The Calhoun Journal is proud to offer a monthly feature shining a spotlight on the remarkable work of local Calhoun County non-profits. This dedicated platform offers a unique opportunity for these organizations to share their impactful initiatives, accomplishments, and the essential services they provide to our community. By highlighting the tireless efforts of these non-profits, we aim to raise awareness and foster support for their missions. If you represent a non-profit organization in Calhoun County and wish to have your work featured, we invite you to complete the short form. Together, let’s celebrate and amplify the positive contributions of our local non-profits.
January 2023 Non-Profit Spotlight
Calhoun County, AL – Northeast Alabama – Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Northeast Alabama, a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating and supporting one-to-one mentoring relationships, is currently seeking male volunteers to make a positive impact on the lives of local youth. The organization, in operation since 1982, has been instrumental in matching children facing adversity with safe, positive mentors, resulting in improved grades, behavior, increased self-esteem, and more.
As the need for male mentors is high, BBBS emphasizes the importance of men volunteering their time to positively influence the lives of children. Research has shown that mentoring relationships play a crucial role in shaping the future of young individuals by providing support, guidance, and friendship. The organization encourages men in the community to consider becoming Big Brothers, as they are currently in high demand. By spending just a few hours a couple of times a month, volunteers can give a child the invaluable gift of friendship, positively impacting their lives.
Big Brothers Big Sisters operates with the mission to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring professionally supported one-to-one relationships. The organization believes that these relationships can change lives for the better, forever. The mentorship program aims to support children in navigating challenges and reaching their full potential.
In addition to the call for volunteers, BBBS is excited to announce their upcoming charity event, “Mardi Gras, 2024!” The event will take place at 210 At The Tracks in Gadsden on February 3rd, 2024. All proceeds from the event will directly benefit local youth through mental health aid, future workforce development, and STEM programs.
Katrina Lawless-Graben, the new CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Alabama, personally invites the community to participate in “Mardi Gras, 2024!” The event serves as an opportunity to support the organization’s efforts in providing essential services to the youth in the community.
BBBS also emphasized the impact of private donations on their ability to recruit, screen, match, and support mentoring relationships. The organization has served 235 youth aged 8-21 in Etowah, Calhoun, Cherokee, DeKalb, and Talladega counties. Their impact assessments in October 2023 revealed significant improvements in various aspects of the lives of BBBS youth and High School Mentors.
The organization operates at full capacity, but continues to receive high demand for its services. Referrals come from various sources, including group homes, Juvenile Justice, and the Department of Human Resources (DHR). To meet the growing demand, BBBS is actively seeking volunteers, corporate partners, and sponsors.
The shortage of male mentors has led to a long waiting list of “Littles in Waiting,” especially boys aged 7-14. These boys are seeking positive role models to guide them in various aspects of life, from learning to fish to playing an instrument or engaging in sports. There is less of a waiting for girls, because there tend to be more female mentor; however please don’t let stop woman from volunteering too!
If you are interested in helping in Calhoun County please contact Program Mgr Misty Gardner and she will help you with your application. Individuals interested in making a difference in the lives of local youth by becoming a mentor or supporting BBBS through sponsorship or donations can contact the organization at the following addresses:
Office Address:
1400 Noble Street
Anniston, AL 36201
Phone: 256-241-3525 (Office hours by appointment)
Mailing Address:
PO Box 993
Gadsden, AL 35902
Main Office:
801 East Broad Street
Gadsden, AL 35903
Phone: 256-546-5079 (Office hours: 9-5)
For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Alabama, visit their website at www.bbbsneal.org
