Be A Mentor: Latino Big Brothers and Sisters #

 

 

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Did you know that this week, April 21-27, is National Volunteer Week? I’ve shared earlier in the week about Volunteer Day, on the 27th, but did you know there was an entire week, dedicated to serving others? I love the idea of being able to give of our time and help our community, especially those that need it most.

I’m beyond honored to be selected by Latina Mom Bloggers, to participate in the Big Brothers Big Sisters, Latino campaign. National Volunteer Week celebrates giving back to the community and Latino Bigs just does that!  Latino Bigs encourages Latinos from all walks of life to give back by being a mentor to an at-risk Latino youth.

A decade ago, I was working in a small office, and I had a wonderful coworker that was a single mom to a little boy. Her son did not have a strong male influence in her life, and she really wanted a strong mentor and influence in his life. The Big Brother, Big Sister organization, came in to his life and changed all that. I watched from afar as a little boy was transformed, grades were brought up, and a boy happier than I had ever seen him. Big Brothers Big Sisters, is a wonderful organization, that can truly change children’s lives.

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I’ve also seen the power of mentorship in my life. I had a fantastic elementary teacher, Mrs.Citron, that encouraged me like no one else had done before. She reminded me daily, that I could be the first college graduate in my family, and that I had many talents to share. I credit her powerful belief in me, and her love, for being able to graduate from college, and pursue a career in education. Her simple words and actions, changed my life.

More than ever, there is a big need for Latino “Bigs”. Many of the children served by Big Brothers, Big Sisters, come from immigrant families, and are adjusting to a new culture. As Latinos, we know these challenges very well, and could really help a “little”  navigate through these challenges.

So come on Amigos, Amigas, head over to visit  www.latinobigs.org or www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org for more information about volunteering as a ‘Big.’ You have the power to bless and change many lives! Let’s do this!

This is part of a supported campaign with Latina Mom Bloggers and Big Brothers Big Sisters.  However, all opinions expressed are my own.

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