|
History
Big Brothers Big Sisters movement was initiated in 1903 by a man named Ernest Coulter. As a New York City court clerk, Coulter became increasing alarmed by the thousands of suffering children that came through the court system. In late 1904, he appeared before a group of businessmen and described a boy about to be jailed. Coulter stated: “There is only one way to save that youngster, and that is to have some earnest, true man volunteer to be his Big Brother, to look after him, help him do right, make the little chap feel that there is at least one human being in this great city who takes a personal interest in him. Someone who cares whether he lives or dies. I call for a volunteer!” With that said, every man in the room raised his hand.
Big Brothers Big Sisters is based on the premise that in order for youth to reach their full potential as a man or a woman, they need the influence of a mature, responsible adult during their formative years. The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is to make a positive difference in the lives of children and youth, primarily through a professionally supported one-to-one relationship with a caring adult.
Continuing with this mission, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Great Falls has provided positive, professionally supported relationships to Great Falls children since 1976. In accordance with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Great Falls provides youth with volunteer programs designed to help them become productive, self-reliant adults. Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring programs are effective through reliance on trained, educated and professional staff members, carefully screened and oriented volunteers, ongoing match support and supervision and uniform case management standards and procedures.
|
|