More than 100 children across Westchester and Putnam counties are on a waitlist for a volunteer mentor through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Westchester & Putnam, the organization announced Wednesday, July 22.
The nonprofit, which has paired adult volunteers with young people for six decades, says it cannot match those kids without more residents stepping up. BBBS WP serves communities throughout both counties, according to the organization's website.
How to volunteer
To become a "Big," volunteers must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Complete an application, interview, training, and background check
- Commit to spending four to six hours per month with a mentee over at least two outings for at least one year
- Provide a safe and healthy experience for the child in their care
Residents can apply here.
BBBS WP cites research showing mentored youth are more likely to enroll in higher education and report improved behavioral outcomes, including increased salaries and reduced dependency on social services. Without more volunteers, the organization says, those children will remain unmatched.
Mentees report feeling more confident in school and with peers, according to the announcement published on Scarsdale10583.com by editor Joanne Wallenstein.
"It keeps me young. I love being part of such an important community of giving people. It's gratifying to see my 'Little' beginning to make good decisions about her own future," one volunteer mentor said in the organization's recruitment appeal.
