EDITORIAL
OUR VIEW: Help
Big Brothers, Sisters
January 10, 2008
As many as 500 youths look to the area Big Brothers Big Sisters program for mentoring, support and adults with whom they can spend time. But as the area's population increases, so does the demand for more Big Brothers and Big Sisters.
Those who operate Big Brothers Big Sisters are working out of an overcrowded building, and they believe that the only way the program can expand is by having a larger facility.
For that purpose, Big Brothers Big Sisters has kicked off a $1 million fundraising campaign. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties has operated out of a converted house in Crest Hill for more than 15 years.
Chief Executive Officer Lisa Morel Las said that the agency has grown and needs a new home.
Plans call for the current building to be razed and the property sold, with the proceeds going to a new site. However, the charity not only wants office space, but also a place to host events that could encourage more people to participate in the program.
Furthermore, Big Brothers Big Sisters would like a place large enough to give prospective mentors an idea as to what the program is about.
And by having such a location, more people could become interested in becoming Big Brothers and Big Sisters, bringing happiness to more needy children, many of whom live with single parents.
While raising $1 million sounds like a formidable challenge, campaign Co-Chairman James Roolf noted that if every person in Will and Grundy counties each gave $1, the donations would come close to the $1 million target.
Because of Big Brothers Big Sisters, youths are able to be kept off the streets, away from temptations of drugs and alcohol.
Mentoring also helps children in school, and the kids may even start getting along with their families at home.
Big Brothers Big Sisters is a program that works. We encourage you to give what you can to this worthwhile campaign.
Many of these youths just need a boost of self-esteem.
That's what Big Brothers and Big Sisters is all about.
Those interested in contributing can call Bridget Domberg, the charity's chief advancement officer, at (815) 725-4324.