Big Brothers Big Sisters
United Way Education Partner
601.596.3488 or 601.596.3499 | www.bbbsms.org | Send Email
Who Are They?
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Pine Belt is a non-profit organization receiving funding through United Way, community and corporate contributions, as well as agency fundraisers. The mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of children - youth primarily - through a professionally supported one-to-one relationship with a caring adult and to assist them in achieving their highest potential as they grow up to become confident, competent, caring individuals by providing committed volunteers, national leadership and standard of excellence. The role of the “BIG” (adult) is to be a friend to a “LITTLE” (child) who is struggling academically, displaying behavioral problems, experiencing family problems, seems withdrawn, or is simply a child in need of a friend. Big Brothers Big Sisters offers two mentoring programs for volunteers: the Community-Based program and the Site-Based program. Big Brothers Big Sisters has two offices to serve the greater Pine Belt area.
What Does United Way's Funding Do?
United Way funds help the Big Brothers Big Sisters offices manage the community and site based mentoring programs in Hattiesburg and Petal.
The Impact of Your United Way Investment
"Littles" in the community-based and site-based programs feel safer, more important and closer to their mentor after one year of being matched with their "big." These "littles" will grow to become more confident individuals and more productive citizens in our community.
Volunteer Needs
Mentors, both male and female, are always needed to provide a caring one on one relationship with a child between the ages of 5-15. High school students are welcome for school-based mentoring. Volunteers are also needed for assistance with monthly activities, games and activities for school mentoring programs. A background check is required for volunteers.
Meet Nadine and Destiney
Nadine Coleman has been Destiney’s big sister since 2001. Destiney was in kindergarten when her mother was incarcerated. Since then, Nadine has assumed the role as Destiney’s main cheerleader, encourager, counselor, surrogate mother and friend. Nadine makes a point to communicate with Destiney’s teachers on a daily basis to check on her academics and behavior. The pair work on homework and school projects together. Nadine assures Destiney that she will be there for her until high school graduation and as long as she needs her. At times, Nadine feels her presence with Destiney is all that is needed for her to feel safe and secure. This pair represents what Big Brothers Big Sisters is all about - a lasting relationship with a positive role model which both the “big” and “little” enjoy.