Big Brothers Big Sisters “Big Buddies” Program off to a Great Start

“Both Big Buddies and Little Buddies get so much out of the friendships they form through the “Big Buddies” after school programs” Said Executive Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters Jennifer Bruns. “It truly is a win win situations for everyone involved. The kids really look up to their Big Buddies and look forward to seeing them each session. We have Littles asking their teachers daily when the next Big Buddies session will be”

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby and Darke County is excited to announce that another great year is in the works for the Big Buddies after-school program. The Buddies program is a nine-month commitment where high school freshman through seniors volunteer to work with and mentor elementary aged children two times per month. During these meetings the high school students, under the supervision of Big Brothers Big Sisters staff, work with one or two children on different educational and recreational activities. This year’s curriculum focus will be The 7 Habits of Happy Kids.

All seven of our afterschool programs are up and running and the Bigs & Littles are excited about the upcoming year’s activities with their mentors. However, it is not too late to sign up to be a friend, have fun, earn some valuable experiences, and be a role model to a Little in Darke & Shelby County. Last year Big Brothers Big Sisters served over 400 youth through our mentoring programs in the two county area.

Big Brothers Big Sisters currently has programs at Emerson, Longfellow, Northwood, & Whittier elementary schools which are all Sidney City Schools. In Darke county locations at Ansonia Elementary, Versailles Elementary, and Woodland Primary.

Check out one of our returning matching enjoying the nice weather at the Emerson after school program in October. Brandi Motsinger (daughter of Tim & Bonnie Stockstill) and James Henry (son of Ndeye Henry) couldn’t wait to see each other again for the 1st session of the big buddies program. This match is just one of many that are making an impact in the lives of children in both Darke & Shelby County.

Don’t forget there is still time to sign up!!! We have an exciting year ahead of us and are searching for Shelby & Darke County high school students to join our program. Please call the office at 937-492-7611 or 937-547-9622 or logo into our website at www.bigbrobigsis-shelbydarke.org for more information. Big Brothers Big Sisters is proud to be a United Way Partner agency.