Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence Region Helping Kids Download

29:46 Download June 27th, 2023

Marcus Allen, Chief Executive Officer of Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence Region discussed their programming for kids throughout the Delaware Valley and their expansions to their mission during his ten years on the job.  He described their work, pairing caring adults with kids who need a steady influence, to listen, encourage and connect with them.  ‘Bigs’ work with the ‘Little’ and their families to foster greater confidence and better relationships, help steer them from risky behavior to achieve their full potential, in school and later in life.   He shared their training process and their support after a pairing, group outings and entertainment and sport opportunities.  While Bigs are only required to stay one year, he told us of the many Big/Little friendships that lasted through graduation a, marriage and even retirement.  Any child who need the service can apply, and now kids can stay in the program through college, but there is a serious shortage of Bigs.  Mr. Allen is trying to recruit mire men of color and promote their business volunteer opportunities, local companies can work with kids for reading breaks during the day.  Realizing that BBBS could never meet the demand for individual pairings, he described their new approach, partnering and sharing best practices with other organizations, grassroots and other groups who offer mentoring programs, getting more kids into services.      

To learn more, to donate or volunteer go to independencebigs.org

Podcasts you may like

Her Story

Kathy Romano presents “Her Story,” a weekly tribute to women every Sunday morning at 7am on WMMR. She will introduce you to another woman making a major difference in the […]

Play Latest (December 12th)

137 episodes

Preston and Steve®

Weekday mornings on 93.3 WMMR Philadelphia with hilarious conversation, celebrity interviews & contests from people a little goofier than you.

Play Latest (December 13th)

2437 episodes

MMaRchives

Conversations with WMMR’s Pierre Robert, Jacky Bam Bam & Brent Porche.

Play Latest (November 22nd)

1138 episodes

The Bizarre Files

Daily news of the weird and wild from The Preston & Steve Show on 93.3 WMMR, Philadelphia.

Play Latest (December 13th)

1814 episodes

Preston & Steve’s Fun Size Podcast

A favorite segment from our show…celebrity interviews and free-wheeling conversation appropriately sized for your busy day.

Play Latest (September 17th)

314 episodes