Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine is looking for Knox and Lincoln County children, ages 5-14, who would benefit from having a caring adult mentor. The agency currently has carefully screened, trained and caring female mentors ready to be matched in the Damariscotta-Newcastle area in Lincoln County and in Camden, Rockland, Owls Head, and South Thomaston in Knox County.

BBBS is also hoping to identify men in Waldo, Knox and Lincoln County who would be interested in learning more about becoming a Big Brother to a prospective Little Brother. “We have many boys who would benefit from having a male role model in their lives,” said Gwendolyn Hudson, Community-Based Director, who oversees the agency’s efforts to match Bigs and Littles. “We strive to match young children in our program with adults who have similar interests and enjoy the same activities. We also offer complete training for new Bigs, and our staff provides ongoing professional support each month as their relationship develops,” she says.

Research shows that having another positive adult mentor in a child’s life can lead to youth having higher aspirations, greater confidence, and educational success. It also helps the child build better relationships and avoid risky behaviors.

“We often tell people — you don’t have to change your life to change a child’s life. Our mentors spend an average of 2-3 hours a week with their Littles, enjoying activities together and just hanging out. The important thing is for the child to have a friend they can count on,” Hudson said.

If you have, or know of, a child who could benefit from having another caring adult in their life, or would like to learn more about becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister for a local child, please contact Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine at 236-BBBS (2227) or email gwendolyn@bbbsmidmaine.org.