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POLK COUNTY–Local nonprofit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Polk County recently announced its new program coordinator, Jessica Spivey-Toney of Sunny View. 

As program coordinator, Spivey-Toney will create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that, in keeping with BBBS’s mission, “ignite the power and promise of local children.”

 

Spivey-Toney, a lifelong resident of Sunny View, lives with her 15-year-old son, Gideon, and husband, Mike Toney, Jr. A lover of the outdoors year-round, she enjoys spending time with family and her many pets. You can find her on the sidelines cheering and taking photos when her son is playing soccer. 

 

Spivey-Toney graduated from Polk County Schools at the age of 16 and began a 30-year career in the healthcare field serving the physically and mentally challenged population. She holds an Associate Degree in Medical Science, a Certification in Medication Administration, and a Certification in Medical Office Management, including medical billing and coding. 

 

As Sunny View Community Outreach Coordinator, a position she’s held for the past 12 years, Spivey-Toney plans, organizes and hosts free events for families and children and heads all outreach programs the clubhouse has. She also is the mental health and substance abuse advocate at Lake Lure Classical Academy, assisting in planning their awareness weeks and providing training resources.  

 

“I have always had a natural instinct to care for people,” she said. “I feel honored being able to do that in my own county. Inspiring youth ensures the future. Having a role in the inspiration of youth in our area by connecting them with Big Brothers Big Sisters is exciting and rewarding.”

 

January is also National Mentor Month, and Big Brothers and Big Sisters are always seeking volunteers. They match volunteers (or “Bigs”) with a young person (or “Littles”) in the area to mentor. A Big typically spends at least four hours with their Little every month, doing activities they both enjoy. Anyone who is a high school junior or older can apply.

Becoming a Big is not a complicated process. You can go to the website https://www.bbbswnc.org/ and fill out an application, and a program staff member will contact you for an interview.