Thanks to the caring and thoughtful leadership of two members of our community, Amy and Hal Pollack, and in cooperation with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Kansas City and its executive director, Micheal Lawrence, we have started a Jewish Big Brothers Big Sister program at JFS.
The program supports Jewish children and their families by offering positive Jewish role models to children who are in need of mentorship. The goal is to empower a child through a fun, unconditional relationship. For many, the relationship has been life-altering and has led to a life-long friendship. Children matched with a Big Brother or Big Sister have higher self-esteem and are more likely to succeed in school, social situations and family relationships.
To be eligible for the program, children (“Littles”) must be school-aged and have completed the intake process with their parent or guardian. Volunteers (“Bigs”) must be at least 21 years of age and complete a screening and intake process including personal interview, home assessment, background and reference checks. Volunteers share two to three hours per week with a child for a minimum of one year.
For information regarding enrolling a child, volunteering or general information about the program please contact Lucia Harding, at 816-777-2891 or lucia@bbbskc.org.
