POLK COUNTY—Big Brothers Big Sisters of Polk and Rutherford counties has launched enrollment for the upcoming school year’s High School Bigs program. The organization is seeking enthusiastic volunteers and high school students aged 16 and older to serve as mentors for local youth.

Community Bigs are required to complete a 1.5-hour virtual training and commit to spending time with their Little Brothers or Sisters twice a month for one year. High School Bigs will receive training and are expected to spend one hour each week with their Little during school hours, typically during a free period.

“Having a support system is so important in a child’s life,” said BBBS Program Coordinator Jessica Toney. “Our Bigs become part of that support system, providing positive relationships, a safe space, and introducing fun activities, all while guiding a child on a successful path for the future.”

Currently, the program operates in five Polk County schools: Polk County High, Polk Central Elementary, Sunny View Elementary, Saluda Elementary, and Lake Lure Classical Academy.

The program’s goal is to enhance the academic work and social-emotional skills of Little Brothers and Sisters through one-on-one mentoring sessions. Each week, high school Bigs will work with their Littles for an hour, dedicating the first 30 minutes to academics and the remaining half to social and emotional skill development through engaging activities.

The program began with 11 students from Polk County High School and five from Lake Lure Classical Academy. At the end of the school year, all participants received a certificate of completion, and Senior Bigs are awarded honor cords for graduation.

“Children love the help and attention an older young person can give them,” Toney said. “Having a high school student in your corner is just the coolest thing ever. The sooner a positive role model is introduced into a child’s life, the bigger difference it will make.”

High school students interested in becoming Bigs must submit an application and parent permission form. Interested individuals can make a difference in a child’s life by enrolling at bbbs.org or contacting Toney at jessict@bbbswnc.org or 828-429-7626.