This week on Giving Inexpensively I want to share about a wonderful organization called Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS). One could always donate to this organization but I want to share about another way to help and that is by becoming a mentor. The mission of BBBS, according to their website, is “to help children reach their potential through professionally supported, one-to-one relationships with mentors that have a measurable impact on youth”.
When I was away at college I was a mentor through BBBS, and it was a great experience. After filling out an application, going through the background check, and talking to someone from the organization on the phone, I (the “big”) was matched with my “little”. Because I was a student without a job, we did things that didn’t cost a lot of money like coloring and having pizza & movie night. I really enjoyed the afternoons that we spent together.
If you are interested in finding out more about how you can become a mentor through Big Brothers Big Sisters you can visit their website (Be a Big Sister or Be A Big Brother). I love that you don’t have to be wealthy, famous, or have a lot of time on your hands to make a positive impact on a child’s life.
~ The heart of a volunteer is not measured in size, but by the depth of the commitment to make a difference in the lives of others. ~ DeAnn Hollis
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I was a Big Sis in college too! It was amazing how thrilled she was just to hang out in my dorm. These kids don’t need a lot of money or expensive outings – just attention!
Big Brothers/Big Sisters is a wonderful program. I was a big for awhile about 15 years ago and it was a very rewarding experience. My husband was a big for 14 years! He’s still in touch with his ‘little’ who is now 20 and out on his own. They formed a terrific bond and spent a lot of time together. Truly, as Heather stated, it’s not about expensive or extravagant outings. Sure, they’d go to movies or the local museums but it was more about the hanging out.
It is a commitment, but as for weekly time it’s not intensive. Thank you for sharing about this organization, as it really does serve the needs of each person’s local community. It is a very good way to give back on the local level. And make a difference.