Big Brothers Big Sisters seeks volunteers
As the school year gets into full swing, Big Brothers Big Sisters reminds the community that more than 50 children are in need of a caring mentor in Leavenworth County.
Big Brothers Big Sisters is now taking volunteers for the school-based and community-based mentoring programs.
“Many people think they don’t have time to be a Big Brother or Big Sister,” said Mona Kerns, development director for Leavenworth County Big Brothers Big Sisters. “People are surprised to learn it only takes 30 to 45 minutes a week to volunteer in our school-based program. It is a great way for busy people to make a big difference.”
The school-based program, Bigs In Schools, pairs volunteers to at-risk students in their community. Volunteers help students with homework or have fun playing games. The “Big” and “Little” meet at the child’s school during the lunch hour or after school.
More than three-quarters of Kansas children waiting for a mentor are boys. With a great need for male volunteers, the Bigs In Schools program seeks to accommodate a working volunteer’s schedule.
The program has experienced substantial growth through partnerships with Kansas businesses. Business partners support Big Brothers Big Sisters by encouraging their employees to volunteer through the school-based program during their lunch breaks.
“We are hopeful that local businesses will get involved in this new program,” said Dawn DeArmond, CEO of Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters. “The flexible hours of the Bigs In Schools program has opened doors for new volunteers. The impact these volunteers are making in Kansas in just 30 minutes a week is priceless.”
For more information about the Bigs In Schools program or how you can get involved, please call 888-KS4-BIGS or visit www.ksbbbs.org.