High School Students Serve as Mentors
April 17, 2009 • written by Jeanna Thyen
“Being a Big Brother or Sister is like no other experience you’ll have in your life. The positive impact you can have on your Little is astounding.” - High School Big Sister
“Big Brothers Big Sisters is a life changing program.” Park High School Big Sister Rachel
“Not only do you teach your Little some important things, but you also learn from your Little.” - High School Big Sister
Currently, 14 Park High School students are mentoring students at Crestview Elementary School through Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Twin Cities (BBBS) School-based Program. Once a week, these students spend an hour with their Little Brother or Sister [mentee]. During their time together, Big Brothers and Sisters (mentors) and Little Brothers and Sisters participate in activities together, including playing outside, creating arts and crafts, reading and competing against each other in a variety of board games.
When asked about his experience in the program, a current High School Big Brother says, “It only takes an hour of my time during the week. It’s worth it because I’m being productive and making a difference.”
By volunteering in the program, students are able to get more involved in their community. They also have the opportunity to serve as role models to younger kids and help them with schoolwork. Bigs are able to create a strong bond with their Littles, and many continue their relationship throughout their high school career.
“I like spending time with my Little and helping her with homework,” says one current High School Big Sister. “I enjoy seeing the growth she has made during the past three years.”
Fifteen high schools throughout the Twin Cities metro area participate in BBBS’ School-based Program, and more than 300 young people are matched with a High School Big Brother or Sister. Big Brothers Big Sisters is grateful to the high school students who volunteer their time to make a difference in the lives of young people.
About BBBS
For 89 years, BBBS has been matching young people ages 7-13 with adult, volunteer mentors. Big Brothers and Big Sisters provide friendship, emotional support and hope to young people. BBBS serves 11 counties in the Twin Cities metro region, including Anoka, Carver, Chisago, Dakota, Hennepin, Isanti, McLeod, Ramsey, Scott, Washington and Wright.
BBBS offers programs to meet the needs of a wide variety of volunteer interests. Community-based mentors meet with their Little Brother or Sister two to four times per month at the locations of their choice. School-based mentors meet with their Little Brother or Sister once per week at the young person’s school. What matters to young people is not what they do with their mentors, but the fact that they have a caring adult in their lives who listens when they talk about their successes, problems, hopes and fears.
Become a Mentor Today! If you or someone you know wants to be a Big Brother or Big Sister call us at 651-789-2400 or visit our website at www.bigstwincities.org. A LITTLE Bit of You Makes a BIG Difference!
651-491-1275
jthyen@bigstwincities.org
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