Big Brothers Big Sisters Increasing College Presence

(KNSI) – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Minnesota is expanding its presence at area colleges and universities.

Recruiter Emmitt Edwards says the organization is building on the success of a pilot program at Saint Cloud State.

“We will now be opening one, hopefully as soon as January, at the College of St Benedict and St John’s. And that will be on Thursdays from noon to one every other Thursday, either the first and third or the second and fourth.”

The college students will be mentoring program members from Kennedy Community School in St. Joseph.

January is also National Mentor Month and the nonprofit has set an ambitious goal to meet. The organization is looking for 100 new inquiries in just 31 days. Edwards says it is easy to take that first step.

“You can walk right into our building over on Cooper Ave. Otherwise, you can visit our website, bigdefenders.org, to get ahold of us.”

Edwards’ direct phone number is 320-258-4537.

Edwards says two of the biggest concerns from potential bigs are time commitment and doubts over their ability to be mentors. He says programs exist that require as little as two hours a month and most littles are just looking for someone to hang out with. All they want is a companion.

Edwards appeared on KNSI Monday morning with host Bob Hughes.

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