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Being a Big Sister has big rewards for all involved
By Deanna R. Adams • Today's Family Writer
 This is the third in an ongoing series that profiles local people who mentor a local child through Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is one of the largest and oldest youth mentoring organizations in the United States. The program provides children, ages 6 through 15, with quality mentoring relationships through supportive adults and educational programs, benefiting both children and their families. The Northeast Ohio branch covers the Lake, Geauga and Ashtabula areas.
Val Helmick, Mentor resident and mother of two, had read about it for years in her local newspaper. “Every time I’d see those ads, I’d think, I should do that. One day, I finally heeded the call.”
She adds that since her own kids are now adults, she still “had a lot of love left in me.” Love and friendship are the foundation to this longtime organization, which has proven to be of great benefit to its communities. Statistics show that Little Brothers and Little Sisters are 52% less likely to skip school. They are 46 % less likely to start using drugs. And they are more likely to get along with their family, as well as their peers.
In short, Big Brothers Big Sisters makes a big difference.
SIMPLE THINGS IN LIFE ARE FREE
It wasn’t hard for Val to become a Big Sister. After the required interview and home visit, she was matched with seven-year-old Maggie, who lives in Willoughby. Matches are made based on common interests between the adult and child.
“Maggie and I are very well suited for one another,” Helmick says. “We’re both outdoor people so we like to go exploring on the beach, sledding in the winter, or just hanging out outside.”
Even rain can’t put a damper on their fun.
“When we first starting meeting, it always seemed to be raining,” she says. “So one day we decided to put on our bathing suits and we walked around the block stomping in all the puddles. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen such joy in a child. And it was something so simple.”
That simple form of entertainment demonstrates that being a Big (as the adults are called) doesn’t have to cost money, and yet the rewards are invaluable. Other activities can include playing games together, shooting hoops at a park, going to the movies, or simply enjoying a pizza together. The goal is always on building friendships.
Little Maggie loves having a Big Sister. “We do lots of things together,” she says. “I don’t get bored. We swim, play in the snow, play baseball and basketball, and ride bikes.”
Helmick adds that they also do more quieter things. “Sometimes, I give her a can of shaving cream and little pie plates and food color and just let her be creative."
Maggie has a twin sister and teenage brother, all of whom have a Big. “As a single parent, it’s very helpful to me,” says their mom, Jennifer. “They each get some one-on-one time with another adult and get to enjoy different experiences.”
BIG LOVE
Helmick says that anyone considering being a Big should be aware that it is a true commitment. “ It’s extremely important that you pick them up when you say you will, and be on time, so the child doesn’t worry that you’re not coming, which they will.” She says that since she came from a divorced family, she understands how children perceive things and how important it is not to disappoint them. “You really have to earn their trust, but once you do, it creates this wonderful bond.”
There are currently more than 300 children enrolled in the program, with 40 still awaiting a Big Brother or Big Sister. Maggie’s mom, Jennifer, highly recommends it to all single parents. “Big Brother Big Sisters is a fantastic organization. My kids love their Bigs and I feel they have an extended family.”
Helmick agrees. “Being a Big Sister is a lot like being a grandparent - you enjoy them on a different level than you do your own kids. You have more time to just enjoy their company. I could have the worst day and I go pick up Maggie and she’ll give me a hug. That puts everything into perspective on what’s really important. I remember one day we were together, Maggie just started singing and I knew she was happy.”
“Times like that, you don’t have to wonder if you’re doing what’s right. They show you.”
For more information call 440-352-2526 or visit www.bbbsneo.org.
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