DUNCAN, S.C.

Making a big splash in the community, Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of the Upstate have taken progressive steps to ensure a smooth kick-start to the forthcoming school year. Youngsters, fondly referred to as Littles, accompanied their volunteer mentors, nicknamed Bigs, to the spectacular BBBS back-to-school event held at Shipwreck Cove in Duncan. In a bid to support young minds, thousands of free school supplies were distributed. To further boost the merry vibes, food and pleasurable water activities were on offer.

“A Bright Shining Light”

10-year-old McKenzie, one of the Littles participating in the event, shared her experience and excitement of having a mentor. She highlighted how the mentor pays close attention to her school performance. According to McKenzie, “She asks me every time she sees me, ‘How’s school going?’”. After several months of anticipation, McKenzie was finally paired up with her ideal match, Debbie Winkler. In her words, 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.”

The Importance of Mentorship

Around 100 local citizens like Winkler partnered with BBBS Upstate to serve as mentors to these young minds. Big Brother Chris Sorrell talked about the sense of fulfillment this association provides him. He mentioned, “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.” Sorrell further shared his learning experience of becoming a better listener through his interactions with his Little.

Call to Action

BBBS Upstate seized this opportunity to call upon more individuals, primarily men, to be a part of their mentorship program and help pair up more Little Brothers with Bigs. In a rallying call, Sorrell stated, “Get off the bench and come out and play. It’s worth the bit of time that you put into it.”

Tuesday’s gathering was sponsored by Bruster’s Ice Cream, Craft Axe Throwing, Foster Victor Financial Wealth, Milo’s Tea, PepsiCo., Shipwreck Cove, and Target. To express interest in becoming a mentor or to know more about BBBS Upstate, prospective volunteers can visit the organization’s website.

Making a Difference

Such initiatives by local organizations like BBBS Upstate underline the significant role communities play in shaping up the future of their young minds. Providing school supplies can assist in lifting a financial burden off of many families while mentorship programs can provide guidance and nurturing that is often needed outside of a classroom. As we look forward to a new school year, BBBS Upstate is setting the precedent for what community involvement can mean for its students.