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Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mercer
County, Inc.
ADDRESS
535 E. Franklin St.
Trenton, NJ 08610
PHONE
609-656-1000
FAX
609-656-1122
INTERNET ADDRESS
ADMINISTRATOR
Susan M. Dunning, Executive Director
CONTACT NAME
Kim Cody, Director of Programs
DESCRIPTION
A private agency working to make a positive difference in the
lives of children by promoting self-esteem, expanding awareness
of life's opportunities and providing them with guidance and
support through long-term, one-on-one mentoring with caring
adults.
PROGRAMS
Traditional Community-Based: Volunteers provide one-on-one
time and attention in their communities, typically two to four
times a month. During these unstructured outings, volunteers
provide opportunities for children to enjoy the companionship
of a caring adult outside of the home and school in various
sporting, cultural, educational and other activities.
Couples Match: The same as the traditional match above,
except that a child is matched with a husband-and-wife team.
College Based: Provides a volunteer opportunity for individuals
who are interested but do not have a lot of free time. Mentors
spend one hour per week with their mentees at a local
elementary or middle school within walking or short driving
distance. Visits can take place during the course of the school
day or at an extended day school program. Students from
Education, Psychology and Sociology backgrounds are especially
encouraged to apply as this opportunity provides hands-on
experience with younger children. Mentors talk with their
mentees, play games, and also spend at least 15 minutes
helping with school work. The goal is to form a fun, positive
friendship while being a positive role model. Professional case
managers provide assistance and support to the matches on an
ongoing basis.
School-Based: Provides a way for busy individuals to volunteer
and for companies to give back to the community. In this
program, companies typically allow employees to volunteer one
hour of their work week during the academic school year,
providing children one-on-one time and attention in their
schools.
High School Bigs Programs: Matches local high school students
with elementary and middle school children. The
mentoring/tutoring is done at the mentee's school site. Case
managers closely supervise and provide assistance for the
matches. The commitment is one hour per week for one
academic year, with visits that may take place after school, at
lunch, or at any point during the day. Students learn to
become caring adults while providing a positive role model for
younger children in the community.
FOUNDED
1975
SUBJECTS
Children and Youth
Mentoring
Social Service Organizations
LAST UPDATED
3/08