Big Brothers Big Sisters
BBBS relationships accomplishes Big Things

 Little Sister Heather Whitely and volunteer Big Sister, Kathy Chaffins both of Greenville were matched in 1999 and have had a consistent relationship for nearly 13 years.  Heather, who was just 5 years old at the time of the match, is the daughter of Rhonda Draper of Greenville. 

Rhonda originally entered her daughter in the program because she wanted Heather to have a support system, someone to offer guidance and encouragement in school. That wish was exactly what Heather received from being a part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program.  This match relationship which recently closed, only due to the fact that the child turned 18 years of age and successfully completed high school, is a wonderful example of how our community volunteers are positively impacting the youth of our communities.  Heather not only graduated from High School, she has secured herself a spot at Miami Jacobs college in vetenarian studies and is currently working to help pay for her future schooling.  

Kathy stated that, “Without Big Brothers Big Sisters, Heather and I wouldn’t be where we are today.  We will be a part of each other’s lives for many years to come.  Heather is a true blessing in my life”.  Kathy further stated, “She may have learned a lot from me but I can say I have learned so much from her as well.” 

Over the course of this relationship, both parties experienced many life changes. 

However, even with job changes and busy schedules the two always managed to stay in touch and plan outings. Big Sister Kathy was there for Heather through many milestones along the way.  Celebrating getting her drivers, shopping for prom dresses and even a vacation or two.  The Big Sister Little Sister duo formed such a wonderful bond that they truly are like family. Heather accompanied Kathy on many family outings and reunions along the way. 

Case manager, Jennifer Bruns reported that, “This match is such an amazing testimony of the results of a long term match relationship. These two, even though their match is closed through our organization, will continue to carry on a life time, “friendship.”  She further stated, “Thirteen years is a long time to volunteer within the same

organization and Heather was truly blessed to have Kathy in her life over all of these years.” 

Another great testimony of Big Brothers Big Sisters relationship accomplishing Big things is the match of Big Brother Sam Graves of Greenville and Kerry Mayer of Greenville.  18 year Kerry Mayor of Greenville  is also a recent High School graduate.  

Kerry was originally matched to Sam in 2004 and the two have formed a wonderful and lasting relationship over the past 8 years.  Sam and Kerry have done a wide range of activities and Sam could not have been more proud this past May when Kerry graduated.    Case manager Sheila Lundy reported, “Sam is a true inspiration to all of us.  His dedication to the program and to his match relationship with Kerry has made a lasting impact of the life of Kerry. 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke County is a non-profit United Way member, social service agency. Lisa Brown is Executive Director of the agency.  The program specializes in matching children facing adversity with adult volunteer Big Brothers and Sisters. These adults provide children with positive role modeling, as well as new educational and social activities. If you would like to make the difference in the life of a child but are unable to volunteer at this time, Big Brothers Big Sisters has many other opportunities throughout the year for others to become involved.  Learn more about our agency by logging onto www.bigbrobigsis-shelbydarke.org or calling 937-547-9622 or 937-492-7611.