MYCP - Monroe Youth Challenge Program

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Key West High Big Brothers, Big Sisters Escort Littles on End-of-Year Field Trip

KEY WEST (465 words) – Boondocks on Rockland Key was the fun location that a group of 73 teenagers and elementary students spent time building relationships over lunch and mini golf. The teams have been paired together for months now in partnership between Monroe Youth Challenge Program (MYCP) and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Monroe County. This school year MYCP Lower Keys Prevention Coordinator Mindy Vinson recruited 43 mentors also known as “Bigs” from Key West High School students who went to Glynn Archer once a week and work with “Littles” -- a little sister or brother. Vinson said, “These Key West High School students have been such a positive change in the kids’ lives at Glynn Archer and in their community.”

Photo Credit: MYCP
Key West High School Big Brothers, Big Sisters with their Littles from Glynn Archer recently celebrated their year together with a field trip and lunch at Boondocks thanks to Historic Tours of America and Key West Firefighters Local Union 1424. Monroe Youth Challenge Program’s Mindy Vinson, who coordinates the program, sits front, left.

This April 26 field trip to Boondocks was a celebration of the year together and a commitment for Bigs and Littles to meet again next year. The field trip was made possible by the generosity of Historic Tours of America and Key West Firefighters Local Union 1424. In addition, the Bigs raised money through shamrock candy gram sales in March to buy each of their Littles a parting gift for the summer.

As part of the school-based mentoring program, Bigs and Littles met for one-to-one mentoring in the classroom, school library, school computer room, neighborhood community center, or other set location. Bigs and Littles typically met once a week to read together, play sports or computer games, or talk about life and personal issues – just as friends do.

According to Big Brothers Big Sisters, school-based mentoring is not a tutoring program. However, research shows of children matched with a Big in school: 58% improve their school performance;

65% show higher levels of self-confidence; and 55% have a better attitude toward school.

Vinson said, “Our Bigs and Littles have fun together — and create memories that last a lifetime. Big Brothers Big Sisters call it ‘Little moments … Big magic.’” Other research on this volunteer program points to the powerful, positive, lasting impact Bigs have on children’s lives. Littles are: 52% less likely to skip school; 46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs; and more likely to get along with their families and peers.

“This year’s program was such a success because of the Bigs’ enthusiasm and dedication. I look forward to seeing them do it again next year,” said Vinson.

For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters, contact: BBBS of Monroe County, Inc., 1400 United Street, Suite 111, Key West, FL 33040; bbbs1@bellsouth.net; (305) 294-9891.

Monroe Youth Challenge Program is a project of the Monroe County Education Foundation to foster acceptance, respect, and success in the youth of Monroe County. For more information about this project or any other MYCP-sponsored program call MYCP Lower Keys Prevention Coordinator Mindy Vinson at (305) 293-1549 ext. 422 or visit www.monroe.k12.fl.us/mycp.