Grantees

The purpose is to increase the number of children served by the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program in the Deerfield Valley by recruiting more volunteers from new business and organization partnerships.

BBBSVT serves children and youth between the ages of 6-18+ in community, and site-based settings. The BBBS 1:1 mentoring service delivery model is an evidence-based preventative practice that fosters social/emotional learning and positive mental health. Youth who are at risk due to factors such as parental incarceration, poverty, homelessness, parent’s suffering from an addiction or mental health concern are matched with a reliable mentor “Big”. Matches meet for 4-6 hours per month for at least one year. BBBSVT also provides supportive services for volunteers, youth and families including ongoing training, facilitated group activities, monthly support contact, resource referrals, and mental health and prevention education.

The Big Brothers/Big Sister program will help children facing adversity to succeed at school by matching them with caring volunteer mentors who impact their social and emotional competencies, attitudes towards school, and attitudes towards risky behaviors.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Vermont County (BBBSWC) is an affiliate of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA). Established in 1904, BBBSA is the oldest and largest mentoring organization in the country. BBBSWC have been providing quality one-to-one adult-to-child mentoring programs for youth age 6-18 throughout Windham County for the past 42 years. We currently serve 67 youth in site and community-based programs with a special focus placed on children with incarcerated parents; those at risk for juvenile justice involvement or truancy; children in foster care or residential placements, or who are living in poverty or undesirable circumstances.

The Black Youth in Action (BYA) Program offers youth a collective space focused on health, wellness, and belonging. Black youth in Vermont have limited opportunities to engage in positive spaces with other Black youth and adults. This program provides that opportunity while creating healthy life habits and discipline to contribute to future success. BYA provides social connection, mentorship, and community service activities for teens, along with opportunities to explore flexible pathways after high school.

A mentoring program at the Book Lierman housing project during the summer months.

This program will expand upon their existing offerings to give teens an opportunity to advocate for themselves & make choices about their futures.