Ready for School: BBBSSM Engages Community for Back-to-Class Success

September 2024

August was a bustling month for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan filled with vibrant community events, fairs, and festivals all geared toward back-to-school preparations and forging new connections with potential mentors and community partners. Here are just a few examples.

The month kicked off with an exciting presence at Life Remodeled’s All.In Community Fair, held at the Durfee Innovation Society on August 16. Although BBBS was not the organizer of this event, the team was thrilled to participate in the celebration of the community in Detroit and pass out school supplies. The fair was packed with activities, including giveaways, a gaming truck, a bounce house and more. It was a fantastic opportunity for BBBS to mingle with community members, share information about programs, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this local event.

Just a few days later, on August 19, BBBS participated in Macomb Community College’s Welcome Week event for students. The event attracted many attendees with some eager to learn more about becoming a Big. The diverse crowd provided a great platform for BBBS to showcase the mission and vision, emphasizing the positive impact that mentorship can have on both the Bigs and Littles. It was a rewarding experience to connect with so many interested individuals from various backgrounds.

The following week, on August 22, BBBS participated in a back-to-school event at Erickson Elementary. This event provided an excellent opportunity to engage with over 100 parents and guardians. BBBS staff were on hand to discuss the organization’s programming and the benefits of school-based mentoring. The school-based program allows mentors (Bigs) to spend time with students (Littles) during lunchtime, with activities planned by BBBS staff. The event also served as a call to action for parents and guardians to consider volunteering as mentors, helping to support the school’s students throughout the academic year.

On August 26, BBBS attended a Lawrence Technological University back to school event where the agency passed out resource materials, signed potential Bigs and community partners up and more.

August wrapped up with a visit to Eastern Michigan University’s Job Fair on August 28th. BBBS staff were busy discussing their volunteer mentoring programs and the four job openings available at the agency. The table drew about 50 visitors, with a dozen expressing interest in the school-based mentoring program. Additionally, engaging conversations with EMU students highlighted potential future collaborations and employment opportunities.

Overall, August was a month of numerous successful community engagement for BBBS of Southeast Michigan. The team is excited to build on these connections and looks forward to continuing their mission of making a positive impact in the lives of young people throughout the region.

Interested in becoming a Big today? Find out more here.

There are many ways to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan, including:

Give a Little Time.

Volunteer or mentor with BBBS.

  • Change a life: Be a positive role model and friend to a young person in need.
  • Flexible options: Choose a mentoring program that fits your schedule (in-person or school-based).
  • Lasting impact: Create a meaningful friendship that empowers a child to reach their full potential.

Be Big.

Support the BBBS mission.

  • Donate: Every contribution helps BBBS continue its vital work.
  • Become a Match Maker: Support the program with a recurring monthly donation.
  • Spread the word: Share our mission and encourage others to get involved.

Share a Little Moment.

Share your story.