Promoting Mentoring in our Communities with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America
“Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.” Ralph Waldo Emerson
I feel that this quote holds true and expresses my passion for Big Brothers Big Sisters. Today, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America serves over 225,000 children ages five to 18 in 5,000 communities across the country. The service is based on volunteers that are friends to children by sharing everyday activities and expanding horizons. When a child is matched with a Big Brother or Big sister for at least a year, studies have shown that “Littles” are less likely to begin using illegal drugs, consume alcohol, skip school and classes, or engage in acts of violence. They have greater self-esteem, confidence, in their schoolwork performance, and are able to get along better with their friends and families. I would like to spread my enthusiasm for Big Brothers Big Sisters as a spokesperson for this organization.
I feel that I know the real capabilities of this program from my experiences and can be an ambassador for this program as Miss Pennsylvania. Currently as a Big Sister, I spend time with with my Little Sister, Shawndasia. I have been able to witness the positive effects of this program first-hand through our experiences, and want to help others provide knowledge and guidance to children that will have positive influences on their lives.
In addition, I have worked to promote this organization to others. Throughout the Greater Pittsburgh Area, I have dedicated my time as an advocate for mentoring as the Coordinator of “Big for a Day” Programs in conjunction with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh and Pittsburgh Cares. These events provide a single day, one-on-one, mentoring program for students of Pittsburgh Colleges and Universities and children of Big Brothers Big Sisters, and also foster the beginning of matches. Furthermore, these events help to find other individuals that share my passion for helping children reach their full potential. Participants can help in the future as volunteers in the quest of promoting this program to its fullest, by spreading the “Big for a Day” model throughout the state. The “Big for a Day” model can be used at colleges and universities all over Pennsylvania by working with existing Big Brothers Big Sisters local agencies to create awareness about the program and build new matches. The volunteers can extend the “Big for a Day” model presented at their college or university to local high schools and surrounding communities, and therefore reach children throughout the entire commonwealth.
As Miss Pennsylvania, I would continue my work and spend my year of service promoting the importance of mentoring in communities across the state. The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters is to build long lasting friendships that allow children to build self-confidence and broaden their horizons. I feel by helping our youth, we are influencing the future and making a difference. It is never too late to start and people of all ages can become involved. Therefore, with my Platform, I feel strongly that very child deserves a friend; someone to look up to and someone who cares!