Local Group Makes Big Splash with Back-to-School Event in Duncan

Duncan, S.C., July 23, 2024

With a big splash, Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of the Upstate is ensuring the upcoming school year gets off to a good start. The BBBS hosted a massive back-to-school event in Duncan at Shipwreck Cove, offering free school supplies, enjoyable activities, and a hearty helping of fun in the water.

Mentoring Magic

Local youth, affectionately termed ‘Littles’, teamed up with their volunteer mentors, or ‘Bigs’, for Tuesday’s wonderful event. One such pairing is 10-year-old McKenzie and her Big, Debbie Winkler. When asked about her Big, McKenzie says, “She asks me every time she sees me, ‘How’s school been going?’”

The bond between mentors and mentees is magical as they learn about each other and grow together. McKenzie had to wait several months before finding her perfect match in Debbie. Delivering the sentiment mutually, Winkler said, “McKenzie is a bright shining light when you’re around her. She’s so much fun, and we just enjoy the same things.”

Finding Fulfillment

Debbie Winkler is one among approximately 100 local mentors who are a part of the BBBS Upstate initiative. The value these mentors derive from the program is both personally transformative and socially beneficial. Big Brother Chris Sorrell feels rewarded and enlightened from this process. He shared, “It’s a great feeling to have. It’s cool to see the way that you impact them by teaching them things and just being there. I’ve learned how to be a better listener from my Little.”

BBBS Upstate is eager for more men like Sorrell to join the mentorship program so they can connect more Little Brothers with Bigs. Sorrell encouraged potential mentors by saying, “Get off the bench and come out and play. It’s worth the bit of time you put into it.”

Supported by the Community

The back-to-school event was generously sponsored by multiple local businesses. They include Bruster’s Ice Cream, Craft Axe Throwing, Foster Victor Financial Wealth, Milo’s Tea, PepsiCo, Shipwreck Cove, and Target.

Become a Big

BBBS Upstate is always on the look-out for individuals interested in becoming mentors and making a positive impact in a young person’s life. If you’re eager to join this movement of caring mentorship and want to learn more about BBBS Upstate, visiting bbbsupstate.com is a good place to start.

Nurturing the Next Generation

Organizations like BBBS demonstrate the power of mentoring relationships. The back-to-school event not only equipped the kids with essential supplies but also instilled a strong sense of community and shared joy. These memorable experiences provide a foundation that these children can look back on as they navigate their educational journey. By impactful initiatives like these, BBBS Upstate is surely nurturing the students of today into the leaders of tomorrow.

Written by HERE News, HERE NEWS Network