Freedom has a large number of clubs, but many are overlooked. One club that has a large impact not only in the school, but also in the community is Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS). BBBS is a club at Freedom that focuses on a sibling-like relationship between members of the club in high school and younger students in the elementary school. BBBS serves as an outlet for high school students to grow in their leadership skills and their social skills by mentoring younger students in the elementary school.

BBBS is a 2 year commitment for bigs, meaning that each high school student who signs up for the club, must serve as a big for 2 school years during their time in the high school. Each year, bigs (high school members) are randomly assigned a little (elementary student) for the year whom they meet weekly throughout the school year.

Every Wednesday, bigs and littles meet in the elementary school. Bigs often help their little with homework, play games with them, or converse and get to know each other. The bigs main goal is to be a support system for their little. The bigs being there for their little, who may not have someone to turn to, or someone to help them with their homework, is pivotal in the success of the littles.

“I think BBBS’s importance is not only giving the kids an opportunity to connect with someone on a deeper level and have the undivided attention of someone who can help them no matter what they need help with, but also the benefit for the big to have the experience of helping the littles,” Payton Bickerstaff (12) said.

On special occasions such as holidays, Bigs will come down to celebrate with their little and do holiday-themed activities. Some holidays that BBBS celebrates are; Halloween, Thanksgiving or Christmas. Celebrating with their littles is a great way for them to connect on a deeper level with each other.

“My favorite part about Big Brothers Big Sisters is the fact that spending just an hour a week with our littles makes a difference in their lives,” Megan Ellis (12) said. “I also like the bonding aspect, where I get to bond with my littles on a weekly basis.”

In conclusion, Big Brothers Big Sisters plays a large role in shaping the futures of young individuals through meaningful mentorship. By creating relationships and providing guidance to their little, the organization helps children and teenagers build social skills, improve their academic performance, and develop essential life skills. Supporting and participating in Big Brothers Big Sisters can make a lasting impact on both the bigs and littles, proving that mentorship truly matters.