Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeastern New Mexico: is an affiliate agency with the United Way of Chaves County. The sole mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeastern New Mexico is to change a child’s life for the better, forever. Our program matches children, ages 6-17, with adult volunteers in meaningful one-to-one relationships. At the heart of our programs is an adult role model (Big)
including an “at risk" child (Little) in everyday activities. This simple yet generous act of inclusion and friendship builds trust and creates long-term bonds that can help direct a child to a better future. Our typical Little lives with single parent, court appointed guardian or with grandparents. About half are classified as living at or below the poverty level. About 50% are Hispanic males. Most are elementary school age. Most Littles are referred to our agency by their parent or guardian. We also get referrals from school counselors and other social service agencies. A Case Manager interviews each little and their family to determine needs, interests and personality traits. A Big is a mature adult (18 years and older) who is interested in being a part of a child's life for four hours per month for a minimum of nine months. There are no special skills or experience needed to be a Big. Just spending time and talking and listening can make
a difference in the life of a child. What is the application process to become a Big? Call Big Brothers Big Sisters to make an appointment. During a personal and confidential interview with one of the Case Managers, the program goals and expectations are explained. Because child safety is our top priority, a thorough background check will be performed before any match is made. Based upon the interview, the volunteer will be matched with a compatible child. What support does BBBS provide the Big to insure the success of the match? Before being introduced to the Little, the Big is given a 2 hour training course on the do’s and don’ts of the match. Any special interests or needs of the Little will be discussed. A case Manager will be present at the initial match introduction. Once each month, the Big will be contacted by the Case Manager to see how the match is going, and to offer assistance on any areas of concern. Does the program work? A recent independent study conducted by a national research firm (Public/Private
Ventures examined the impact of our program on youth and found that when compared to their unmentored peers, Little Brothers and Little Sisters who met with their Big
Brothers or Sisters for at least one year were:
• 46% less likely to start using drugs;
• 27% less likely to start drinking;
• 33% less likely to act violently;
• 52% less likely to skip a day of school
• 73% more likely to achieve higher grades
Currently through the first nine months of this year (2013), Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeastern New Mexico has served 60 children in Chaves County. However, we still have 20 children currently waiting for a Big Brother or Big Sister. If you think you might be interested, we are always in need of additional volunteers who want to step up and become a Big –especially men! The United Way of Chaves County allows you an effective and efficient way to help 13 different agencies with one donation. BBBS is an affiliate agency, which means that we receive only those funds specifically designated to us. So please give or pledge generously, and if you desire, designate part of your gift to BBBS of SENM. Thank you
