“Our mission is just to provide 1 to 1 mentoring, a stable role model for these kids. So essentially, they just meet every other Wednesday for this program specifically, and they are just there to be a stable person for them. We do activities and curriculum games. Sometimes, it’s just kind of laughing and having fun, and sometimes. They’re talking about maybe things that they want to work on and improve on setting goals for themselves or working on self-confidence and things like that,” explained Mercer.
15 Abilene Christian High School students and 15 TLCA elementary students matched together after completing an application process that helps pair them up with the right match based on interests and personality. Putting child safety at the forefront.
“This high school program and research do show that kids in this program are more likely to have increased self-confidence, do better in school, and have positive relationships with their family and friends. So, it’s neat to see that the research shows that this program positively affects the kids. Essentially, they submit a formal application to be part of the program. We then do a background check. We conduct reference checks. They then come in for a formal interview where we also get to know them more in that way. We also just provide them with a training and resources so that they can really conduct this role in the best way that they can,” added Mercer.
Abilene Christian School Seniors Brynlee Toogood and Ansley House say they learned about the BBBS High School Big Program through their bible teacher at school. Deciding to apply for the program to get out of their comfort zone and share advice with younger students as they were once in their shoes.
“It was definitely a little nerve-wracking because, obviously, you don’t know what to expect. But once you get your little talking and really get to know them, it’s a lot of fun. You get to hear stories about their lives. They get to hear stories about your life,” shared Toogood.
“It’s just fun to be a kid again and just hear what their thoughts are, and it’s like bringing us back to when we were their age,” said House.
Senior Ethan Rhymes and TLCA 5th grader Dallas Jackson have been a match for about a year. Building friendships and sharing advice with one another.
“I think it’s like a really great opportunity because a lot of people don’t get to see an opportunity like this. I think it builds a lot of character and teaches people how to interact with people,” shared Rhymes.
“It’s super fun to meet new people because you never know the opportunities that come with meeting new people,” explained Jackson.
TLCA student Jeremiah Jones tells us this program has helped him become confident as a leader.
“I like how, even if, like, I’ve never talked to them before, they’re still friendly. I feel like I could talk about anything,” added Jones.
These students show how kindness can make a significant impact. January is National Mentorship Month; Mercer is encouraging those interested in being a mentor to visit the Big Brothers Big Sisters website for more information.
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