The Bermuda Senior Islanders' Centre (BSIC) now has a new set of wheels thanks to a local professional services firm.

Ernst & Young Ltd. donated the much-needed new van to the BSIC during a special seniors' lunch.

Leaders of Ernst & Young's Financial Services Office gathered with seniors from BSIC for the unveiling and official ribbon-cutting ceremony of the charity's new vehicle.

Following a blessing by Canon Thomas N. Nisbett, Ernst & Young Ltd. Bermuda managing partner Gil Tucker had the honour of performing the ribbon-cutting and officially turning over the keys to BSIC head Fredrick Hassell.

"BSIC is a gem of a charity, a true example of community outreach at its best," said Mr. Tucker. "When it came to our attention that BSIC was in need of new transportation, we immediately wanted to help.

"This van provides seniors with transportation to enjoy the programmes BSIC and its partner charities offer.

"Thanks to Mr. Hassell's dedication, BSIC is living its mission of creating a resource for the physical, spiritual and cultural recreation of seniors."

Ernst & Young Ltd. also presented Mr. Hassell with two new laptops for use by the Centre.

"Ernst & Young Ltd. focuses its community efforts on both seniors and youth education, with a particular interest in inter-generational programmes," said Kelly Ferris, Ersnt & Young Assistant Director, Regional Marketing Communications.

Also attending the event were mentors from YouthNet, a school-based mentoring program of which Ernst & Young Ltd. is a major sponsor. YouthNet mentors joined Ernst & Young Ltd. staff to greet and serve seniors, and also encouraged them to become mentors.

"The YouthNet team of mentors, some of which are in fact still students, came to assist with the event," said Ms Ferris. "They had the opportunity to chat with seniors about the value of becoming a mentor and the value of intergenerational learning."

Ms Ferris said the seniors seemed very keen on mentoring, and many took away application forms.

• For more information about Ernst & Young Ltd. or this event, contact Ms Ferris at Ernst & Young Ltd. at e-mail address: kelly.ferris@bm.ey.com.

For more information about the BSIC contact Fredrick Hassell at frh@logic.bm.

For more information about YouthNet's programmes or how to become a mentor, contact Clare Mello, Executive Director, YouthNet at clare.mello@youthnet.bm">clare.mello@youthnet.bm