National Volunteer Month
Every young person deserves to feel welcomed, seen, and celebrated. At Big Brothers Big Sisters, we create spaces where young people can show up as their full, authentic selves—connecting with volunteer mentors who uplift, empower, and inspire.
This #NationalVolunteerMonth we celebrate our BBBS network of volunteers that dedicate their time as mentors, Bigs, supporters, and champions of our mission. As part of the nation’s largest volunteer-supported mentoring network, we at BBBS of Washington County are inspired by our volunteer’s impact—past, present, and future— that shapes lives and strengthens communities.
Big Sister Susie has found great joy in forming her strong, intergenerational relationship with her Little Sister Anasya. They attend Big Brothers Big Sisters’ iSucceed events together, which focus on career readiness, and enjoy trying new things together and finding ways to stay active, particularly with playing tennis. Susie also has a strong bond with Anayasa’s mother; the two frequently meet for coffee! Susie continues to show that she is invested in Anayasa’s future!
It’s relationships like this that make us believe that when every young person has access to a positive mentor, it transforms their lives for the better - empowering them with a stronger sense of belonging, and the opportunity to learn, lead and grow. In fact, a recent study proved this very point; 94% of Littles saying they have confidence in achieving their goals, and 93% said having adults who care for them is important to achieving their goals!
And the impressive results don’t stop there; in our 56 years of serving Washington County, we continue to see how the youth we serve have little involvement with the law and avoid risky behaviors, such as drugs, alcohol, and truancy. A Public/Private ventures study found that after spending time with their Bigs, littles were 46% less likely to use drugs, 26% less likely to use alcohol, and 52% less likely to skip school!
This meaningful feedback makes it clear that the power of mentorship leads to bright futures for youth in our very own community; it makes a BIG difference in the individual life of a child, but also in our society.
Big Brother Jason cherishes his relationship with his Little Brother Patrick; by having Patrick in his life, Jason says that he has not only gained a little brother, but an entirely new family: Patrick’s family! This match knows that they will be in each other’s lives for many years to come.
When young people are part of BBBS of Washington County, they have a community of supportive, caring relationships that empower them to thrive in life. Mentorship is a transformative solution not only for young people, but also for our local economy and society. Thank you for providing youth with the guidance and support needed to become the leaders and change-makers of tomorrow. Let’s continue to make a BIG difference together. #BiggerTogether #BeBig
