Big Brothers Big Sisters Ellis County
January is also National Mentoring Month, a time to celebrate the significant impact mentors have on our lives, lives of others, and our communities.
Why mentor? We asked our Bigs why they chose to volunteer their time as a 1: 1 mentor, and overwhelmingly, the majority shared with us one or more of the following reasons.
Making a Difference
Many of our Bigs shared that their choice to mentor was driven by the desire to have a positive impact in the life of a youth who needs someone. Whether it's sharing life experiences, offering advice, or simply being a compassionate listener, our mentors know that sharing their time has the potential to reach far beyond the moment and their Little.
“I’m really grateful that I get to have a connection with him and just share our interests and share life.” Jaden, Big Brother
"I became a Big because I wanted to be the best role model for someone that might not have the opportunity or have a lot of people to look up to. It has given me many opportunities to engage with my Little in activities I wouldn't do outside of being a Big!" KeLynn, Big Sister
Connection to their Community
Our mentors find that being a Big is a meaningful way to connect with their community. They see the strength that comes from being part of something larger than themselves, including a sense of unity and support within their local community and other mentors at KSBBBS.
"Becoming a Big is a way to partner with a local family to become a resource, mentor, and all-around positive influence in the life of a child." Delayney, Big Sister
“I wanted to get involved in the community. I had friends who had Bigs. It is fulfilling to get to see your Little blossom into their own person.” Kacie, Big Sister
Being the Mentor They Had/Didn’t Have
Our Bigs are often moved to become mentors based on an experience with their own mentor who played a pivotal role in their life or because they feel that they could have used an additional mentor.
“I just hoped to give someone some of the opportunities that I had and give them some special time.” Reed, Big Brother
"I became a Big because I wanted to help someone who was in the same situation as me growing up. I felt like I could relate." Ysabel, Big Sister
Our Bigs come to us from all walks of life with different reasons for mentoring, but one thing is for certain: their impact on our youth is invaluable and more important than ever. THANK YOU to our big-hearted mentors for changing lives with the gift of their time.
If you’ve ever considered becoming a Big or are planning your New Year’s Goals, now is the time get involved! Celebrate the new year and National Mentoring Month by becoming a friend to a youth who needs that person in their life. Learn more at kansasbigs.org/be-a-big.