We’ll Be There is the promise that Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri (BBBSEMO) makes to our Little Brothers and Sisters. It takes many adults—parent, teacher, Big Brother or Big Sister, agency staff and donor—to fulfill this promise. We cannot commit to “fix it,” but we can commit to “be there” for encouragement and support.

As you look at the goals you are setting for 2012, consider resolving to make a difference in a child’s life by volunteering at Big Brothers Big Sisters. Our Big Brothers and Big Sisters are happy to cheer their Littles on as they work to achieve their own goals. The support and encouragement you can give a child as a Big Brother or Big Sister can inspire and transform.

Big Brother Dave O’Brien said he looks forward to providing guidance to his Little Brother DeVonte as DeVonte begins thinking and planning for the future. “My hopes for DeVonte’s future would be college, a great job and a great life,” Dave said.

“I can kind of show him how we connect the dots—how we make all that work,” Dave continues, adding, “You just can’t lay a goal out there to make that happen. You’ve got to map out how you’re going to do it.”

Dave became involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters because he wanted to give back to the community. He believes being a Big makes a dramatic difference in each child’s life—and for such a little bit of time invested.

Big Brothers Big Sisters currently has more than 1,000 children waiting for someone to Be There for them in 2012. Can we count on you to give your time?

For more information on how to become a Big Brother or Big sister, or to get your company or organization involved, contact Vivian Gibson at 314-361-5900 or vgibson@bbbsemo.org. Also, be sure to visit Big Brothers Big Sisters on the web at www.BBBSEMO.org.