“We are often asked why be a Big Brother or Big Sister?” said Tammy Young, Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters.  “It’s one thing to hear an explanation from me, but hearing it from a Big in our program is something else.  Christine Anderson-Staiduhar’s is one of our Bigs.  She really summed up what we are all about.  Please read below.”

“So, why be a Big Brother or Sister? For me it was just a natural gravitation.  I have supported BBBS for years but it wasn’t until 2015 that I finally said it’s time!  I wanted to become a Big to offer opportunities to a child they don’t normally have.  I also hoped to be a positive influence in their life.  Little did I know there would be so much more!

My Little sister is a fiery redhead by the name of Brooke.  Let me tell you, we are quite the match.  She is super funny, quick witted, has a huge heart and a bold personality.  She has moments where she is completely fearless and she has moments of absolute silliness!

So what kind of stuff do we do?  Hiking, roller blading, taking photos, crafting, cooking, baking and lots of eating!  Up next is BBBS’ Rock ‘n Bowl for Kids’ Sake.  We’re raising money through selling a t-shirt I designed.  All proceeds go directly to BBBS.  https://www.booster.com/the-adventures-of-brooke-christine I like to think of our time together as our adventures.  No matter how simple an outing is, it can always be an adventure!

The thing I found the most interesting is how much I have learned about myself through this process.  I learned patience.  Not everyone goes at the same high speed as me.  Communication too.  Setting expectations and knowing sometimes those can go downhill too!  Each day I learn new ways to communicate with my Little.  It’s not my way or the highway.  It is our way and how are we going to get there.

Thank you so very much for taking the time to read OUR story.  I hope that maybe we have inspired you to donate a dollar for our Bowl for Kids’ Sake team.  All money raised stays in the program and helps BBBS grow.  And just maybe you are inspired enough to become a Big yourself!”

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Fond du Lac County is a United Way Agency that assists children with social, emotional and character development through one-to-one mentoring relationships with caring adults.  The agency matches children with a Big Brother, Big Sister, Big Couple or Big Family in a community or school based program.  Children aged 6 through 13 can enroll in the program through a parent or guardian referral.  Volunteers need to be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license for the community based program, 16 years old for the school based program.  For more information about the program or to volunteer, call 920-922-8200 or download an application now:   BBBSFDL_VolunteerEnrollmentApplication.pdf.