Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Ohio

Overview

Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Ohio is a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives through mentorship. Its mission focuses on empowering youth, building futures, and fostering growth in the local community. Founded in 1973, the organization initially served single-parent families with children aged 8-18, particularly males without fathers, in the Dover/New Philadelphia area.

History

The agency officially registered with the national Big Brothers Big Sisters program in 1982, becoming known as Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Ohio. Over the years, it has expanded its service area to include Tuscarawas, Carroll, and Harrison counties.

Programs

Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Ohio offers two primary types of mentoring programs:

• Community-Based Mentoring: This program matches adult volunteers (Bigs), aged 18 or older, with children (Littles) for one-on-one mentoring relationships. Bigs and Littles spend time together engaging in community activities, with a minimum requirement of meeting for at least four hours each month. The focus is on building a supportive relationship rather than on expensive outings.
• School-Based Mentoring: In this program, Bigs meet their Littles at school during lunch breaks or enrichment hours. This format allows for consistent mentoring within a structured environment.

Operations

The organization is supported by a dedicated staff, including a President & CEO, Directors of Development & Administration, Programs, Marketing & Recruitment, and several Mentoring Specialists. A board of local advocates oversees the organization's efforts, ensuring alignment with its mission to empower youth through meaningful relationships.

Impact

By providing supportive one-to-one relationships, Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Ohio aims to help children reach their full potential, fostering personal growth and community engagement. The organization's presence in the region highlights the importance of mentorship in shaping the lives of young people.