KIDS NEED A MENTOR
MORE THAN EVER.
OUR WORK IS URGENT
Even in the best of times, our Littles face significantly more adversity than their peers. The young people we serve deserve to have a mentor standing in their corner, especially during this incredible moment of change and challenge.
44%
vs
30%
Our Littles
National Average
Total annual household income less than $20,000
66%
vs
34%
Our Littles
National Average
Live in single parent household
26%
vs
7%
Our Littles
National Average
Worries a lot
22%
vs
12%
Our Littles
National Average
Are lonely, sad and cry a lot
Our Littles face much greater exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) than the general population.
Social Isolation can both increase the likelihood of ACEs such as exposure to domestic violence, abuse and neglect AND compound the effects of trauma and adverse childhood experiences.
ACEs can have lasting negative effects on mental health and physical well-being throughout life.
Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring relationships protect against harmful effects of ACEs, and help young people with childhood trauma.
Once we are through this immediate crisis, we know that our children and families will continue to feel lasting, profound effects. Our work could not be more urgent.
Sourced by BBBS of America
Every child has the potential to change the world.
In a world of causes, we make a difference by creating professionally supported, mentoring matches for kids who want to realize their full potential.
MENTOR RECRUITMENT
Last November we teamed up with Montana Coffee Traders for a 2-day mentor recruitment campaign. Our staff set up a station at all four locations to answer questions and help start the enrollment process. We are are so grateful for MCT's continued support and for all the caring community members we had the pleasure of meeting. Supporting local businesses is very important to BBBS NW Montana, and it is especially motivating to do so when it tastes delicious.
Did you miss our recruiting event? No problem! Reach out to us and one of our Match Support & Enrollment Specialists would be happy to schedule a meeting over coffee...and perhaps a pastry!
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Our Executive Director Todd Lengacher had a blast honing in on his barista skills. He pulled a beautiful shot! Could it have been his Seattle roots or just excellent teaching? We think it was both!
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Thom and Todd were prepared to answer all of your mentoring and caffeinated questions at the Kalispell Café. Thom's an MCT trivia champ!
MENTOR RECRUITMENT
Last September we participated in the Whitefish Education Foundation's Back to School Bash at the Whitefish Middle School. Maria, our Missoula-based Match Support & Enrollment Specialist drove up to help share our program to interested parents and children. Staff also had the opportunity to watch their Executive Director joyfully plummet into the dunk tank!
BIG & LITTLE STORY
Enjoying fresh powder on the slopes is a favorite for many Montanans. Devon was eager to get in on the fun and asked his Big Brother Clay to teach him how to snowboard. Clay took Devon on the Magic Carpet at Whitefish Mountain Resort but he struggled to find balance on the board.
Clay suggested they switch to skiing and was determined to defend his Little's potential by helping Devon reach his goals. Devon was a natural the moment he put on a pair of skis. Practicing nearly every weekend helped him develop skill and gain the confidence needed to thrive on the mountain. It wasn't long before Devon braved going down Black Diamond and did so with success!
BIG & LITTLE STORY
Big Sister Carrie Power and Lexi are a new-ish match. These two initially bonded over a mutual appreciation for french fries and ice cream but their friendship now thrives on enjoying each other's company and finding the other hilarious. After just 2-months they are finishing each other's sentences.
One summer day they decided to spend the whole day together. Their day began enjoying two scoops on the rooftop of Sweet Peaks Ice Cream and then ventured over to Pin & Cue for some bowling and arcade games and lunch. Later they arrived at Stumptown Art Studio for Big Art Little Art with huge smiles and energy.
Lexi is a gifted artist and is able to express her creativity in various forms, even creating bracelets that same morning to wear throughout the day. She decided to paint a rainbow-colored ceramic fish and meticulously selected the right colors and then carefully applied each stroke of paint. The result was incredible! She questioned whether to paint a second fish but Carrie was quick to encourage her to paint however many she wanted. Carrie helps Lexi realize her potential by frequently building her up and supporting her interests. Whether they are at the dog park or at Imagine IF Libraries or just enjoying lunch, Carrie makes sure Lexi knows she is talented, special, and a fun Little Sister.
A BIG THANK YOU
TO OUR LOYAL SUPPORTERS
We received over 790 individual donations in 2019!
Ben Eisinger & Family
Oro y Plata Foundation
Laura G. Barrett Living Arts Foundation Fund
Bill and Rosemary Gallagher Foundation
Enterprise Holdings Foundation
Dennis & Phyllis Washington Foundation
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