Being a role model is to be a person whose behavior, example or success is or can be mirrored by others, especially by a younger crowd. The challenge of being a role model is not always a choice.  Young children are always observing and modeling the actions of everyone around them. That is why the big sister little sister program finds responsible teenagers; boys and girls to act as a role model for children.

Juniors Jaime Purdie and Ivy Thompson have volunteered this year for the great opportunity to be a role model for younger girls.  The program has shown drastic results for children.  According to the program leaders, kids are 46 percent less likely to begin using illegal drugs, 27 percent less likely to begin using alcohol and 52 percent less likely to skip school.  These huge impacts are all because of great teens like Purdie and Thompson.

Not only are the “big sisters” teaching these children valuable life lessons, the teens learn a thing or two in return. It was shown to the BBBS volunteers that the “littles” were more confident of their performance in school work and getting along better with their families and friends.

“This program has taught me to be a better leader and show kids that they can live upto their full potential.  I have really enjoyed being part of big brother, big sister so I am hoping to join again,” said Purdie.

The local BBBS program meets every Thursday from 3:30-4:30pm at Lily Lake Elementary.  They all participate in a wide variety of activities with their specified big brother or sister, like a friendly game of tag  or even get on the more creative side with unique projects.

“In the program, a big sister or big brother gets paired up with a little sister or little brother according to how the match coordinator finds who would work well together.  We go to Lily Lake’s gym and play tag, do arts and crafts, play games like would you rather or play outside,” said Thompson.

The children really enjoy having someone to look up to.  It is like having a real sibling playing games and talking for the hour that they meet. The big siblings influence the children to be the best that they can be. It is very important to the “littles”.

“The purpose of the program is to be involved with our ‘little sisters’ and provide them with positive role models to look up to,” said Purdie.

Although they cannot fill the role of a real sibling, the big brothers and sisters volunteer their time to give some happiness and comfort to a younger child and brighten up their day.  All the while teaching them life lessons for the future that will never be forgotten.