2008 News

December 4, 2008

Commissioners Join Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bucks County to Cut Ribbon on New Conference Room

During an afternoon ceremony in Jamison, the Board of Bucks County Commissioners proudly joined members of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bucks County (BBBSBC) to cut the ribbon on a much-needed private conference room at the organization’s York Rd. facility. The conference room, which will be utilized to conduct confidential meetings that are integral to the success of BBBSBC’s programs, is a converted garage that was funded by Bucks County’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).

“This year marks the 45th anniversary of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bucks County, and we offer our support of its mission to match our youth with positive mentors who create a lasting impact,” noted Commissioner Chairman James F. Cawley, Esq. “On an annual basis, hundreds of bonds are forged, bonds that help build a stronger Bucks County community.”

Uniting with the commissioners for the ceremony were Katie Farrell, president of the BBBSBC, Mae O’Brien, executive director, and program participants Andrea Imre – who is a Big Sister volunteer – and Nick Page, a Little Brother. Nick attends Log College Middle School.

During 2007, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bucks County served 737 “matches.” The organization anticipates it will serve approximately the same total during calendar year 2008. The total number of children served during 2007 was 1,019, with a similar projection for this year. The program features school and clergy referrals, allowing big brothers and sisters to meet with their matches approximately twice a month – depending on the comfort level of their relationship. There are approximately 300 youngsters on the waiting list.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bucks County depends on hundreds of community volunteers to produce positive outcomes. During a recent study of BBBSBC mentors, 87 percent saw an increase in children’s self-confidence, 82 percent observed an increase in the client’s use of school resources, and 67 percent saw in improvement in the youth’s ability to make decisions.

To volunteer, an individual must be at least 18-years old. For information about ways you can help Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bucks County, please call 215-343-8260 (ext. 109).