If you were ever looking for a fun and effective way to help Big Brothers Big Sisters, Bowl for Kids' Sake is it! Similar to a walk-a-thon, BFKS participants form bowling teams of 5 and work together to raise a minimum of $50 a person in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters. Then everyone comes together for a huge bowling party in celebration of a successful campaign. Raising $50 is as easy as asking five people for a $10 pledge. If everyone raised the minimum, they would raise nearly $30,000! But you don't have to stop at $50. This year's BFKS will feature raffle prizes for bowlers who go above the minimum including a day trip to St. Augustine and an Orlando vacation.

By participating in this event, you can be a part of a fun and effective campaign to help Big Brothers Big Sisters match more children in your community.

If you are interested in becoming a bowler, volunteering in the planning process, or just want more information, please contact Roxanna Garcia by email or by phone at 352-375-2525 x 19.

Research has found that significant physical absence of a parent has profound effects on child development.  Children of incarcerated parents are seven times more likely to become involved in the juvenile and adult criminal justice systems.  Parental arrest and confinement often lead to stress, trauma, stigmatization and separation problems for children.  These problems may be compounded by existing poverty, violence, substance abuse, high-crime environments, child abuse and neglect, multiple caregivers and/or prior separations.’

Children of prisoners need mentors to be caring, responsible and committed adults who are role models, teachers and friends.  BBBS of Mid-Florida has matched sixty-nine children with parents in prison with caring Big Brothers and Big Sisters since October, 2006.  We have twelve children waiting for a suitable Big.

The Bigs and Littles meet weekly to share new experiences, work on academics, play games and become trusted friends.  They have attended BBBS events such as Littlepalloze, Supplied for Success, Cinderella, UF volleyball games, Hippodrome performances and presented a dance at the BBBS Breakfast in August.

BBBS is looking for both adults interested in mentoring these children and for additional children with a parent in prison.   Bigs can be the positive intervention that enables children to become productive adults.

This month's Big and Little spotlight is on Andy and George. George's mom signed him up for the Bigs in Schools program, and I have to say when I first met George I knew that whoever he was matched with would have to be someone who was willing and ready to have some nonstop fun! Andy is the Big Brother that came to mind and they seemed like they would be the perfect match.

Andy & George have now been matched for over a year, and according to Andy, “ He always greets me with a running jump and what only can be described as an attack hug.” I had a chance to witness one of these greetings between them and it definitely gives you an awesome feeling on the inside!

Matches are always made to benefit the children we serve, but more often than not the Bigs gain benefits as well. “George is a window into my own childhood. I enjoy most the ability to look inquisitively at the world through the eyes of a child.” says Andy. What does George have to say about Andy? George says, “Andy is nice to me, he is fun, and he is helpful.”

Andy is currently working with George on his writing skills. To make the writing experience fun they are writing holiday stories together.

The following Matches have been matched through to the Little's 18th birthday:

Big Sister Donna Cottle and Little Sister LaQuinda

Matched from January 21, 2000 to April 4, 2007

Big Sister Marybeth Rinzler and Little Sister Celeste

Matched from Aug. 31, 2000 to February 14, 2007

Big Brothers Big Sisters is looking to hire a Development Director. This position is responsible for fund development and mentor recruitment for the agency.  Candidates must have excellent writing and computer skills, know how to manage their time well, and work well independently. Grant writing experience a plus. BA and two years experience preferred.  Experience may substitute for BA. Submit resume and cover letter to roxanna@bbbsmidflorida.org.  For more detailed job description, please visit www.bbbsmidflorida.org

It is now possible to donate to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Florida online! All gifts are tax deductible. For more information, please click here.