January is National Mentoring Month and Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Chesapeake (BBBSGC) is not only celebrating their many volunteers but challenging others in the community to get involved to help improve the life of local children. There are many different ways to get involved; become mentor, volunteer to serve on a committee or participate in one of the many exciting special events throughout the year such as Bowl for Kids’ Sake, The Biggest Little Tailgate, Golf for Kids’ Sake or MentorZing.
“Big Brothers Big Sisters carefully pairs children who are facing adversity with volunteer mentors who have passed a screening process”, said Jessica Mimms, Eastern Shore Director. “Through the mentoring relationship, families, children and mentors continue to have access to professional support and trainings to help them succeed.”
Research shows Mentoring Works! Big Brothers Big Sisters Youth Outcomes Survey™ (YOS) data finds that 94 percent of Littles in the community-based program maintained or improved their avoidance toward risky behaviors. Eighty-eight percent maintained or improved their parental trust, and 83 percent maintained or improved their scholastic competence.
Several Eastern Shore counties have recognized January 2014 as National Mentoring Month. Wicomico, Worcester, Dorchester, Somerset, Queen Anne’s and Kent Counties have all presented proclamations to BBBSGC. These proclamations encourage county residents to “Be Someone Who Matters to Someone Who Matters.”
Show your support for your local BBBSGC agency on social media at www.facebook.com/BBBSES and www.twitter.com/BigBroBigSis_ES.
Big Brother Big Sisters of the Greater Chesapeake is a nonprofit, youth development organization which is committed to help children reach their fullest potential through professionally supported, one-to-one mentoring relationships and a full range of youth programs with measurable impact. The programs are tailored to the needs of the children and the availability of volunteers. To become a mentor, or to volunteer for any of our events please call 410 543-2447 or visit www.biglittle.org.
Alex Schardt
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Chesapeake
410-543-2447
[email protected]
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