Vision Statement...To support, inspire and guide every child in need toward a future of unlimited opportunity through mentoring. Mission Statement...Big Buddies of Western Community Action, Inc is a community-based, one-to-one mentoring program matching youth ages 5-17, with positive, caring volunteers. Big Buddies seeks to build relationships that nurture personal growth, develop a sense of community and are rewarding to everyone involved.

Little Buddies:

• Children ages 5- 17, who reside in Lincoln (Big Buddies PROMISE only), Lyon, Redwood, Jackson or Cottonwood County
• Need/want another positive, supportive relationship in their lives
• Have no income/family structure requirements; we serve those who ask!

Big Buddies:

• Are age 18 and over (Juniors and Seniors in High School with parental permission)
• Are individuals, couples, or families
• Are carefully screened through interviews, references and background checks
• Meet weekly with their Little Buddy for at least a year, sharing fun and friendship

Program Information:

• We believe that children want and need positive role models in their lives, and that caring community volunteers can make a real difference in the lives of children in their area.
• We believe in Community Service. Our Buddies participate in projects such as Adopt-a-Highway, and the Wildflower Hill at Marshall Independence Park, and are always looking for projects.
• We look forward to partnering with other groups and organizations in the community to provide a quality experience for our Little Buddies, and also to raise awareness of the importance of adult involvement in children’s lives.

Importance of Mentoring:
Research continues to show that children at risk who have mentors:

• Are more likely to stay in school and do better
• Are less likely to begin using alcohol or drugs
• Develop better self-confidence/self-esteem
• Less likely to need public assistance later
• More likely to be involved in community service

How the Program is Funded:

• Local United Ways
• County Family Collaboratives
• Local fundraising with the annual Bowl-A-Thons and other fundraisers
• Organizational/Corporate donations such as Schwan’s Jeans Day, American Legion (for background checks), Wal-Mart, Kiwanis, Jaycees, Rotary, etc.
• Grants written to private foundations such as the Bremer Foundation and the REMICK Foundation.
• Individual donations from people like you who care about giving children a healthy start in life

What Children Are Saying About Big Buddies:

• "He is my best friend in the world--someone I can talk to about anything. I want to grow up to be like him!"
• "She is my friend and a teacher, too. She reminds me to do nice things for others."
• "It's really, really fun!"
• "She's always there for me when I need her most."

What Volunteers Are Saying About Big Buddies:

• "Even though you are the one giving of your time, it seems that you get much more than you give. It feels very rewarding."
• "My little buddy is such a fun and giving person."
• "It feels so special to see her face light up when I come to see her."
• "It has been a learning experience for both of us. It has helped me grow as a person."

What Parents Are Saying About Big Buddies:

• "...had a lot of good times together. They did a lot of different things. They were well matched."
• "It's good for the kids--gives them someone to talk to and trust."
• "He has found a priceless friend."
• "I've noticed a big change. He feels good about himself."
• "He is a good influence. My son has a better attitude and more confidence."

Making Friends through Western Community Action, Inc. Big Buddies