Press Releases:

MYCP Recruits 20 Big Brothers, Big Sisters

KEY WEST (432 words) -- High school students often work with mentors to increase their potential for success but this group of 20 students are the mentors to a few deserving youngsters at Glenn Archer Elementary in Key West. In a partnership between Monroe Youth Challenge Program and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Monroe County, MYCP Lower Keys Prevention Coordinator Mindy Vinson recruited 20 mentors also known as “Bigs” from Key West High School students who are willing to go to Glenn Archer once a week and work with “Littles” -- a little sister or brother. Vinson said, “These Key West High School students are doing this to ‘Be The Change.’ They want to make a difference for the kids at Glenn Archer and in their community.”

As part of the school-based mentoring program, Bigs and Littles meet for one-to-one mentoring in the classroom, school library, school computer room, neighborhood community center, or other set location. Bigs and Littles typically meet once a week to read together, play sports or computer games, or simply talk about life and personal issues – just as friends do.

According to Big Brothers Big Sisters, school-based mentoring is not a tutoring program. However, research has shown that of all children matched with a Big in school: 58% improved their school performance;

65% showed higher levels of self-confidence; and 55% had a better attitude toward school.

Vinson said, “Our Bigs and Littles have fun together — and create memories that last a lifetime. Big Brothers Big Sisters call it ‘Little moments … Big magic.’” Other research on this volunteer program points to the powerful, positive, lasting impact Bigs have on children’s lives. Littles are: 52% less likely to skip school; 46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs; and more likely to get along with their families and peers.

“For the Thanksgiving holiday the mentors plan to take an Autumn cardboard tree and leaf stickers to their littles and write things they are thankful for on the leaves,” said Vinson.

The eight Key West High School volunteer mentors are Steven Brown, Sara Burkard, Jackie Hancock, Nicole Mongelli, Alyssa Perez, Angela Rainer, Cassandra Shapiro, and Sheri Yoest. For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters, contact: BBBS of Monroe County, Inc., 1400 United Street, Suite 111, Key West, FL 33040; bbbs1@bellsouth.net; (305) 294-9891.

Monroe Youth Challenge Program is a project of the Monroe County Education Foundation to foster acceptance, respect, and success in the youth of Monroe County. For more information about this project or any other MYCP-sponsored program call MYCP Lower Keys Prevention Coordinator Mindy Vinson at (305) 293-1549 ext. 422 or visit www.monroe.k12.fl.us/mycp.