When two North Texas nonprofits get together on a project, it almost always spells success for its clients, staff, supporters and community. Such a partnership is taking place and has all the signs of being another winner.
Since January is National Mentoring Month, the area Big Brothers Big Sisters (aka “Bigs”) is teaming up with Dallas and Fort Worth YMCA’s (aka “the Y”) to provide a boost to the number of Bigs, who will “have the opportunity to spend time together two to four times per month” with their Little Brothers Little Sisters (aka “Littles”).
The Y is not only offering free memberships for both Bigs and their Littles, the facilities will “provide healthy activities for Bigs and Littles to do together including swimming, sports, exercise classes and more experiences that will create long-lasting memories.”
According to YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas CEO Curt Hazelbaker, “At the YMCA, we are dedicated to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. This partnership with BBBS is a natural fit that embodies our mission. The Y is a safe space for Big and Littles to develop healthy habits together while learning valuable life lessons.”
With more than 500 kids on the wait-list hoping for a Bigs match and the all-too-familiar COVID-19 challenges, the timing couldn’t be better.
As Bigs Dallas Market Senior VP of Corporate and Community Engagement Jamila Thomas reported, “We recognize the importance, now more than ever, that the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters serves to connect hearts with hearts, people with people and what better way to bring out the best in all of us than through the hearts and resilient minds of young people.”
BTW, if you’re already a Big, the perk of free membership is available for you, too.
* Graphic/photo courtesy of YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas