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BBBS of Miami County Welcomes You!! Welcome to the new home of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami County! We are very excited that you decided to learn more about our program and how you can help to make a difference in a life of a Miami County child. You can use this site to learn more about our community based mentoring program, as well as learn about upcoming event and how you can get involved. You can even sign up online to become a “Big” or enroll a child. Special Events : Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami County shows appreciation for supporters Following the superhero theme, Erin Lyon, affiliate director, announced Lee Chapman of Pleasanton as the Hero of the Year and Allison Apple of Shawnee, formerly of Louisburg, and Don and Janet Poore of Paola as the Bigs of the Year. Not only is Chapman a Big Brother who spends time with his Little Brother each week, he also is a financial supporter of the organization and is helping plan and sponsor the annual benefit motorcycle ride in September, Lyon said. “I cannot thank him enough for all he has done and continues to do for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami County,” Lyon said. Hali Wimbush, Apple's Little Sister, said their relationship has given her self-confidence. “We have a great bond, and nothing will ever change that,” Wimbush said. “Having Allison in my life has helped me so much. “Allison has influenced my life in a positive way. I am a better person because of her,” she said. Lyon read a letter from Little Brother Jacob Maley, who thanked the Poores for helping make his life easier and for some great experiences, including a trip to a Kansas City Chiefs game. Jacob's mother, Michelle Maley, wrote a statement from a parent's point of view. As a single mother, she thought it was important for her 5-year-old son to have a male role model, but she was uncertain about consenting to a match with a couple, because she was concerned they would try to take her child from her. Her fears were set aside after she met the Poores. “I truly felt they just wanted to help my child,” Maley wrote. “So a relationship began that was more than I could have ever hoped for. “They have shared and showed Jacob things I never could have ... They have given us structure, confidence, support and a quality friendship like no other,” she said. David L. Miller, board of directors member, thanked the dozens of businesses and individuals that lend financial support to Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Lyon introduced the Big Brothers and Big Sisters. Through Big Brothers Big Sisters, adults are matched one-on-one or as couples with a child, based on common interests. They spend six to eight hours per month together, playing games or sports, going to movies or events, or just being a friend and listening. For information about becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister or to refer a child to the program, call 294-4403. |