Page 6 - Giving Guide_FINAL

6 A TIME FOR GIVING

Despite the hard times,

many found joy.

They’re called Bigs, possibly Big Brothers Big Sisters currently
because of the “big” impact these serves about 300 children every
Big Brothers Big Sisters mentors year, who can go through the
have on a child’s life. program from age 7 to age 18.
Big Brothers Big Sisters has been After age 18, the hope is that these Ahl said it was more successful this a Little with a Big is a very
connecting children (Littles) with young adults will continue to keep year than any other year. thoughtful process, perfected
older mentors (Bigs) for decades; in contact with their Big. “Fundraising is what makes this over the organization’s 42 years.
high school students may become In 2019, the program whole program possible,” Ahl said. Ahl attributes part of that
role models for elementary school estimates that each of its 302 “Without our donors, or our Bigs, success to Big Brothers Big Sisters
students; a woman in STEM may Bigs volunteered approximately this program wouldn’t be possible.” being involved in that match from
partner with an interested youth; 10 hours a month, or 120 hours This year, Big Brothers Big Sisters day one, constantly staying in
a child may, finally, have a strong per year. And, according to the is grateful to Scentsy especially contact with each Big and each
male figure in his life. Independent Sector, the estimated for helping the organization reach Little and their family and offering
There is no cost to a family that national value of each volunteer a significant milestone: paying support, such as encouragement
signs their child up for the Big hour is $27.20. These volunteer off the mortgage on the office to the Bigs.
Brothers Big Sisters program. men and women essentially building. Through the Rock-aThon, A common question Bigs ask is
“Every kid can do with an extra donated $985,728 dollars to Big Big Brothers Big Sisters received what skillset is needed to be part
person in their corner,” said Jane Brothers Big Sisters. nearly $273,600. Now, money of the program; Ahl says “none.”
Ahl, director of development “That’s why we say our that would have gone toward the The minimum commitment to the
for Big Brothers Big Sisters of volunteers are amazing,” Ahl said. mortgage will go to serving more program is one year.
Southwest Idaho. “Figuring out children and their families. “You just have to make a
childhood can be tricky.” Giving your support Community members are commitment to be there for your
And, now especially, every Big Brothers Big Sisters relies encouraged to watch for Big Little,” Ahl said.
parent can do with an extra entirely on contributed funding Brothers Big Sisters’ next As Big Brothers Big Sisters is
person helping. Ahl described that — whether that’s through fundraising campaign this month. always recruiting mentors, Ahl
Bigs can fill roles a single parent, grants, individual contributors or encourages anyone interested
busy parents or grandparents fundraising. This year’s fundraising ‘Igniting the power to visit Big Brothers Big Sisters
need help filling, whether that’s has looked a bit different, with and promise of youth’ website — bbbsidaho.org —
providing a listening ear or the Magical Moments Gala going for more information about
running around outside. virtual for the first time, however, The process of connecting volunteering as a Big. Bigs can

Our mission is to create and
support one-to-one mentoring
relationships that ignite the

power and promise of youth.

TO DONATE GO TO:
bbbsidaho.org