At the beginning of my sophomore year of college, I attended a volunteer fair at the University of Northern Iowa. One organization that I heard about while I was still in high school was Big Brothers Big Sisters. In high school I thought, “I want to be a part of that organization someday.” Growing up, I had many outstanding role models in my life, and I realize how important they have been to me. They helped shape me into the person that I am today by teaching me: respect, responsibility, trustworthiness, determination and perseverance. I believe in the power of positive role models. I think that as children, we see those around us and aspire to be like them; whether positive or, unfortunately, negative. Not all kids are as fortunate as me regarding positive role models, and that is why I am a “Big sister.” To my little I am a:

1. A friend

We do all of the things that friends do. We play games, color, share snacks, and talk.

2. An outlet

She knows that I will ALWAYS be there if she needs to vent. A consistent schedule is crucial in building and maintaining an effective relationship.

3. A break

I am school based, so I give her a fun break during the day to express herself and allow one-on-one time outside of the classroom.

4. A leader

A leader listens to someone's aspirations and motivates and inspires them to achieve that dream. Even when my little wants to be a chef, astronaut, police, teacher, and veterinarian all in the same week I encourage every one of those. No child needs to be told that they "can't."

5. A teacher

We do educational (but fun!) activities dealing with literacy, science, and math. It is so easy to find fun science experiments and great conversation topics within books.

6. A role model

I am someone in her life that is positive. I can open her eyes to new opportunities. For example, last week we played volleyball. SHe had never played before, but now she wants to play all of the time.

7. The change

The change in a child’s life that encourages and supports them through their toughest times.

8. A big brother or sister

Mission statement of Big Brothers Big Sisters is to “provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever.” If you would like to become a mentor and make a difference in a child’s life, please begin by visiting the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America website.