Making an Impact - Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts
For the past decade, James “Jimmy” Ahern has consulted with health care industry investors for Laidlaw & Company in New York City. Also a philanthropist, James “Jim” Ahern serves on the board of overseers of the Massachusetts Bay Big Brothers Big Sisters Foundation. This organization began in 1949 with a client list of 10, but now helps thousands of boys and girls each year.
A national survey of Little Brothers and Sisters demonstrates its success. More than three quarters of respondents said their “Bigs” helped them perform better in school and provided moral guidance. A full 90 percent said the relationships allowed them to make good life decisions.
Big Brothers Big Sisters is always looking for new volunteers. To become a “Big,” the agency has several suggestions:
1) Prepare for a commitment of at least a year. Research shows that relationships lasting more than a year reduce dangerous behavior and improve the chances of staying in school. Volunteers should have their own cars or access to public transportation, as well as an employment situation that permits residency of more than 12 months.
2) Prior experience is not required. However, the organization seeks people with similar interests who are patient and willing to build friendships before suggesting changes. “Bigs” should have the support of their spouses, especially during their own life events, such as marriage or pregnancy.
3) Comprehensive training is provided. Weekends are generally the best time for get-togethers, but “Bigs” should have the flexibility to visit on weekdays, in addition to going to locations of highest need.
Interested people in the Boston area should visit www.bbbsmb.org/volunteer/.
A national survey of Little Brothers and Sisters demonstrates its success. More than three quarters of respondents said their “Bigs” helped them perform better in school and provided moral guidance. A full 90 percent said the relationships allowed them to make good life decisions.
Big Brothers Big Sisters is always looking for new volunteers. To become a “Big,” the agency has several suggestions:
1) Prepare for a commitment of at least a year. Research shows that relationships lasting more than a year reduce dangerous behavior and improve the chances of staying in school. Volunteers should have their own cars or access to public transportation, as well as an employment situation that permits residency of more than 12 months.
2) Prior experience is not required. However, the organization seeks people with similar interests who are patient and willing to build friendships before suggesting changes. “Bigs” should have the support of their spouses, especially during their own life events, such as marriage or pregnancy.
3) Comprehensive training is provided. Weekends are generally the best time for get-togethers, but “Bigs” should have the flexibility to visit on weekdays, in addition to going to locations of highest need.
Interested people in the Boston area should visit www.bbbsmb.org/volunteer/.
