Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana (BBBSCI), in collaboration with key partners including the Indianapolis Indians, Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS), and Indiana Sports Corp, has launched a community campaign called “Rally for MENtors” aimed at recruiting 300 men to volunteer as mentors over the next three months.
The initiative, officially announced today, emphasizes the pressing need for more mentors, particularly men, within the community. With over 1,000 children, including 800 boys, in Central Indiana eagerly awaiting mentors, BBBSCI, along with its partners, is committed to recruiting 300 men to become mentors, known as Bigs, from April 1, 2024, to June 30, 2024.
The “Rally for MENtors: 300 Men in 3 Months” campaign will kick off on April 1, 2024, with each month highlighting a different partner organization. April will see the Indianapolis Indians encouraging community members to “Step Up to the Plate,” followed by IMS urging them to “Fuel Up Futures” in May, and Indiana Sports Corp promoting “Stretch for the Finish” during the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials in June.
Joel Zawacki, Assistant General Manager of the Indianapolis Indians, expressed the organization’s longstanding commitment to working with BBBSCI, stating, “To know that 800 boys are waiting for a mentor of their own reinforces our drive to do our part in Central Indiana.”
Allison Melangton, Penske Entertainment Senior Vice President, reiterated IMS’s dedication to the cause, saying, “Through our continued partnership, we hope to see that waiting list get down to zero soon.”
Patrick Talty, President of Indiana Sports Corp, highlighted the organization’s enthusiasm for the campaign, stating, “We are looking forward to partnering with BBBSCI to elevate the need and encourage more people to get involved with their community.”
Darcey Palmer-Shultz, CEO of BBBSCI, emphasized the impact of mentoring, stating, “We have too many kids in our community waiting for support, especially too many boys, and as always, we are grateful to have partners who rally together to make a difference.”
Being a mentor, or “Big,” through BBBSCI involves a one-year commitment to be matched with a mentee, or “Little.” Bigs and Littles typically meet 4-6 hours per month, engaging in activities provided by BBBSCI and its partners or finding activities within the community.
To learn more about becoming a Big, interested individuals can visit www.bebigforkids.org/volunteer. Additional information about BBBSCI and the Rally for MENtors: 300 Men in 3 Months campaign can be found at https://www.bebigforkids.org/rally-for-mentors-300-men-in-3-months/.