The new Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Washington is settling into her position as well as making a new home in the Pacific Northwest. Keith Ann Campbell and her husband Reggie moved from Florida, which has brought them close to three of their grandchildren. “I’ve known about Big Brother Big Sisters for years and years. It’s an amazing national organization,” says Campbell. “My favorite part is helping the kids,” she emphasizes.
Big Brother Big Sisters is all about creating one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Their local organization has been serving Thurston, Mason, Lewis, Pacific, and Grays Harbor counties for over 40 years.
“Mentoring works,” affirms Campbell. The national organization did a 19-year study that found youth with a mentor increased their income by over 20% throughout their career. Matches are built on shared interests, trust, commitment, and providing individualized support.
“Matching a child with an adult is expensive. It costs between $2,000 and $3,000 per match. I have a lot of grant writing and financial experience,” notes Campbell. In-house grant writing allows more dollars for direct services. Funds are spent on training and extensive background checks to ensure maximum child safety. “We have very stringent curriculum teaching social/emotional and life skills, too,” adds Campbell.
Currently there are over 250 volunteers, and Big Brothers Big Sisters is always looking for more mentors. “There are always Keith Ann Campbell Welcomed as New Executive Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Washington more kids than adults.” There is also a program where high schoolers get to be mentors to students in middle school.
High school students can be part of career mentoring. BBBS partners with area businesses that assist with skill building, resumé writing, working with customers, and doing interviews. Youth can learn more about banking, architecture, and forestry. Big Brothers Big Sisters is happy to connect with more business partners.
By partnering with families, volunteers, and community members, Big Brothers Big Sisters ensures every child has the opportunity to succeed, whether it’s through academic support, exploring new interests, or building the confidence to face life’s challenges.
For Additional Information
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Washington
swwabigs.org
BY MARY ELLEN PSALTIS