Bigs in Schools

Launched in 2000 as a tribute to the memory of John Price, "Bigs in Schools" is the flagship of our special programs. An alternative to the traditional adult-child community match, "Bigs in Schools" provides one-to-one matches between a group of young adults and a group of students from an urban elementary school. The matches spend their time together after school, at the school - in the library, gymnasium, and on the playground.

In addition to the friendship formed between the "Big" and the "Little", parents, teachers and guidance counselors report positive changes in the children in the program. The children, overall, display more self-confidence, are developing more positive attitudes towards school, and are achieving higher grades.

"There is a tremendous need to model and give attention to our inner-city children. I support the program and would like to see it expanded. I would like to see our children go to college campuses once a month so that they can have aspirations of going further in school"

The "littles" aren't the only ones who benefit. The mentors, mostly college students, report that they are learning just as much from their little brother or sister. They are surprised to find how rewarding the experience truly is.

The increasing success of "Bigs in Schools" is evident in the rate and size to which it's grown in a short time. What started with one college sports team, has now grown to include many of Worcester's colleges, high schools and elementary schools. Over 120 matches exist through "Bigs in Schools"..

Testimonials

From the "Bigs"

"His smile; every week when I went to the school"

"My LB was the best behaved. Everyone agreed"

"She smiles more, laughs more and seems to have become happier and more open"

"I feel like I would have liked to do this even if it weren't for "John's Brothers" It was a pleasure"

From the "Littles"

"He talked to me about life and how to overcome one's fears"

"She was never mean to me"

"I wish he didn't live in Texas"

"She listens to my problems and trys to help me"

"He's the first grown-up that spent time with me"

Other special programs offering mentor relationships include St John's, Assumption's Little Buddies, and Doherty's PAL program

603.mentor@bbbs.org
Last modified: Oct 21, 2007, 11:08 EDT