Together, we are changing what it means to grow up in America.
Bigs and Littles have fun together - and create memories that last a lifetime. We call it "Little moments ... Big magic." Research on our volunteer programs 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
- More likely to get along with their families and peers
Proven positive impact on children and communities.
In our lives, each of us shared an important connection with someone who broadened our horizons and brought a little magic into our lives.
It was the person who taught you to throw that perfect spiral, or sat in the front row to cheer you on, even when it was embarrassing. These are the little moments that Big Brothers and Big Sisters experience every day.
This real life story is just one way Big Brothers Big Sisters is changing lives and communities forever.
Lori Finds an Angel
As someone with strong convictions and a fighting spirit, Lori McCauley wanted to get involved with an organization where she could give back in a big way. A friend on a Big Brothers Big Sisters board let her know that the best way to give back in a big way was to become a Big. So Lori found her local Big Brothers Big Sisters agency (Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mercer Auglaize and Van Wert Counties) and soon was Big Sister Lori to Little Sister Angel, a young girl who herself has strong convictions and a fighting spirit. Truly a wonderful match.
Lori and Angel have done many things together. But Lori’s commitment to Big Brothers Big Sisters goes well beyond the time she spends with Lori. As she’s seen the positive results of our program, she’s become a strong and continual advocate. She puts together teams for Bowling for Kids’ Sake and has company teams out golfing during Golf for Kids’ Sake.
Lori writes letters for United Way and other grants, she has spearheaded events to raise money, and she even has sold hot dogs. She commits her time, often makes financial contributions, and is always willing to pitch in and help with anything needing to be done. Seeing all this, Angel has pitched in and now Angel and Lori work together doing community service, walking during United Way fundraising walks, and helping out any way they can.
As Lori and Angel’s bond has strengthened, Lori has also grown closer to Lori’s mother, twin sister, and brother. Angel and her twin Annie have a disorder called neurofibromatosis which has led to Angel developing cancer. So in addition to all the fun things they do together, Big Lori and Little Angel are fighting this disease together. And Lori, being the exceptional Big she is, has become so involved that she is now considered a part of the family. In Angel’s mother Rosemary’s words, “Angel has an awesome Big Sister. Lori has become a very important part of my family because she is always there (even for me).”
Not only does Lori help Big Brothers Big Sisters in so many ways. Not only does she provide such amazing support to Little Sister Angel and her family. She wants to do more and inspire everyone to become involved. As she says, “this program has allowed me and those around me to witness what volunteering can do for everyone.” Big Sister Lori, an inspiration for everyone. And we end with Little Sister Angel’s highest tribute, “I will love her forever because she is such an awesome person.”
