Big Brothers Big Sisters joins with our partner schools across Cumberland and Salem Counties to kick off the 2018-2019 School Year, looking forward to BIG things this year!  This September and October, adults and high school students will see one another for the first time this school year, the first of many exciting lunches or after-school get-togethers for the year!

Each week, Bigs spend 45-60 minutes with Littles in both of our School Based Mentoring Programs.  This short amount of time makes a world of difference for each Little, giving them the encouragement to succeed in school, make positive friendships, build self-confidence, and set goals for their future.

Bigs in the Adult School Based Mentoring Program have lunch with a child during the child’s school day at partnering schools in Vineland (D’Ippolito and Durand Schools), Millville (Holly Heights School, Silver Run and Lakeside Schools), Bridgeton (Broad Street and Indian Ave Schools), and Salem (Salem Middle School).  In addition to chatting over lunch, Bigs and Littles might also play card games, go for a walk outside, or draw together, exploring shared interests and learning about one another.

High school students in the High School Mentoring Program meet one-to-one with elementary students after school weekly to share an after-school snack, work on homework, play games, and socialize.  Current programs include Durand Elementary School (Vineland), West Avenue and Cherry Street Schools (Bridgeton), and Mary S. Shoemaker Elementary School (Woodstown).

One parent, Shantell, shared about her daughter’s experience with her Big Sister last year, “She can finally have someone to talk to outside of the family.” Little Sister Dominique’s favorite thing about her Big Sister is the love she shares “like a real sister.”  As these children transition to the new school year, having a Big Brother or Big Sister helps them overcome the challenges that might otherwise keep them back:  loss of one or both parents; lack of resources such as transportation, phone communication, or adequate nutrition; difficulties with peers; or academic struggle.  Help us reach our goal to match thirty more children in the Adult School Based Mentoring Program this fall!