BBBS Washtenaw
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SUPPORTING BBBS IS A WIN/WIN

4/9/2021

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Big Brothers Big Sisters of Washtenaw County is grateful to our partners in the corporate and small business community for their support. Not only do they sponsor events, like our upcoming Golf Fore Kids’ Sake fundraiser, they spread the word about our mission to employees, their families and the people they do business with in our area. This helps BBBS recruit more volunteers (otherwise known as Bigs) and make more matches for kids (otherwise known as Littles) seeking a positive adult role model in their lives. 

But what do companies get out of this deal? Placement of company logos on print, website and social media campaigns, signage at events and complimentary tickets are all customary in terms of immediate recognition and gratitude. However, we believe the real benefits of partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters may be more long term...and meaningful.

Consider the framework of developmental relationships, as defined by the Search Institute:

  1. Express Care: We matter to one another
  2. Challenge Growth: We push one another to keep getting better
  3. Provide Support: We help one another complete tasks and achieve goals
  4. Share Power: We treat one another with respect and allow room for discussion
  5. Expand Possibilities: We connect one another with people and places that broaden our worlds

Now,  think about the ideal relationship a company might want to share with its employees and read that framework again. The skills our Bigs and Littles learn to cultivate in the BBBS program are research-based skills that create the foundation for productive employees and satisfied employers, not to mention wonderful human beings! Don’t just take our word for it - top worldwide employment website, Indeed, recently listed the Top 9 Qualities of a Good Employee. Look familiar?  BBBS is helping create self-assured business and community leaders that can communicate, collaborate and achieve, right here in our own backyard. 

The Washtenaw County business community is an integral partner in our mission to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Please consider how you can get involved. Check out our Golf Fore Kids’ Sake website to learn more about becoming a sponsor or sending a foursome to golf with us at Barton Hill Country Club on Monday, May 24th. There’s many other ways to partner with BBBS, one we’re sure will fit your business and community service goals. Contact Anne Marie Venereoni for more information.

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Surviving the Homestretch of This School Year.

3/23/2021

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As we begin the last leg of this crazy school year. Many students are returning to in-person learning, while others will close out the school year virtually.  We know that it has already been a strange and stressful year and that this transition means more change.  If your child is returning to in-person we know your family may be experiencing many adjustments this week such as new bus schedules, anxiety about being around other kids again, adjusting to new schedules, and more.  The youth that are remaining virtual may continue to experience social isolation and virtual burnout.  No matter how your child is ending the school year, we will continue to be here to support your family and our mentors. 

As part of that support we wanted to offer a few helpful tips to ease the anxiety of returning to the classroom, and the fatigue of the virtual learning process. Many of these tips apply to both in person and virtual students, but it is essential to remember that every child is different. Any effective coping strategy must begin with meeting a person where they are, regardless of their age. 

3 TIPS FOR HELPING YOUR CHILD COPE WITH ANXIETY 
  1. Talk to your child about the way emotions can impact us mentaly and physically. Work together to develop and practice self soothing techniques they can use in school when they begin to feel anxious. 
  2. Establish and maintain household routines. After school routines can be especially important, remove your mask, wash your hands, change into something comfy, can all help relax a child and possibly make them more willing to talk about their day. 
  3. Be observant and a good listener. Understand and watch for the warning signs of high anxiety. Check in with your child regularly, listen and show empathy when they are willing to share. Do not hesitate to reach out for help if you or your child needs it. 

3 TIPS FOR MANAGING SCREEN FATIGUE AND ISOLATION
  1. Take short breaks. If your child is finding it difficult to focus in the middle of the day, give them permission to take 3-5 for a brain break. Get a breath of fresh air, stretch it out with a few yoga poses, even a walk to the kitchen for a cold glass of water can be just what they need to refocus their attention.
  2. Communicate with your child's teacher. Creating a partnership between yourself and your child’s teacher can help set your child up for success. Share your household expectations for virtual learning, and what you know works well for your child. Remember educators, parents, students are all working outside their comfort zone, but we can get through this together. 
  3. Get outside! Especially with spring here, when the school day is over, shut down the screens, go for a walk or ride a bike with a neighborhood friend. Even during the school day you can open your windows, or better yet take your virtual classroom outside. 


We hope you found these tips helpful. Please don’t ever hesitate to reach out for support, we are here to help. Remember, at BBBS we are Bigger Together!

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Location: 
11 W. Michigan Ave
Ypsilanti, MI 48197

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Contact Us

Email

info@bbbswashtenaw.org

PHONE

734-975-0933

FAX

734-896-3953
  • Home
    • Contact Us >
      • Board of Directors
      • Help Source Records
    • Meet Our Partners
    • Jobs and Internships
  • Volunteer
    • COVID 19 Resources for Bigs
    • Other Volunteer Opportunities
    • Activities for Matches
    • Double Your Impact
    • Business with a Heart
  • Youth & Families
    • Covid19 Resources for Families
    • Upcoming Events for Matches
  • Resources
  • Our Stories
    • Match of The Month
    • Community Corner
    • BBBS News
    • From the Director
  • Events
    • Golf Fore Kids' Sake
    • A Fall Evening
    • The BIG Little Telethon
  • Support
    • Partnership Opportunities
    • AdoptAFamily
    • Amazon Smile and Kroger Rewards