Youth development experts agree that, in addition to their parents, children need additional supportive, caring adults in their lives. TrueNorth staff works closely with parents to match every child with the right Big Brother or Big Sister. Each potential Big is screened, trained, and supervised to help ensure that the relationship will be safe and rewarding for everyone involved.

TrueNorth staff supports these individual, responsible relationships. And national research has shown that the shared experiences between Bigs and Littles have a direct and lasting impact on children’s lives. A Big can help a child discover a world of possibilities and opportunities simply by being a genuine friend. No other organization is doing the quality of work that Big Brothers Big Sisters does, or has the proven results we have. You can count on us.  

The Results
Researchers found that after 18 months of spending time with their Bigs, the Little Brothers and Little Sisters are: 46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs, 27% less likely to begin using alcohol, 52% less likely to skip school, 37% less likely to skip a class, more confident of their performance in schoolwork , one-third less likely to hit someone and get along better with their families.

Big Brothers and Big Sisters are, foremost, friends to children. They share everyday activities – exploring new horizons, and experiencing the joy that simple moments of friendship can bring. Within those little moments lie the big magic that a Big Brother or Big Sister brings to the life of a young person. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Newaygo County matches youth between the ages of 5-15. You can learn more about this life changing program by visiting the national Big Brothers Big Sisters website.

If you have a child who you believe can benefit by having a Big in their life, contact Lisa Schillaci today at (231) 652-1184 or lschillaci@truenorthservices.org.

Being a Big Brother or Big Sister is something that you can do. The only requirements are a willingness to make a new friend and a desire to share some fun with a young person. Our volunteers consistently say that being a Big is even more enjoyable and fulfilling for them than it is for their Little. If you have any questions regarding Big Brothers Big Sisters of Newaygo County, please contact Lisa Schillaci today at (231) 652-1184 or lschillaci@truenorthservices.org.

You can also submit your interest with Big Brothers Big Sisters online through the Publications & Forms link on the left.