Big Brothers Big Sisters of America
Katie Johnson, Staff Writer

Amidst the false compassion and selfish materialism of today’s society emerge the people who really, truly want to make a difference. These are the people who, with no reason but to help a person in need, want to volunteer their time, knowledge and friendship to someone who needs a mentor. These people are Big Brothers and Big Sisters.
      North Dakota State University nursing student Jeanna Grewe heard from a friend about Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “I love kids and I want to be a pediatric nurse,” says Grewe, a fifth-year senior.
      To become a Big Brother or Big Sister, one must “be a positive role model, have respect for others, be non-judgmental and have the ability to establish and maintain positive relationships with children,” a BBBS brochure says. Big Brothers and Big Sisters have a commitment of one year, and choose the role of a school mentor, meeting with the child once a week; or a community mentor, meeting twice a month.
      “There was an interview process and screening,” says Grewe. “I went to her parents’ house. My name was put on a list in July, and I had a Little Sister by October.” Grewe’s Little Sister is 9-year-old Baily.
     Little Brothers and Sisters come from single-parent families. Sometimes the parent just wants someone to spend time with him or her, someone to be a role model.
     “Baily had three older sisters,” says Grewe, “but I think sometimes she gets left out of the circle.” Grewe also has a sister of her own, and her parents are separated.
“It was a little awkward at first, but I can tell she has more confidence,” Grewe says of her Little Sister. “When we go to pick out movies, she chooses the ones she wants.” Other activities included dressing up for Halloween, making crafts for Baily’s mom and participating in BBBS events.
     Grewe became a Big Sister five months ago, and plans to continue for as long as possible. “It is one of the best things I’ve ever done,” says Grewe emphatically. “It has become part of my life. I would recommend it to anyone.”
     The ratio of women to men volunteers is overwhelmingly lopsided. Loan officer Tim Wangler said, “There was a need for guy volunteers. There just seems to be more women. I’ve known people involved with it; I decided to give it a try.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters Continued..........     

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