Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentoring Program Makes Positive Impact on Local Youth
Local children have access to one of the largest and most recognized volunteer mentoring services in the nation, thanks to Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Wood County.
Covering Wood and Clark Counties, as well as a couple of cities in Marathon County, the United Way- sponsored program provides children with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever.
“Imagine growing up having one person you could always turn to in need, ask questions to without being judged, someone to guide you in a positive direction, a cheerleader when you need the support,” said Heidi Goblirsch, Executive Director.
“We want to help shape our youth to become the best they can be and see all children achieve success in their lives. We develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people.”
There are many simple ways to get involved in BBBS, including sharing information about the program and fundraising for the program. Inviting BBBS to speak at a group or gathering, volunteering to help with mass mailings, sponsoring events, serving on the Board of Directors or various committees, and becoming a monthly donor are other ways to get involved.
Perhaps most importantly, volunteering to be a Big or signing a child up to be a Little are key to the program’s success.
“Being a Big Brother or Big Sister is one of the most enjoyable things you’ll ever do. Not to mention, one of the most fulfilling,” said Goblirsch. “You have the opportunity to help shape a child’s future for the better by empowering him or her to achieve. And the best part is, it’s actually a lot of fun.”
Being a Big is as easy as sharing already loved activities with a Little.
“Play sports together. Go on a hike. Read books. Eat a pizza with extra pepperoni. Or just give some advice and inspiration,” said Goblirsch. “Whatever it is you enjoy, odds are you’ll enjoy it even more with your Little—and you’ll be making a life-changing impact. All we ask is for 1 hour per week to hang out with your new friend.”
The application process is simple.
“After we have received your application, we’ll complete the necessary background checks to ensure the children in our program remain safe,” said Goblirsch. “Then you’ll work with our specially trained staff who will learn more about you – what motivates you, what you enjoy doing in your free time, and what child might be best to match you with.”
After being matched, BBBS helps Bigs get to know their Little by suggesting activities to complete together, providing discount cards to local businesses, and checking in to make sure things are going well.
“When questions arise, our staff will be here to help navigate your Big-Little relationship, whether you’ve been matched for one year or ten,” said Goblirsch.
This year, the program celebrates 50 years serving local communities.
“To celebrate 50 years is a tremendous accomplishment and we couldn’t have lasted this long without the support of the communities we serve,” said Goblirsch.
The Big Brothers Big Sisters organization, with help from a Leadership Marshfield group, is celebrating this accomplishment by hosting a Gala to help celebrate the success of 50 years of service.
Hosted at the Holiday Inn on March 11, starting at 5:30pm, anyone interested can find information on the BBBS website.
“The group’s main focus is to bring awareness to the need of the children in our community and help financially support Big Brothers Big Sisters, since all of our services are free for volunteers and families,” said Goblirsch. “We are very excited for this Gala: A Little Gala for a Big Cause, to be the talk of the town!”
For more information about the program, e-mail BBBS or call 715-387-6198.