Through the Sonnentag Foundation, County Prestress supports charitable organizations and causes that align with the foundation’s four focus areas: Hunger and Homelessness Support, Military Personnel and Veteran Support, Sexual Abuse and Domestic Assault Services, and Youth Mentoring and Skills Building.
This year, with the support of the Sonnentag Foundation, over 3,000 youth have a Big to look up to and help prepare them for a future full of BIG successes.
Big Brothers Big Sisters chapters have stepped up to keep kids connected and supported through this time of social distancing and school closures. More than ever, one-on-one youth mentoring plays a significant role in maintaining balance and providing support as youth navigate their lives moving forward. Many chapters are providing the families they serve with relief services within their local communities, such as internet access to assist youth in completing online schoolwork and adults who work remotely to provide for their families.
With the support of many great community partners, BBBS can achieve its mission of helping children reach their full potential as positive, productive members of society through one-on-one mentoring. Youth with responsible adult mentors are more likely to focus on school, gain confidence, and dream BIG.
The impacts a Big can have on a Little are immeasurable. Big Brother Willie and Little Brother Nigel have been matched for five years. Within that time, Willie helped Nigel succeed in school, build his self-confidence, and explore new interests. Nigel graduated high school earlier this year and is continuing his education by pursuing pharmacology. “Willie has impacted my life by giving me a positive male role model who looks like me, encourages me, and strengthens me daily,” he said.
The Sonnentag Foundation supports Big Brothers Big Sisters chapters where County Prestress has locations. This year, the foundation provided greater opportunity for Big Little pairings in BBBS’ South-Central Wisconsin and Central Indiana chapters.