Helping Hands Initiative: Big Brothers Big Sisters

If you're interested in volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters, you can find more information online

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Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Permian Basin helps children learn and grow through one-on-one mentorships.

“We match them with a caring adult, a role model that way they know they have a friend, cheerleader and a confidant,” explained Molly Murphy, the Resource Development Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Permian Basin.

There are two basic types of mentorships with Big Brother Big Sisters: the school-based program -- which asks for 45 minutes per week during the school year, or the community-based program -- which suggests 6-8 hours a month with your little. Whatever program you choose to volunteer in, the organization works hard to ensure you and your little are a natural fit.

“They’re very intuitive and they try to match the kids' personalities the best way possible,” said Adalinda Carl, a mother who’s had two kids in the program. “That is what made us stay in the program so long - the matches were great.”

There are currently about 100 littles matched with bigs, and almost another 100 children waiting for a big.

“We're not asking you to fix their world, we're not asking you to change everything -- we're just asking you to be a friend,” explained Murphy.

In the end, it’s not just the child who will benefit.

“By giving that child your support and friendship, in return, our community is going to get a better employee, a better neighbor, a better friend --- and we will all be enriched by you spending time with that child,” Murphy stated.