Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona (BBBSCA) is sounding the alarm for male mentorship, as a significant mentoring gap persists. Despite endeavors to balance the scales, the organization is still courting male volunteers to guide and inspire young boys and men. According to information obtained by ABC15, more than 100 youngsters in the Valley are on standby for male figures willing to share time, wisdom, and experiences, contributing just a few hours a month to potentially transform a life.
With the NFL Draft poised later this month to blend the passion for sports with social responsibility, the league is stepping up to run a play for the community by partnering with Big Brothers Big Sister. This collaboration aims to recruit mentors and influence change in young lives. A "big" with Big Brothers Big Sisters Arizona is expected to convene with a "little" up to four times monthly for one year, affecting higher aspirations and greater confidence in the mentees, as ABC15 reported.
In a spirited state-wide campaign dubbed “Be Bold Be Big,” BBBSCA is racing to amass as many male mentors as possible. Drew Shaw, a current mentor, highlighted the joy and import of his role in an interview with azfamily.com. “I’m on a mission to recruit as many men to become a Big as possible,” Shaw shared. Jessica Whitney, a BBBSCA spokesperson, revealed 160 boys are waiting for a match – with some in the West Valley on standby for several years, underscoring a sharp need.
BBBSCA is also introducing "Lunch and Learn" sessions to pitch the mentorship program to local businesses and recruit participants. Prospective volunteers must be over 18, driver's license holders, and insured motorists. A year's commitment to meet with a mentee two to four times a month is another critical volunteer requirement .azfamily.com reported on the initiative's details and how interested individuals can sign up for the cause.
For those wishing to take the step and become mentors, or to know more about the mentorship program in the Phoenix area, BBBSCA provides a platform to apply. There's a responsibility, a simplicity, and a beauty in potentially steering a child towards greater possibilities – one meeting, one moment at a time.
