Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) Humboldt has experienced a year of change, with new personnel and the continuation of its vital programs. Despite the shifts, the organization has stayed committed to its mission of supporting youth, while introducing exciting new initiatives.
Jillina Beaudoin, the program coordinator for BBBS, shared some of the key highlights of the year. One of the most anticipated returns in 2024 is the high school mentoring program, which pairs grade 11 and 12 students with younger elementary school children. After a smaller cohort of just three mentors in the previous year, Beaudoin noted a significant increase, with seven mentors currently enrolled. This marks a promising expansion for the program.
"The growth in our high school mentoring program is really exciting," Beaudoin said. "We went from three to seven mentors, and that's a huge increase. We’re looking forward to seeing the positive impact these relationships will have on the students."
In addition to the return of the high school mentoring program, BBBS hosted several successful fundraising events. The organization’s signature events, including For Kids’ Sake, Divas for a Day in June, and the Ignite a Little Sparkle campaign running through December, collectively raised just under $40,000. Beaudoin expressed heartfelt gratitude to the community for its continued support.
One of the most exciting developments has been the launch of a new youth-led group program, The Circle. This community-based initiative focuses on the interests of youth participants, allowing them to guide the activities. From cooking and grocery store outings to board games and guest speakers, The Circle provides a diverse range of experiences for local youth, and its popularity is growing.
"We're really proud of The Circle," Beaudoin explained. "It’s been amazing to see the youth take the lead and help shape the program, making it something that truly resonates with them."
As the year comes to a close, BBBS Humboldt is celebrating not only its success but also the growth and involvement of the community. With a strong foundation and a focus on youth empowerment, the organization looks forward to continuing its important work in the year ahead.