In order to expand their reach in Hernando County, Big Brothers Big Sisters representatives will be out in full force at special events throughout the community. The organization pairs inspiring adult mentors with kids aged 6-13 who need them.
“We’re looking for adult mentors of all ages to reach out to these kids. Positive role models whose influence can last a lifetime,” said Mary Ann Rhodes, RSVP Partnerships Director at Big Brothers Big Sisters. “At all of these events, we’ll be offering information and swag to let people know about Big Brothers Big Sisters.”
BBBS will be featured on a float in the Oct. 8 Multicultural Parade in Brooksville, kicking off at 10 am “We have a BBBS rep who cannot wait to have his big truck featured in the parade,” said Kathy McKendree, RSVP partnerships director at Big Brothers Big Sisters, with a chuckle. “We’re proud to be featured in this event.”
BBBS also will be represented on Thursday, Oct. 13 at the Terlep Chiropractic Ribbon Cutting taking place from 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm.
On Oct. 15, BBBS will host a booth at the 3rd Annual Monster Car Show Boys & Girls Club of Hernando County and Hernando County Parks & Recreation, 4-9 pm at the Lake House, 1202 Kenlake Ave., Spring Hill. “We’ll be offering candy and games for the kids,” said Rhodes.
Rounding out the organization’s current events calendar will be a Nov. 3 Chamber Business Expo, Thursday Nov 3, 5 – 8 pm EDT at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, 6131 Commercial Way, Weeki Wachee. And on Dec. 3, BBBS will be part of a Toys for Tots event at Terlep Chiropractic. McKendree stresses that, while adults of all ages are encouraged to become Big Brothers and Big Sisters, BBBS is looking in particular for senior mentors at this time. “Our major goal is to make sure that neither kids nor mentors have to sit on a waiting list in order to be matched,” she said. “And for seniors, this is a productive, meaningful way to spend their time.”
McKendree herself is a proud Big Sister. “My Little Sis and I are a perfect match,” she said. “This is a wonderful experience.”
Kathy McKendree encourages Hernando residents interested in being a Big Brother or Big Sister, or who would like to welcome her to speak at their church, club or community group to contact her at [email protected] or 352-549-0225. Or they can visit https://bit.ly/3SVgnNb.
