Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby and Darke County is excited to announce that another great year of the Big Buddies program is up and running. This is the thirteenth year the program has been in place. The Buddies program is an eight-month commitment where high school sophomores, juniors and seniors agree 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. The program continues to promote social and educational enhancing activities, as well as fitness, nutrition, and personal safety.
The Buddies program this year is at a total of five different sites in both counties for the 2012-2013 school year. These sessions are held at Woodland Heights and Versailles in Darke County, as well as Longfellow, Northwood, and Whittier Elementary Schools in Shelby County. “This is a phenomenal program where local high school students can mentor a young child, earn community service hours and truly have an impact on the life of another person,” stated Executive Director Lisa Brown. Programs are made possible by the Ruth Emerson Fund of Versailles, the Hope Foudnation through the Ami McClurkin Community Fund and United Way of Shelby & Darke Counties.
High school mentoring programs have become a widespread component of many nationally affiliated Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies. Studies prove that children who may be facing adversity or considered at risk, who spend time with a positive role model are more likely to become healthy productive adults. The Big Buddies program has proven beneficial not only for the “Littles” but for the high school volunteers, as well. September 20th is the deadline for High School Students to register for this program. The agency accepts High School students from all schools throughout Shelby and Darke County.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke County is a United Way member agency and an affiliate of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. If you would like more information about how to become a volunteer, you may visit the agency web site at www.bigbrobigsis-shelbydarke.org or call the Sidney office at (937)492-7611 or the Greenville office at (937)547-9622.