Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Tennessee Valley looking for mentors

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. ( WHNT ) — The Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Tennessee Valley is an organization dedicated to fostering relationships through a mentorship program.

The Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Tennessee Valley is a partner organization of the United Way of Madison County. Their vision is to see every child achieve their potential no matter what challenges they may be facing.

Ciara White is the Match Support Specialist who says Big Brothers Big Sisters need volunteers or people to become mentors. She says it’s often hard to find an adult to match to a child because they match them based on similar interests.

Ebony Hickson, the interim CEO, said since this organization has been in the area, which has been more than 80 years, they have created a community between people who may not ever have known each other.

Hicks told News 19 that when you become a Little, kids are 46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs, 27% less likely to be using alcohol and 33% less likely to hit someone. Something both White and Hicks said is life-changing for their communities.

To become a mentor, or Big, you have to be at least 18 years old, be able to commit to at least an hour a week for at least a year, be a positive role model and be in good overall physical and mental health, including substance abuse.

For the Littles, you must be genuinely interested in having a relationship with a mentor and be between the ages of six and 13 at the time of enrollment. White said to enroll a child you will just need to submit an application and be interviewed.

If you are looking for more information or are interested in being a mentor or referring a child, visit the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Tennessee Valley website .

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