Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Michigan (Bigs) thanks you, our community of supporters–our donors, our volunteers and our Bigs, who continue to be a stable support system for their Littles, especially now when they need it most.
Our team continues to deliver critical support to our Littles, their families and our volunteer Bigs, in an efficient and impactful way, while working remotely. They have been able to make contact with each and every one of our families, children and volunteers to ascertain critical needs and provide valuable ‘virtual’ possibilities for meaningful connections. Check it out: Virtual Resources. These are simple, yet significant impressions (when guided by their Big), a real testament to the influence of the relationship.
Just this week alone, we received dozens of hand-written notes and short video messages from our School-Based Bigs to forward on to their Littles (since they can’t make direct contact outside of school), and our Community-Based Bigs are connecting using a variety of “virtual” opportunities.
A couple of High School Bigs decided to introduce their pets to their Littles. Cute Idea. Big ♥ (Mentoring Specialist Michele Conway)
We are so fortunate to have such amazing volunteers with BIG hearts. Whether you are a Big, donor, parent, or friend we hope you remember to smile each day and remember that we are #BiggerTogether.
Bigs’ commitment to provide children with caring mentors has never waivered. We have been serving children and families in northwestern Michigan for 50 years, and we are keenly aware that now, at times like these, they need us more than ever.
As our daily and weekly priorities continue to adjust, we consistently modify our service delivery to meet the needs of our youth and their families. First and foremost, we must make sure their basic needs are being met.
Community Resources we are continually updating these resources as things change. Please email me at cecilia.chesney@ bigsupnorth.com if you are interested in helping to provide basic support to a family in need OR simply go to our website at Bigsupnorth.com and make a donation indicating your intentions.
As each day brings more challenges, let’s focus on gratitude and strength and remember how blessed we are to live in a community that supports one another and takes thoughtful and prompt action to help those in need.
Pictured: The team at Bigs and John McGee, co-owner of McGee’s 72, McGee’s 31, Harrington’s, Sorellina and Slate, emptying out the kitchen at Sorellina to feed Bigs’ families.
Many thanks to John McGee of Sorellina for providing meals for the children and their families that we serve. We are so appreciative of your generosity and support to ensure our mission stays strong during this challenging time.
Pictured: A very grateful Little Brother
A message from Mom:
Dear John,
I want you to know you provided some sunshine here:
Kyle made the salad (and used the chicken on that). Alec prepared the table, cut up the brussel sprouts, poured the milk (both boys are good eaters!); while I baked the spagetti and toasted the bread…we all pitched in. You are a good example of what I have told the boys…Family is everywhere!
Please be safe and stay healthy.
Cecilia J. Chesney
Executive Director
PS Stay tuned for an update regarding changes to our upcoming fundraising events.