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community: Feb-01-2007
Big Brothers Big Sisters of NYC
About BBBS of NYC and how I got involved
Late last October I found myself leaning against a bar, sipping a cocktail and waiting for a knife thrower to begin his demonstration. It was at that unlikely moment that I met Lauren Fishman of Big Brothers, Big Sisters of New York City. They were one of the sponsors of the night and we began talking about the program she was involved with called 9/11 Together We Stand.
In response to the tragic events of September 11th, Big Brothers Big Sisters NYC initiated this program in order to provide long-term help for children who lost a parent or close relative in the World Trade Center attacks. This program appealed to me because, like many others in the area, I knew people killed on 9/11 who had children. As hard as it was for me to adjust after that day, I couldn’t imagine what it was like for these children.
In addition to the 9/11 program, there are many great ways a person can get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Since creating the first formalized mentoring program in the United States in 1904, their mission has been to provide caring, adult mentors and role models to children in need. Studies have shown that a stable adult influence is the number one factor in preventing the development of serious problems in a child’s life.
Why get involved?
Because the results among children in the program are impressive:
- 67% improve school attendance and grades
- 73% stay out of trouble with the law
- 87% increase self-esteem
My goal here is to help spread the word of the great work this group does and to try and inspire folks to volunteer. About twice each month I will be posting match stories about volunteers and the children they help. If you would like to learn more about the work Big Brothers Big Sisters does, or to get information on how you can volunteer, please click here.
See Also:
About Bigs NYC
Become a Volunteer
Make a Donation
Read Match Stories
Visit BBBS of NYC Online