A walk in the dog park is all it took to inspire Andrea Racette (recruiting coordinator Rogers Insurance) to become a "Big Sister" with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Calgary.
"I came across a Big Sister & Little Sister at the dog park and was told about the program. It was something I was already interested, but they made me continue, "said Andrea.
the process of becoming a" Big "(like" Big Sisters "and" Big Brother "refer to themselves) is quite long. Three months have passed from the moment Andrea completed the application, the first activity she and her 'Little' attended. a mentor must commit to a year in which they must be available at least once a week for 2-5 hours to attend activities. 'Bigs' must also go through the screening of criminal records and provide references.
once they move in the selection process, 'Bigs' go through the training provided by the organization. The training is set up to provide scenarios and hypothetical circumstances they have to navigate properly. The sessions shall ensure that the "Bigs" are equipped to deal with different circumstances (sometimes disturbing).
The program is set up to give young children and teenagers 6-17 positive role models. "Bigs" and "Littles" are matched based on interviews. So they take your application and then set up talks on this basis. It's pretty cool! "It also gets everyone and involved in the community, but in the end, the ultimate goal is to" Bigs "to be a positive impact on young people Among some Andrea activities and 'Little' part are:.. Bowling, visits to the dog park, roller skating and more. "the activities need not be expensive, they just have to be different each week," said Andrea.
For Andrea, the greatest reward is to see his 'Little' out of his shell. "When I met my little sister, she was shy, but now it is exciting to see how she came up with her confidence and willingness to participate in activities that would otherwise not have the chance to do it . "
Andreas advice to others interested in becoming a "Big Sister" and "Big Brother": you need to be committed and know that you have the time. It is important to your development "Littles" they can count on their "Bigs" to be there and it's important to finish what you start.
"Children and teenagers need good mentors. This program is an opportunity that requires you to get out in the community, to try new things and have a significant impact on our youth. "
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