Start Something
The feeling of being a "Big" is
universal. Think back on your own childhood. Who was that special person--other
than a parent--who brought a little magic into your life? Bigs are
"that person" for a child, creating wonderful memories for
themselves--and their Littles.
About the 'Match' -- Bigs and
Littles
Bigs and Littles, and their families,
are from all walks of life and are as diverse as all of America. What
our Littles have in common is a desire to have a Big, plus a parent
or other caring adult in their life who feels they need one. What Bigs
have in common is a willingness to share some fun with a young person.
Bigs consistently say they get even more out of being matched with
their Littles!
It Works!
National research reveals that
Littles are more likely to show positive behaviors in school and at
home than children not matched with a Big. Our matches are effective
because professional staff ensure that the relationships are safe and
rewarding for everyone involved.
Growing Strong
We (the entire organization)
grew by over 20% last year, and our new national goal is to provide
Bigs
to one
million
children
by 2010! To reach our goal, we need two things: volunteers and funds.
Both will assure that many more children will fulfill their potential
as positive members of their communities. It's Little Moments that
make Big Magic!
Welcome to the online home of BBBS of Bradford, Sullivan and Tioga County, PA and Tioga County, NY
Thank you for your interest in
our agency. Feel free to look around and
begin the process of putting some magic into the life of a child and
yourself!
Our Vision
Families in our service area will be safe, well-adjusted,
productive, community-oriented and educated, with an effective support
system. Our Mission
To create and maintain mentoring relationships that
provide positive experiences in the lives of children and mentors.
Our History
BBBS of Bradford County began with a small group of community members who wanted to make a difference in the lives of children. The dream became a reality when the local chapter of BBBS became incorporated in 1991. The first match between an adult and child was in 1993 and over 250 matches have been made since then. Every adult volunteer spends 4 - 8 hours every 2 weeks with their "Little." Over the years the adult volunteers have created magical moments in the lives of children. Many times the adult's impact allows for the relationship to be pivotal in the child's life and at times the relationship extends through adulthood. In 1999 our Big Buddy program began, which matches older students with younger students. This agency maintains full membership in the national organization of Big Brother Big Sisters of America.
The following persons have served as executive directors
of this chapter (in chronological order):
* Dot Basse (6/92 - 7/93)
* Bill Daniels (8/93 - 2/94)
* Karen Beirne (4/94 - 1/96)
* Linda Eaton (1/96 - 1/02)
* Kristy Griffith (1/02 - present)
Make a Difference!
You can help the children of your community by becoming
involved in BBBS in a number of ways:
- Become a Big Brother/Big Sister yourself
or volunteer to help at special events throughout the year
- Assist us with finding appropriate
people to become Big Brothers and Sisters. Children are waiting
for caring, supportive people to
be a part of their lives. Do you know someone who would have the time
and talents to work with children to create special moments in a child's
life? Check out what it takes to become a mentor.
- Any financial support to the program
is welcome.
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