Children’s Program

by Shea Belsky When I first reached out to JBBBS in April 2019, I had a clear idea of who I’d be a great Big for. I’m Shea Belsky, an autistic 25-year-old who has been through the public school system. I had an IEP, physical therapy, speech therapy, a psychologist, a one-on-one aide and much…

by Camden H. Mamigonian My volunteering journey started in earnest at my first employer when I heard about an informal organization within the company that developed events in local schools to expose students to STEM. It sounded like an incredible group to be a part of, and a fun and worthy cause to support, so…

by Ariella Honig My Little and I made a promise to each other the first day we met. A little nervous and excited, I remember walking from my house on a rainy March day. I had been waiting six months to get paired with a Little and my match specialist assured me that she thought…

Like many other JBBBS volunteers, I didn’t know if I would be a good Big Sister when I first applied. I worried that whoever I was matched with, we just wouldn’t connect. Putting yourself out there can be difficult regardless of age. All I knew is that I wanted to be there for a young adult in the same way that I could have benefited from a mentor when I was teen. I wanted to let someone else know that they were not alone.

I cannot speak to the impact that I have had on my Little. But I can say confidently from my volunteer experience that you wouldn’t regret getting involved with this program. Being a part of this young man’s life, giving time to develop our youth and future, understanding that life is meant to be fun and uplifting, and elevating each other are all reasons Jahni will forever be a brother to me!

As a ‘Big’ at JBBBS, I’m proud to be that support system for my Little who, like I did, struggles with the feelings of inadequacy that can come with ADHD. I’ve learned as much about myself as I hope my Little has learned from me. I find myself telling him stories that I don’t always share with others – things only those of us with ADHD brains understand.

This new program will seek to improve the college experience and graduation outcomes of previously underserved populations through mentorship. By building on our foundation of creating meaningful, one-to-one relationships, JBBBS will provide qualifying students with the practical and social-emotional support of mentors who will act as guides and personal champions as they navigate the path to college.