SBOC is a community based, non-profit organization and every year they provide an opportunity for students ages 6 - 14 to compete for a spot at becoming a spelling bee champ at the provincial competition in the winter.

This year you can help, too. SBOC is asking for people to come together to make this happen. Currently, Brampton is in dire need of a chapter president. The chapter president controls the entire operation, so it's essential that they find one.

There are numerous volunteer positions also available and one of the priorities is student coaches. Student coaches are needed to work with the kids, and encourage them to keep progressing. If you enjoy working with children and also enjoy English and writing, this would be a great opportunity to get involved, according to Madge Kelly of the SBOC.

"Student coaching doesn't just help the student gain confidence and skill, but also the coach. The coach builds a lot of leadership skill and a widening confidence from working with these students," Kelly said.

"Teaching these students about spelling and not winning is what we're after, there are no losers in a spelling bee, every student that stands up at that podium is a winner."

Right now SBOC is in desperate need of people to organize the Brampton Spelling Bee. They are looking for volunteers to help with the following: fundraising, volunteer coordination, marketing, special events, public relations/media, chapter president, student coaches, school and library liaison.

Experience is not a necessity, training will be provided for all positions. This is a time where the community needs to step in and give a helping hand. The children will be motivated if we are motivated in helping them. These kids have the ability to go far, but its the community that will take them there. Whether it is sharing your past experience, or sharing some of your skill, you will be helping these students get one step closer to the podium and representing Brampton at a national competition.

For information, contact Spelling Bee of Canada at 416-746-0072, or toll free at 1-866-244-0244