Seacoast Big Brothers Big Sisters and CrystalVision of Portsmouth winners of Golden Web Award



October 16, 2002, Portsmouth, NH

Dick Ingram from BBBS presents Deb Brewer with Golden Web Award Seacoast Big Brothers Big Sisters and CrystalVision of Portsmouth recently unveiled an informative new Web Site offering the public immediate access to the agency's newly rejuvenated programs and services. The site, www.seacoastbbbs.org, was developed by CrystalVision, a full-service web design and Internet firm located in downtown Portsmouth.

After completion of the project, CrystalVision President and Owner, Deb Brewer submitted the site to the International Association of Web Masters and Designers (I.A.W.M.D.) where it was awarded the 2002-2003 Golden Web Award.

The International Association of Webmasters and Designers, an organization of web-based professionals, boasts an impressive list of sponsors and affiliates including GE, Microsoft, Hertz, K-Mart, Amoco, TTI, Alamo and American Greeting. According to an I.A.W.M.D representative, "The Web Sites submitted are judged and scored in three primary categories: Design, Content and Originality. The criterion for winning remains a challenge to even to the best Webmasters, artists and designers."

Dick Ingram, Executive Director of Seacoast Big Brothers Big Sisters, was excited about the recent recognition citing the impact his Web Site has made in helping to promote the agency. "We were thrilled that CrystalVision received the award and that their talents were recognized among their peers. Since it's launch in July, our site has saved administrative time by offering information on our events and expanded programs. It also helped us in recruiting the volunteers so needed to help make these programs work."

Since joining Seacoast Big Brothers Big Sisters late last year, Ingram has spearheaded a plan to revitalize the Exeter based agency. "The site features our calendar listing of events for our "Bigs and Littles" (referring to the adult brother and sister volunteers and their youth matches) as well as volunteer information and links to our newsletter, which are key. And we know the information is getting out there as we've had over 1500 visitors to the site so far."

When asked why she chose www.seacoastbbbs.org to submit, Brewer explains, "As with other non-profit agencies, Dick was not looking to put together a full-service online advertising campaign with all the bells and whistles. Rather, he looked to us to design a site that would specifically meet the needs of their matches, entice new members and the involvement of businesses while at the same time promote the growth of the agency. We were happy to help him and offer the flexibility of customizing our services to fulfill his needs."

In addition to design and programming services, CrystalVision includes Seacoast Big Brothers Big Sisters in their Search Engine Optimization Program allowing for priority placement of the site on major search engines. To expand market reach and gain support from businesses and the community, future plans include an expansion of the site's member/community section, placement in local online directories as well as targeted emails to businesses.

"With the help of Deb and her crew," says Ingram, "we were able to join the 21st century while staying within the budget of a non-profit." Brewer responds, "We were happy to be there to support the work they do in the community."

Seacoast Big Brothers Big Sisters is one of five Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies in New Hampshire serving young people who need an older role model in their lives. Big Brothers Big Sisters recruit and train volunteer mentors. Once they are matched with a "Little" brother or sister, agency staff provides ongoing support for the relationship. Anyone interested in experiencing the rewards of being a "Big" or who wants more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters, is encouraged to call the office at 603.778.0277 or visit them online at www.seacoastbbbs.org.

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