Big Brothers Big Sisters Seeking Volunteer Mentors

NEWARK, NJ – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson and Union Counties is currently seeking volunteer mentors for its Community Based Mentoring program, which involves an individual mentoring with a local child or teen, age 6 to 18, with a commitment of just four hours per month for one year. Any resident — age 20 or older — can apply to become a mentor.

Mentoring is a meaningful, high-impact way to volunteer in one’s community and the positive impact on a child’s life can last a lifetime.

The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders recently entered into a partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters to build the Community Based Mentoring program in Union County. As part of the partnership, Union County recently launched the ‘Bigs in Blue’ program, aimed at enlisting mentors from the law enforcement field.

“Law enforcement officers, EMT’s, firefighters and other first responders are always on duty. They inspire our youth by living out the values of community involvement and civic responsibility every day,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados.

Big Brothers Big Sisters is one of the oldest and largest youth mentoring organizations in the U.S., and it is especially active in the Union County area. Its mission is to provide children facing adversity with strong relationships and positive adult role models. Volunteer mentors in the Community Based Mentoring program have the flexibility to schedule their own time, with no previous experience necessary. All mentors receive training and professional support from Big Brothers Big Sisters.

For more information about the Community Based Mentoring program, or to apply to become a mentor in Union County, call office coordinator Nathalie Hernandez, 908-527-4880 or contact nahernandez@ucnj.org.