Bill and Marcel

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge is proud to announce that Big Brother Bill Kelley has been selected as our Big Brother of the year! Bill has spent nearly 11 years matched with Little Brother, Marcel, and describes his experience as “incredibly fulfilling” and “one of the best experiences of my life.”  His efforts have helped Marcel gain confidence, strengthen his social skills, and succeed in school.

One of Bill and Marcel’s favorite activities is going out to eat.  They are quick to tell you their motto, “The worst meal we have ever had together was great!”  Bill and Marcel’s relationship exemplifies the fact that some of the smallest gestures make a big difference. Bill understands that grabbing a bite to eat and  just being there have a big impact on Marcel.

This year, Marcel will turn 18 and their match through Big Brothers Big Sisters will formally end.  Marcel recently asked Bill, “Can we still be friends once our match ends?”  Bill responded, “As far as I am concerned, this friendship started with Big Brothers Big Sisters, but it has grown to a life-long relationship. You don’t stop being family.”

Bill and Marcel in 2001 (taken with a Polaroid camera)

As if being a Big Brother weren’t enough, Bill has gone above and beyond what is expected of him. He has participated in countless fundraising and outreach events, and has served on the Board of Directors for nearly five years. He is a great spokesperson for Big Brothers Big Sisters, helping to secure media coverage and financial support from local businesses.  Most recently he stepped in as the Interim Director while the agency transitioned between leaders.  Bill is an inspiration and the epitome of what this organization is all about.

Each year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America selects two volunteers who personify the spirit of Big Brothers Big Sisters to be honored as National Big Brother and National Big Sister of the Year and Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge will be nominating Bill.  If selected, Bill and Marcel will travel to the White House and will be honored at an awards gala.  (Awards will be distributed in April.)

Please join us in congratulating Bill on his exemplary efforts on behalf of his Little Brother Marcel. Bill and Marcel have enriched our program in more ways than can possibly be mentioned and we know that they will continue to impact the organization and the community for years to come. Marcel is already following in Bill’s footsteps by serving as a mentor to Bill’s grandchildren.  As Lily Hardy Hammond wrote, “You don’t pay love back; you pay it forward.”

As we celebrate the proven impact of mentoring programs, we also sound the call for financial resources and volunteers to increase our impact.  Start something today by making a secure online donation or finding out about how you can become a Big at www.bbbsocbr.org.

At the end of 2011, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge received devastating news.  A federal grant we were awarded that was to provide half of our operating budget for three years dried up after just one year.  As we work to replace the $240,000 we lost and avoid programmatic cuts, we found something of a silver lining in re-evaluating our expenses.

We learned that a significant portion of our expenses was going to overhead costs, not programming.  And so, we asked ourselves, “How can we reduce overhead costs and still be an efficient and effective regional agency?”  We did our homework and learned that very successful regional Big Brothers Big Sister agencies centralize all administrative functions at one office location and employ “field agents” who work remotely in each region providing on-the-ground support to matches and their communities.  And it works.  These agencies provide services to hundreds of children in five or more regions, effectively and efficiently.

So, beginning January 1^st, 2012, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge has adopted this delivery model, closed its satellite office in Waynesboro and centralized all administrative and programmatic functions to its Charlottesville office.

We know this transition will be difficult for some folks and we want to impress upon all our supporters that we are still 100% committed to providing the same, if not better, services to Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta Valley.

If you have any questions related to this announcement, please feel free to contact me directly at jbright@bbbsocbr.org.

We look forward to a exciting new year and the opportunity to continue serving you!

Best,

Jackie Bright

Executive Director

Tom Daly Photography

It’s starting to look a lot like Christmas at the Main Street Arena in Charlottesville’s downtown mall! Nearly 100 Bigs, Littles, Family, and Friends came together to celebrate the season at the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge’s holiday ice skating party this past Sunday afternoon.

This is the second time that Main Street Arena has hosted the Big Brothers Big Sisters’ holiday party. Jackie Bright, Executive Director of our Charlottesville office, says the venue is popular with Bigs and Littles because of its unique atmosphere. “It’s something special—a break from the normal routine. And having the event at the downtown mall helps introduce Littles to community activities, while giving them a chance to socialize with one another,” says Jackie.

The Arena certainly resembled a swinging social hall on Sunday, as Bigs and Littles took their turns on the ice amid giggles and encouraging cheers. And while we did have a few experienced ice skaters in attendance, most were new to the ice rink.

Tom Daly Photography

One Big braved the ice for the first time for her more experienced Little, although she did concede to keeping one hand securely on the railing. In an endearing example of how the Big Brothers Big Sisters program can be a two-way street, the supportive Little stepped up to fill the supportive role and protectively skated close to the railing in order to be near her Big. Never venturing far “in case she was needed to help,” the Little sweetly shouted words of encouragement and even offered her hand when her Big finally felt confident enough to let go of the railing. When asked later about her Big’s first time on the ice, the proud Little smiled from ear-to ear and reported that “she did pretty good.”

After party-goers worked up an appetite on the ice, they shared pizza in the café overlooking the rink. Between slices of pepperoni and cheese, Bigs and Littles alike swapped stories of how they fared on the ice. When asked what their favorite part of ice skating was, one relieved Little was quick to answer, “not falling!”

To top off ice skating adventures and pizza, Bigs and Littles were also invited to participate in a raffle for prizes. One lucky pair received two general admission passes to Wintergreen Resort!

Tom Daly Photography

Big Brothers Big Sisters was especially lucky to have Tom Daly, a local Charlottesville photographer, capture our Bigs and Littles in action on the ice. Please visit his work on our facebook page or his website.

This wonderful event wouldn’t have been possible without our very own Michael Heelan, who planned, organized, and coordinated this year’s holiday ice skating party. Michael has been a tremendous asset to the Big Brothers Big Sisters team, working as an Intern from our Charlottesville office. Without him, this event would not have been the success that it was. Thank you, Michael!

by Angelique Paul, Red Press, LLC

This is the second time Big Brothers Big Sisters has been the guest of honor at Coach’s Corner. Not only is the event a fun group activity, it’s also a “great opportunity for Littles to meet a local inspiration such as Coach London,” says Tosha Russock, Match Specialist at Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Everyone received a UVa Football t-shirt and poster, and one lucky Little won tickets to an upcoming game. But according to one excited Little, the highlight of the evening was “going onstage to ask Coach London a question.”

In fact, two Littles were invited to personally ask the Coach a question. The room erupted into laughter when the first Little politely asked Coach London if he had traveled to the restaurant by limo, to which he humbly replied that he had simply taken the bus and walked the rest of the way.

Deciding to explore a different angle, the second Little asked Coach London what led him to become a coach. After a moment of thought, Coach London explained that his Dad had coached him in Little League and it was that encouraging team experience that first showed him “the benefit of what positive reinforcement can do.”

Coach London’s insight highlighted the importance of a fundamental Big Brothers Big Sisters tool:  positive reinforcement. It is encouraging to know that such a prominent community figure believes in the power of positive reinforcement as we do here at Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Many heartfelt thanks to everyone for making Big Brothers Big Sisters Night at Coach’s Corner a successful event. We hope to see you at the next one! And in the meantime, to quote Coach London, “keep playing—and have fun doing it!”

By Angelique Paul

Red Press, LLC

Big Brothers Big Sisters at the Coach’s Corner

It’s Big Brothers Big Sisters’ night at the Coach’s Corner! Join us on Monday, October 24th for this live radio broadcast with UVA Football Coach Mike London, Dave Koehn (Big Brother and Voice of the Cavaliers),and other special guests from the UVA Football team! Each Little will receive a complimentary UVA football t-shirt and a group photo with Coach London. Wild Wing Cafe is also offering a kid’s (under 12) meal for $1 with the purchase of an adult meal. This is a fun opportunity for Bigs and Littles to mingle with UVA coaches and players and meet our new Executive Director, Jackie Bright.  Please RSVP by Tuesday, October 18^th.

Big Brother Dave Koehn and his Little Brother

Big Brothers Big Sisters Fall Skate Party

This year’s Fall Party for the Staunton, Augusta, and Waynesboro area will be held at Staunton’s Skatetown USA. Join us for an amazing night of roller skating, food, and fun on Thursday, November 10th from 6-8pm. Skatetown’s rink and party area will be all ours and Big Brothers Big Sisters will provide admission, skate rentals, and food and drink. Bigs, Littles, families and friends are all invited to celebrate and meet our new staff. It has been quite some time since we have been able to get all of our Valley Matches together and we hope you will save the date! Please RSVP so that we can best plan for food.

Big Brothers Big Sisters and The Big Warm Up Charlottesville

The Big Warm Up Charlottesville is a coat drive to help area families and children keep warm this winter. You can contribute by donating coats by October 21^st. Please visit http://www.bigwarmupcville.blogspot.com/ for more information and to find the drop off location nearest you.  Families can also request donated coats by contacting us and providing us with the age, sex and size coats by Thursday, October 20^th. You can arrange a time to pick up your coats at our office the following week (preferred), or schedule a time for us to drop them off at your home.

Fundraising Opportunity

Designate Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge as your charity of choice for the Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign (CVC). If you, or someone you know, works for the Commonwealth of Virginia, we are now listed as an eligible charity for your donation! See the full list at http://www.cvc.vipnet.org/listall.html. We are code 5822. The Campaign runs October 1 – December 31.

“As a growing nonprofit serving the youth of our communities, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge required a combination of vision, compassion, and management expertise in its leader, “ said Sarena Marks, Board President.  “Jackie has just this combination.  Her track record of management success and commitment to children will be valued assets in our ongoing efforts.”

Executive Director, Jackie Bright

Bright joins Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge with a strong background in human service and nonprofit administration.  Her career portfolio includes work with national and local organizations serving the needs of aging populations, as well as youth and families and currently serves on the Charlottesville/Albemarle Commission on Children and Families.  Most recently, she served as Executive Director for Literacy Volunteers of Charlottesville/Albemarle an agency that provides one-to-one tutoring to undereducated adults.

“I was drawn to the organization because of their commitment to children, dedication to community sustainability, and their recent momentum in program development to help area children excel.  The mission and values of this organization are an inspiration and align perfectly with my personal and professional orientation.”

“I am honored to have been selected from a pool of highly qualified candidates,” adds Bright.  “I look forward to working with our Board of Directors, talented staff, and the communities of the Central Blue Ridge.”

“I will really miss my matches and seeing them make so much progress throughout the years,” said Marta.  “I have enjoyed working for an agency that embraces a child’s developmental assets and sees him or her not as needing or wanting to be fixed, but simply in need of someone to stand next to them and support them in the positive things they’re doing.”

Marta, known for her positive personality and community-building skills, will be greatly missed by Bigs, Littles, and Staff at Big Brothers Big Sisters.  Another colleague sorry to see Marta go is Becky Reid, Director of Programs, who had the pleasure of working closely with Marta during her time here.

“Marta’s deep knowledge and involvement in the Staunton-Augusta-Waynesboro communities was an asset to our programs and to the matches she made and supported during her time with Big Brothers Big Sisters,” said Becky.  “We know that she will continue to put this knowledge to good work at Head Start to support the growth and well-being of children and families throughout the Valley.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters wishes Marta all the best in her new position and future endeavors!

2011 Bowl for Kids’ Sake!

This event is Saturday, June 25th from 11am to 4pm at Staunton Bowling Lanes.

Form a bowling team with your co –workers, your friends, or your kids and family members.

It is only $50 a team (which is about $12 a person). Ask your friends, neighbors, and coworkers for $2 here and $5 there. Pretty soon you will have exceeded the entry fee. You may get your pledge forms from our office or have them emailed to you.

Fun, prizes, give-a-ways for every member, a wonderful raffle,and helping the kids of your community await all participants.

For more information please contact Sandy, Event Coordinator, at 540-942-3252 or email bfks@bbbsocbr.org to REGISTER your team TODAY!

Remember, it’s not about bowling; it’s about the kids!!!!

Gordonsville, VA – On June 13, 2011, Spring Creek Golf Club is partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters to offer kids an introduction to golf and an initial lesson to get them started on the right track.

The event starts at 5:30pm under the instruction of PGA Professionals Kevin Haney, Pete Mazza and Rob Shultz and concludes with some delicious food provided by The Tavern at Spring Creek.

Becky Reid, Director of Programs at Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge said, “This is a great event to get our Bigs and Littles outside, enjoying the weather and learning about a great sport that many of them are learning for the first time!”

“That’s the great part about being a Big Brother, you get to do fun activities that you already enjoy, and you get to share them with a new friend,” said Dave Koehn, a Big Brother and the Voice of the UVa Cavaliers.

“We are excited to work with a great group like Big Brothers Big Sisters,” says Head PGA Professional Kevin Haney, “This is an opportunity for us to give back to the community and share our love of the game with a new generation of players.”

The event takes place Monday, June 13, 2011 from 5:30-7:00pm at Spring Creek Golf Club in Gordonsville.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge has matched thousands of caring adult volunteers in the Staunton/Augusta/Waynesboro, Charlottesville/Albemarle and Lexington areas with children in need of mentoring and support. Big Brothers Big Sisters works to help young people realize their highest potential through consistent, long-term, professionally-supported one-on-one mentoring relationships.

Bigs meet with their Little Brother or Little Sister for about two hours each week to share activities that focus on fun and positive youth development. To learn more about becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister, contact bigs@bbbsocbr.org or call 434-244-0882. More information is available at www.bbbsocbr.org.

Spring Creek Golf Club is a premier golf course located in Gordonsville, VA. The course was named as the “Best New Public Under $75” when it opened in 2007 and provides a challenging and unique golf experience to players of all levels. The course also hosts the Spring Creek Classic for the e-Golf professional golf tour. More information can be found at www.springcreekgolfclub.com.

# # #

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge is currently seeking an Executive Director who will lead the agency to ensure that the mission, values and goals of the organization are achieved. Working closely with the Board, the Executive Director will be a hands-on, resourceful and driven leader who will successfully lead the organization through fundraising, financial management, board development, personnel management, program impact and public relations.

Ideal candidates will have the following qualities:

• Ability to lead an organization to achieve challenging goals
• Proven success in a fundraising setting
• Competency in financial management
• Experience in public relations
• Excellent written and oral communications skills

Big Brothers Big Sisters is the oldest, largest and most effective youth mentoring organization in the United States, developing positive relationships with a lasting impact on the lives of young people. Over the past 30 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge has matched thousands of caring adult volunteers in the Staunton/Augusta/Waynesboro, Charlottesville/Albemarle, and Lexington areas with children in need of mentoring and support.

Applicants should send a cover letter and resume, by June 15, 2011, by email to djmeador@comcast.net or by mail to Daniel J. Meador, Jr., Search Chair, P.O. Box 240, Charlottesville, VA 22902.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge is an Equal Opportunity Employer.