Mentoring is, simply, putting a friend in a child' life to put hope in his/her future. A Big Brother or Sister and his/her Little meet about one hour a week at the child's school, program location, or in the community (sites depend on which BBBS program the child is part of). The pair share activities any friends might enjoy, such as having lunch, playing games, watching a movie, doing an art project, or just talking.
As simple as it may sound, studies show mentoring makes a BIG difference in a child’s life. Littles are:
46% less likely to start using drugs
52% less likely to skip a day of school, and
one-third less likely to hit someone
In 2006, children participating in BBBS of NELA experienced the following positive outcomes:
56% increased ability to express feelings
65% increased self-confidence
51% improved classroom behavior
63% improved academic behavior
61% improved relationships with peers
41% improved relationships with family
61% improved relationships with other adults
64% improved attitude toward school
58% improved school preparedness
For more information, call BBBS of NELA at (318) 323-9034.