If you are looking for a way to help out our community while also shaping the lives of our youth, consider Big Brothers Big Sisters of Marquette and Alger counties.

BBBSMA is looking for adult volunteers from the Central Upper Peninsula to “join the village” and become a “big.” The area BBBSMA serves has grown to include all of the Central U.P.

With over 25 children currently ready, BBBSMA is asking for volunteers become a mentor to provide a safe space for a young person to explore, learn and grow.

“We have many options for volunteering,” said Jayne Letts, executive director for BBBSMA. “Mentoring is flexible for people with busy schedules and can be an exceptional, rewarding volunteer experience.”

Mentors can enjoy all sorts of activities with their “little,” including hiking, biking, group sports, reading, crafting, or even just sharing a meal together. Staff at BBBSMA will pair each mentor match based on compatibility, energy levels and shared interests.

“You can participate as an individual, a couple or a family,” Letts said. “There is an option for everyone.”

In a press release, BBBSMA said that youth matched in a Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program are 46% less likely to use illegal substances, 27% less likely to use alcohol and 52% less likely to skip school. Youth “littles” also show improved self-esteem and feelings that they matter within their communities.

Eligible “littles” are between the ages of 6 and18, while mentors, or “bigs” can be all ages from high school students to retirees. Once matched, the “little” and “big” meet for a minimum of four hours per month and establish connections through simple activities and outings. Community-based, school-based and site-based options are also available.

The numbers speak for themselves — Big Brothers Big Sisters is an organization that has a tremendous impact on its communities. If you have some free time, consider volunteering and being a positive influence on our area youth.

BBBSMA said it is dedicated to defending the potential of children and youth through one-to-one mentoring, an evidence-based method of prevention that keeps kids engaged, builds resilience and helps to mitigate the negative effects of trauma. For more information on how to become a mentor, reach out to Letts at jayne@bbbsmqt.org or 906-475-7801. More information can be found at bbbsmqt.org.

— The Mining Journal, Marquette