A charity which helps less fortunate children in the community has youngsters who have been waiting three years for assistance -- because of a volunteer shortage.

The Big Brothers and Sisters has had to freeze its waiting list while it bids to find help on the Island for the existing children on its books.

The charity, which matches children with mentors who provide a positive influence on their lives, is desperate to sign up new recruits.

Vice president of the board, Martin Humphreys, said there were currently 40 children in need of a Big Brother.

And he added that he anticipated the true number was much higher because of the freeze on the list of children, some of whom have been waiting for more than three years.

And he said there is no point in additional children being added to the list until the needs of those currently on the list have been met.

This year around 30 men have joined the charity, a good number, but more are needed, he said.

The charity has launched a new recruitment drive with the help of Bermuda's top distance runner Kavin Smith helped, who became their newest member.

Mr. Smith said: "I had often thought about becoming a Big Brother, and when the organisation did a presentation at BTC a couple of weeks ago, well, the time seemed right.

"There are many children in our community who are in need of positive, caring, role models and I believe that we owe it to these youngsters to share our time, talent and experiences to help them grow into responsible, productive adults.'' The organisation is also holding a tag day today in a bid to raise money and awareness of their mentoring charity, and will be at retail locations in Hamilton from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Big Brothers and Sisters of Bermuda was formed in 1977 and pairs same-sex role models with children from broken homes.

Spokesperson Lisa Webb said: "This campaign will focus on educating people on the rewards of being a mentor and a friend to a young child -- rewards that impact not only the child and the volunteer, but the community-at-large.

"Without the ongoing support of our individual and corporate donors, we would not be able to offer the important programmes that we do.

"Over the next few years we will be approaching our valued supporters with our annual appeal letters and sponsorship proposals.'' Mr. Humphrey said some of the activities taking place at the charity's sixth annual "Big for a Day'' event to be held at Warwick Camp on November 4.

The day is an opportunity for potential members to come out and see what mentoring a less fortunate child entails.