In Just One Hour

When talking with individuals who are interested in volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters, many want to know if mentoring a child just one hour per week really makes a difference.  My answer is always, "most definitely"!  I am a Big Sister as well as the Program Manager for Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Johns County and I've seen how much one person can impact a child in as little as one hour per week. 

I mentor a little boy named Tomie.  In just one hour, I connect with him.  I give him my undivided attention, I do not judge him and I am authentic when I voice that I want him to achieve success in life.   The connection blossoms when he becomes engaged in conversation and begins to let me into his world.  The look in his eyes, when he realizes that I genuinely care about him, reminds me of how much I love working for Big Brothers Big Sisters and why mentoring is so important.  

Mentoring is about relationships, connections and positive impact.  Impact can appear in the form of a smile, increased confidence or excitement about a class assignment.  In just one hour per week, we can give a child the confidence to overcome challenges, improve relationships and avoid risky behaviors.  Working with and mentoring children bring such joy to my life.  I want to share with others that, in just one hour, you can do some awesome things for our community.  For more information, contact us by calling (904) 829-9986 or submitting a contact form.  - Jaime David

Jaime & Tomie Celebrating the Holidays