada, 1959-1967.

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Advisory Council 1962 -1973 Arthur V. Pigott, 1962 — 1973, chairman R.C. Berkinshaw, 1962 — 1970, Clare D. Carruthers, 1969 — 1973, Dr. Sidney Olyan, 1973, W. Harold Rea, 1962 — 1973, Norman J. Robinson, 1969—1973, George Stephenson, 1971 — 1973, J. Bryan Vaughan, 1962 — 1971, Gordon V. Armstrong, 1962 — 1973. and Honourary Legal Counsel

Presidents 1916 —Miss Hilda Burns 1917 — Mrs. Franklin Johnson 1918 —Mes. Sidney Small 1921 —Mrs. F.J. Coombs 1922—Mrs. Leonard Murray (acting president) 1923 —Mrs. J.B. Cleveland 1927 —Mrs. G.H. Kuhring 1929 —Mrs. C. Frank Moore 1934 —Mrs. J. Robert Page 1938 —Mrs. Leighton Elliott 1944 — Mrs. George W. Lawrence 1947 —Mrs. Donald M. Low 1949 —Mrs. C.F. Basil Tippet 1951 —Mrs. Charles P. Fell 1953 —Mrs. Ewen H. McLean 1955 — Mrs. Milton B. Hastings 1957 —Mrs. W.J. Smallacombe 1959 — Mrs. Norman J. Robinson 1961 —Mrs. J.C. McKellar 1963—Mrs. George F. Kelk (now Mrs. J.B. Lesslie) 1965 —Mrs. W.R. Carruthers 1967 —Mrs. D.L. Mumford 1969 —Mrs. Donald Van Wyck 1971 —Mrs. W. Stewart Rogers 1973 —Mrs. W.J. Rapson 1975 — Mrs. A. Lawrason 1977 —Mrs. R.A. Bowlby

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General Secretaries

1916 —Miss Eddis 1916 — Miss Hattie Austin 1919 —Mrs. H.V. Laughton 1921 —Miss Emily Mohr 1925 —Miss Jean Walker 1927 —Miss Brock 1929 — Miss Helen Robertson 1947 —Miss Viola G. Gilfillan

Executive Directors 1950 — Miss Mary Lugsdin 1973 —Mr. Gordon Wolfe

Donors Major continuing donors to Practical Aid Fund and Special Projects from 1966 — Atkinson Foundation J.P. Bickell Foundation G.M. Black Jr. Foundation Colonel Sanders Foundation Counselling Foundation of Canada Sir Joseph Flavelle Foundation Percy R. Gardiner Foundation J. William Horsey Foundation N.A. Hyland Foundation Jackman Foundation McLean Charitable Foundation The Honourable J.C. McRuer, Q.C. Memorial Fund for library at 138 Madison Avenue residence Moulton College Alumnae Memorial Fund for library at 12 Maynard Avenue Natrusco Employee Fund Northgate Explorations Limited Sangamo Electric Employee Fund St. Faith's Lodge Tippet Foundation Web Offset Publications Limited

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Scholarship Sponsors Major scholarship sponsors — from 1948 Kiwanis Club of West Toronto — for three years Teachers' Wives Association — twenty-three years from 1950 Beta Sigma Phi Sorority — three years Board of Trade Club — twentythree years Downtown Kinette Clubs — five years Kappa Kappa Gamma Fraternity — one year from 1953 Gyrette Club (also to temporary shelter) — fifteen years Havergal College Gift Fund (in 1964 to Residence Fund) — ten years "What's it Club" — bridge group of wives of Barber Shop Quartet—five years from 1962 Rotary Club of Toronto from 1970 Chamberlain Chapter I.O.D.E.

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Index Active Service Canteen 78 Albert Street 78 Alexandria Industrial School, Toronto 18,77 American Women's Club 77 Ames, Ethel 36 Ames, Mrs. A.E. 24, 36, 55, 86 Ames, Mr. A.E. 134 Armstrong, Gordon, Q.C. 103, 118 Atkinson Foundation 113 Avenue Circle 65 Avenue Road 106 Baillie, Lady 40 Bailey, Jamie And Gibson 104 Barbara House 83 Bell Telephone Company 49 Big Brother Movement 19, 20, 29, 33, 59, 68, 88, 97 Big 88 Shoe Store 54 Big Sister Scholarship Fund 52, 53, 54, 88 Big Sister Association of Ontario 8,137 Big Sister Thrift Shop 64,106,108, 110, 129,138,143, 145,146 (pictures 107) Bolton Avenue School 73 Bolton Camp 62, 73 Bowmanville 77 Boyd, Edward 25 Brown Betty Tea Room 15 Burns, Hilda 20, 22, 24, 25, 28, 29, 30, 40, 44 Byrne, Mrs. E.M. 39, 40, 43, 82 Camp Glen Bernard, Sundridge 77 Canadian Education Association 85 Canadian Expeditionary Force 26 Canadian Medical Journal 118 Carlton Street 39,41,42,43,44 Catholic Girls' Club 83 Central Circle (Helen Robertson) 61, 62, 83 Central Technical School 73 Central Toronto Youth Services 14 Centre Island (See Toronto Island) Chapman, Ethel 41 Charles Street East 86, 90 Children's Aid Society 17, 48, 97 Children's Protection Act 17 Child Welfare League of America 72 Circles 58 College Street Public Library 61

Community Chest 86, 88 Conference Club 37, 39, 42, 43 Coombs, Mrs. F.J. (Ethel Ames) 55, 56 Co-op Apartments 120 Copper Beach Club 43, 45 Creed's 94 Croll, Hon. David 77 Danforth Avenue 70 Diet Kitchen 15 Don River 60 Dundas Street 60 Eaton Auditorium 86 Eaton, Lady 24, 33, 40 Edgar, Mary S. 77 Edith L. Groves School 72, 73, 137 Ellen S. Bates Joy Blossom Fund 82 Elm House 82 England 18, 85, 141 Etobicoke Girls' Residence 65 Europe 18 Family Day Care Services 93, 97, 112 Family Service Association of Metropolitan Toronto 69, 71, 73, 133 Federation For Community Service 49, 67, 68, 70, 74 Fell, Mrs. C.P. 56, 138 Flavelle, Lady 24, 40 Friendly Street Patrol 50 Friends' Church 34 Gait Training School 77, 78,98 Gardiner, Percy 103 Gay Venture Circle 64,116 Georgina House 83 Girls'Club 39,42,43, 45 Girls' Community Club 54 Girls' Friendly Society 29 Girls' Home 18 Glen Stewart 36 Haliburton, 64,140,142 Hamilton, Mrs. L.A. 51 Hastings, Mrs. Milton B. 90 Havergal College 91 Hearst, Premier 28 Helen Robertson Circle (See Central Circle) Heliconian Club 30 Hepburn, Premier Mitchell 79

155 Highlanders' Band 36 Hill Circle 61, 62, 70, 73,94 Hillcrest House 69, 74 Holiday House, Centre Island 86 Hope Page Circle 64, 79, 90, 91 Huestis, Mrs. A.M. 19, 20, 27, 28, 69 Humber Circle 65 Huyler's Candy Shop 15 Huntley Street 9,11,13, 90,94 Huntley Youth Services 8, 9,10,14, 133 (picture 89) Inn On The Park 102 Ireland 18 Jarvis Street 22 Johnson, Mrs. Franklin 28, 34 Jubilee Circle 65 Junior Hill Circle 65 Juvenile Court 16, 17,18, 22, 24, 67, 136, 141 Juvenile Delinquents Act 16 Kemp House 64, 70, 76 Kemp, Lady 24 King Edward tfotel 46, 84 King George VI106 Kingsway Circle 64 Kitchener, Ontario 51 Kurata, Mrs. Bessie 25,26, 29,30, 51 Lake Simcoe 20 Lawrence, Mrs. George W. 113 Lawrence Park Circle 56,61, 62,94,131 Livingstone, Sir Richard 52 Local Council of Women 9,16,19 Lugsdin, Mary 87, 94, 97,98,129,130, 131 McCormick, Helen P. 15 Maclean's Magazine 41 Macmillan Company 41 Madison Avenue, 64,96,103,104,109 (picture 101) Margaret Scott Circle 65, 90 Martin, S.S. 28 Massey, Mrs. C.D. 40 Matthews, Mrs. Albert 103 May Louise Memorial Circle 65 Maynard Avenue 127,144 (picture 128) Men's Advisory Council 101,102, 111, 115,130,146 Metro Agencies Action Group 137

Moore Park Circle 61, 63, 73, 91 Moss Park 64, 70, 74, 76 Mott, Hawley S. 52, 59,67 Mount Pleasant Road 81 Mowat, Sir Oliver 17 Murray, Mrs. Leonard 60 Muskoka 20,143 Neighbourhood Workers Association (See Family Service Association) Newcastle 43 Niagara Falls, Ontario 95 Olyan, Dr. Sidney 132 Ontario Attorney-General 17, 76 Director of Welfare 97 Inspector of Legal Offices 17 Department of Education 81 Ministry of Community and Social Services 101,125,126,138 Ministry of Health and Welfare 126, 127,138 Ontario Association of Family Service Agencies 137 Oriole Circle 65 Ottawa 9,16, 51 Page, Mrs. J. Robert 60,64,77 Parkdale Circle (York) 61,62 Parkdale House 76 Paterson, Mrs.W. Howard 116 Peel County 17 Pellatt, Lady 35 Penal Reform For Women-Joint Committee 98 Protestant Children's Homes (See Family Day Care Services) Queen's Hotel 15 Red Cross P.O.W. Services 78 Registry Office 35, 45 Robert Simpson Company 49 Robertson, Helen 72,74,76, 78, 79, 82,83 Roman Catholic Big Sisters 69 Rosedale Circle 64 . Royal Alexandra Theatre 15,33 Royal Canadian Air Force 77 Rusholme Road 69 Ryerson Polytechnical Institute 138 St. Andrews Club 70 St. Christopher's Settlement House 74

156 St. Clair Ave. West 204, 126,127, 135, 140 St. Faith's Lodge 124, 125, 126,127, 133 St. Lawrence Market 138 St. Margaret's College 54 Sandberg,Carlll,140 Saunders, Marshall 62 Scotland 18 Shelter 45 Sherbourne House Chapter I.O.D.E. 77 Sherbourne House Club 82 Shriners 79 Small, Mrs. Sydney 39,40,46, 50, 51, 53 Social Planning Council of Metropolitan Toronto 88, 97, 100 Social Service Exchange 37 Starr, Mrs. F.G.N. 19 Starr, John Edward 17,18, 20, 22, 24 Steadfast Club 44 Teen Shop 94 T. Eaton Company 49 Tippet, C.F.B. 90 Tippet Foundation 98, 113 Toronto Board of Education 88 Housing Commission 47, 58 Island 20, 45 Police 136 Public Library 73, 78 Welfare Council (See Social Planning Council) Welfare, Department of 137 Tovell, Mrs. Harold 24 United Community Fund of Greater Toronto 10,49, 97,100,115,138 United Nations, Rights of the Child 87 United States 18 United Way 66 University of Toronto 54, 57 Social Service, Department of 22, 25 Social Work, School of 72,132,135 Vancouver 17,143 Vanier, Mme. Pauline 113,118 (picture 113) Village Circle (See Rosedale Circle) Warrendale (See St. Faith's Lodge) Warwick, Mildred 9, 23, 24, 86 (picture 23) Waterloo, Ontario 135

Wednesday Night Suppers 102 Wellesley Street 79, 85, 86 West End Creche 74 Willard Hall 82 Winter, William 90 Wolfe, Gordon 132, 133 Woman's Century 39 Women's Christian Temperance Union 82 Women's Conservative Club 30 Women's Liberal Club 30 Women's Patriotic League 30 Wright, Carolyn 91 York Community Services 134 Y.M.C.A. 22, 71 Y.W.C.A. 30, 37, 44, 58, 70,125,126 Yukon 18