Robert McCollum to Serve Three-Year Term on Board of Big Brothers Big Sisters

Attorney Robert McCollum was nominated and unanimously approved to serve a three-year term on the Board of Directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Twin Cities.

  • Q: How long have you been involved in BBBS?
  • A: I first became involved with BBBS for around 16 years.  During that time I’ve served on the Board of Directors since 2010 and also served on the Development Committee which is responsible for fundraising for the organization.

 

  • Q: How does BBBS raise funds?
  • A: We hold an annual Gala that is the primary fundraising function for the organization.  This last year the event was held at Nicollet Island Pavilion.  The evening featured a live auction and live music.  In addition to raising money for a good cause, it is a fun evening.

 

  • Q: What other involvement have you had with BBBS?
  • A: We successfully amended Minnesota law to protect charitable organizations from “claw-back” actions where the donor originally obtained the funds through fraud.  I drafted the legislation and testified at the legislature for 2 years to get the law changed.  Under the previous law, a claw-back action could devastate a charity that acted in good-faith with any knowledge that the donor obtained the money fraudulently.

 

  • Q: Why is BBBS important to you?
  • A: Before every board meeting we have one or two children talk about the influence their Big Brother/Big Sister has had on their lives.  It really reminds us all of the impact we can have on the lives of these young people.  It is very rewarding to know that we can make a difference in our community.