Big Brothers Big Sisters is a community service organization, whereby students are matched up with a "little" from the area. By the end of each school year, there are usually over 100 student volunteers in the organization, which is over 5% of the Union student body. The commitment is for one year, but most "bigs" typically continue with their match until graduation and sometimes beyond. The children in the program range in age from 6-14. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Union College is based out of the Kenney Center, located on the corner of Park Place and Nott Street, across the street from St Anthony's Church, near Richmond Hall.
There are two types of programs offered: site based and community. Site based matches meet every Saturday during the term from 1-3pm. The children get brought to and from campus via school bus and meet with their "Bigs" on campus. Community matches have more freedom in meeting times; they can meet whenever the both individuals are free.
Some "littles" live within walking distance, but most get picked up. If you do not have a car, though, do not be discouraged because you are able to drive the Big Brothers Big Sisters car after taking a defensive driving course, which is offered every term. This course allows students to drive any campus vehicle and also lowers your car insurance. To reserve the car simply call campus security at x6911.
The club usually organizes between 4 and 6 events each term, including one major event for each term. They consist of such activities as apple picking, Halloween extravaganza, Thanksgiving dinner, snow tubing, hockey night, Valentine's day party, pool party, bowl for kid's sake, and trip to Great Escape amusement park. Events are generally geared towards club members, but they are open to the entire campus. Some of the events are open to site based matches, while the rest are for community "bigs" only. Coupons are available for "bigs" for such places as the movies, miniature golf, Friendly's, Bruegers, Boulevard Bowl, and the Rathskellar, while eating in the dining halls is free for "littles." Coupons are available by stopping by the Kenney Center or coming to the table in the campus center during lunchtime Monday-Thursday. Applications are available at the same locations, so stop by.
For more information please contact the Big Brothers Big Sisters office at x8329 or x6228 or email Lindsay at homenicl@union.edu. The number for the Albany office is (518) 862-1250, where your case manager can be reached if not at the Kenney Center. You may also contact Sherise the Program Director at sherise@bbbscr.org or Scott the Union College Case manager at scott@bbbscr.org. If any emergencies arise, check out the emergency number listing.
Updated June 4, 2003
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