BBBS Undertaking A Massive Recruitment Campaign Now
Posted
Staff Report-
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana is undertaking a massive recruitment campaign to enlist 500 new Bigs, School Buddies and volunteers in only 50 days.
Right now there are more than 500 local children waiting to be matched with a mentor. Based in Fort Wayne, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana is a local branch of the nation’s largest donation- and volunteer-supported mentoring network, according to a provided news release. Big Brothers Big Sisters believes every child has the innate ability to grow and succeed. The organization facilitates meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers and children in search of a mentor, the release states.
These positive relationships have a direct and lasting effect on young people’s lives, particularly those from disadvantaged socioeconomic demographics. Some volunteers meet with their Little every weekend to catch a ball game or visit a restaurant together; others meet once a month to hang out and watch TV. But as Chief Development Officer Shelley Schwab says, “No matter how much time a Big spends with a Little, it’s time well spent.”
Big Brother and long-time Journal Gazette reporter Larry Rubama agrees.
“Every child can benefit from a Big, so long as that Big is committed,” said Rubama. “The greatest thing an adult can do to help out is to contact Big Brothers Big Sisters today. Whether you donate your money or your time, it’ll be worth it.
“Give back,” Rubama said. “There are many broken kids out there who need love and help. This is the perfect way to change a young person’s life forever.”
Local adults can become part of the campaign by signing up to volunteer, referring a friend, hosting a presentation or simply spreading the word. Those who share a Big Brothers Big Sisters campaign post to social media with the hashtag #500bigs will also be entered to win a prize along with those who submit referrals directly to the agency. Prizes include a one-year zoo membership, four tickets to Cedar Point, a $100 gift card and tickets to the Indianapolis Colts.
To become a volunteer or donate to Big Brothers Big Sisters, visit www.bbbsnei.org.
