Big Brothers Big Sisters desperately seeks mentors

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Kansas City is in urgent need of mentors, agency officials say, with a waiting list of more than 450 children and teens who hope to be matched with a role model.

On Saturday, the local agency — the fastest growing of the organization’s 400 affiliates — is sponsoring a Mentorship Meet-Up Open House for those interested in participating in the program. The event, part of National Mentorship Month, runs from 1 to 4 p.m. at 1709 Walnut St.

Big Brothers Big Sisters provides one-on-one mentoring for millions of at-risk children across the country. Children who participate receive better grades, benefit from improved family relationships and self-esteem, and are less likely to use drugs and alcohol, according to the organization. More than 1,200 “Bigs” throughout the Kansas City area take part in the programs.

Last year — the 50th anniversary of the Greater Kansas City program — was a record-breaking year, with the waiting list growing nearly 40 percent, the agency said. Eighty-five percent of those on the list are boys.

“Our need for ‘Big’ volunteers is more important than ever as we urgently aim to match every child or teenager on our waiting list with a mentor,” said Michael Lawrence, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Kansas City.

To learn more about the program or to inquire about becoming a mentor, go to www.bbbskc.org

This story was originally published January 20, 2016 at 4:27 PM with the headline "Big Brothers Big Sisters desperately seeks mentors."