ATLANTA BIG SISTER NAMED BY COCA-COLA AS ONE OF 20
TORCHBEARERS FOR VANCOUVER 2010 OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES

ATLANTA, OCTOBER 22, 2009 – An Atlanta-based Big Sister is among 20 Americans chosen by Coca-Cola to be a Torchbearer for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay.

Liz Burns, matched 3 years ago to Little Sister Chloe through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta, and her fellow Torchbearers were selected because of the significant contributions they have made in promoting healthy, active lifestyles, community involvement or recycling.   

Burns has been a consistent role model for13-year old Chloe since 2006.  She takes her on community service outings, shares family recipes, and coaches her on homework and social graces.  Burns also spends quality time with Chloe’s mother, with whom she has grown increasingly close, providing professional and personal guidance and support. In addition, Burns volunteers with a number of other organizations, serving as vice president of the board of directors for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Georgia chapter and volunteering with Hosea Feed the Hungry & Homeless and Habitat for Humanity.  She also traveled to Mississippi to do relief work after hurricane Hugo. 

"Becoming a mentor was a little intimidating at first, but my life is much richer because of the experiences my little sister and I have shared.  Spending time and learning and growing together, whether it's through a Big Brothers Big Sisters activity, working in the community, or simply hanging out is one of the most rewarding things I do."

The Torchbearers will carry the Olympic Flame through Calgary, Canada, on January 18-19, 2010 as it makes its way to Vancouver and the Opening Ceremony for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games on February 12, 2010. Read more about Burns’ support of Big Brothers Big Sisters and her other favorite charities at www.livepositively.com.