Big Brothers of the Suncoast kicks off its '100 Men in 100 Days' volunteer campaign

Sarasota Herald-Tribune
·2 min read
Longtime Big Brother Rich Puckett, left, with his son, Jason Puckett and Jason’s Little Brother Andrew. “Being a mentor may not change the world, but it will change the world of the child you mentor," Rich Puckett said.
Longtime Big Brother Rich Puckett, left, with his son, Jason Puckett and Jason’s Little Brother Andrew. “Being a mentor may not change the world, but it will change the world of the child you mentor," Rich Puckett said.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast has launched its “100 Men in 100 Days” campaign to encourage men to become a Big Brother and volunteer with the organization.

The recruitment campaign comes at a good time. There are 107 boys waiting to be matched with a male role model, according to the organization. Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast serves Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, Highlands, Hardee, Charlotte, Lee, Hendry, and Collier counties.

Mentoring is one of the most rewarding, enjoyable and simple things a volunteer can do. For as little as one hour a week, volunteers can add joy to the life of a child, and contribute greatly to his or her potential.

The core mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters is to provide a child with individual time and attention. Outings filled with conversations and shared activities foster a relationship that helps youth manage the everyday challenges that are part of growing up.

Many relationships between "Bigs" and "Littles" fall under the organization's Community-Based programs. These are one-to-one outings and activities, doing things they enjoy together, such as taking a walk in the park, going to museum, listening to music, and hanging out and talking.

Some Bigs meet their Littles on the weekends. Others get together in the evenings. Each match is unique and develops a schedule that works for both.

Big Brother Rich Puckett has been mentoring young men for many years. Puckett said he has seen firsthand the impact a positive role model can have on a child’s life.

“Being a mentor may not change the world, but it will change the world of the child you mentor," Puckett said.

Professional staff from Big Brothers Big Sisters carefully build and support each match and ensure it meets strict standards. Research shows that having the positive influence of a Big makes a real difference in the life of a child. Littles experience improvements in academic performance, behavior and relationships at home and elsewhere, according to independent studies.

To learn more or to become a Big and contribute to a child’s potential, call 855-501-BIGS (2447), 941-488-4009, or visit bbbssun.org.

Submitted by Gina Taylor

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast launches volunteer campaign