Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central MO

How to help a struggling or reluctant reader

2012-02-24T13:47:00.003-08:00

We aren’t suggesting you take on the role of a reading tutor, but know that incorporating reading as a fun part of your time together can enhance and support this valuable life skill. When addressing the issue of reading troubles, it’s important to make clear to your Little that you are not judging them. Trouble reading doesn’t mean they aren’t smart. It doesn’t mean they can’t learn. Proceed with kindness and support. Also, just like with movie choices, if you are suggesting books, please make sure that the parent or guardian of the Little is aware of and approves of the selection.

Note: A helpful place to start is to find out why they dislike reading. Do they like reading but don’t like chapter books? Is reading too difficult? Is he or she made fun of when they read out-loud? Does reading take too much time, hurt their head, or is it just plain boring?

Below, find some suggestions for how to get a reluctant or struggling reader reading outside of the classroom. Don’t forget ask your Little for their own suggestions and come up with your own ideas. Remember, the whole point is to make reading fun!

1. Read together
Just because a child can read on their own doesn’t mean they don’t enjoy being read to. Pick a book that perhaps is a little harder than they can read on their own but they are interested in. If your Little is older and sees being read to as childish, pick a book that you both read together and then chat about it later.

2. Show that reading is more than a pastime
While the hope is that all children someday find the joy in sitting down with a good piece of fiction and letting their imagination wander, those who struggle with reading tend to rule out all reading without seeing its many benefits. Do they want to learn a magic trick or how to knit? Maybe you are going on a hike and need to read about the area first to ensure a safe trip. Show your Little that reading is useful when reaching for your goals.

3. Lead by example
When you go to the library together, pick out books for yourself too. You may tell your Little that reading is a valuable skill and something that lasts beyond your school years, but if every time you go to the library you leave empty handed, your words won’t hold much weight.

4. Set an outside goal
For the younger child who is driven by incentives, this is a great tool. Keep a reading log and set goals that are suited to the Little. For example, for every 15 or 30 minutes you read together, they get a sticker or get to color in a square. Let the child decide what prize they want to work towards.

5. Hidden reading
Pick a recipe you want to make together and have your Little read the recipe out loud. Play a new game and have your Little read the instructions. Not only is it great practice but can reinforce the importance of reading in everyday life.

6. Think outside the novel
Who said pictures are just for little kids? For the reluctant teen reader, consider recommending graphic novels. With exceptional artwork and compelling stories, graphic novels are much more than just a comic book and can make reading a novel feel much less daunting.

7. Remember, each child and situation is unique
There isn’t a one size fits all solution for helping a reluctant or struggling reader. If you’d like to make reading a project you and your Little are working on together, don’t be afraid to ask for support and suggestions. Librarians are rich resources. Online, Scholastic and other publishers have great book lists for all ages. Ask the teacher what they think would help or ask the parent if they have noticed anything that could shed light on how to make reading more fun.

Little tip: Go for a walk

2012-02-06T10:03:00.000-08:00

While most children would choose a ballgame or a trip to Chuck E. Cheese's over just taking a walk, don’t underestimate the value of this seemingly simple activity. The month of February isn't exactly synonymous with leisurely walks outdoors, but this winter has been notably mild so if the sun is shining, consider a walk. Of course, a walk just for a walk’s sake is worthwhile; fresh air and exercise can lift anyone’s spirit. But for the mentor/ mentee relationship, walks can be a perfect "together" activity.

You can talk about the day, get to know each other better, work through a problem your Little is having at school, make nature observations, or just be together quietly. Conversation tends to flow once the feet start moving and some reluctant sharers may feel more comfortable talking while looking ahead. Even if the idea of just walking around the park doesn’t appeal to you or your Little, like the ol' zucchini chocolate cake trick, discreetly hide a walk in a “fun” activity. If the weather is nice and you’re headed to an event, try parking a couple of blocks away. Not only will it feel nice to stretch your legs before sitting, but the walk back can be a great time to chat about what you just saw or did.

"We live in a fast-paced society. Walking slows us down."
~Robert Sweetgall

You can help BBBS win $2,500!

2012-01-03T09:39:00.000-08:00

Providence Bank is giving away $2,500 to a charity, and we need your help to win! It’s easy to help and only takes a few seconds.

Just visit Providence Bank’s Facebook page at facebook.com/providencebank, and click the "Like" button to register for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central MO. You can be our community champion!

The more community champions who register for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central MO, the better our chance to win $2,500! And, if you’re the winning community champion, you not only get to pick the winning charity, you’ll also win $100 for yourself!

The winner will be announced on March 30, 2012, so please spread the word.

$2,500 would make a BIG difference, so please become a community champion for Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Thank you!

Big Brothers Big Sisters and Forever 21

2011-12-15T12:17:00.000-08:00

What I hope Santa saw

2011-12-02T11:19:00.000-08:00

written by Ellie Rempel

Last night was the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Missouri Holiday party hosted by the Sunrise Optimists. As a person who spends most of her time in the office, it’s a rare and exciting occasion to for me see the matches together. I spend my time writing about or telling people what an amazing organization Big Brothers Big Sisters is, but to see it in action is something else entirely. Among the chaos of children making ornaments or visiting with Santa, Bigs sneaking wrapped presents out to the car, and matches waiting together in line for a fried chicken dinner, I saw what no statistic or website blurb can ever hope to convey.

The station where I was planted most of the night was one where the Littles were instructed to fill out a sheet that would later be given to the Bigs. The paper asked questions like “What are 3 things you like about your Big?” or “What is your favorite place to go with your Big?” I peeked over the shoulders of children busily writing things like football games, church, the peach farm, and bowling. Under the “Favorite things about my Big” – he teaches me cool stuff, she takes me places, she is honest and trustworthy, that he has a car, and she lets me laugh at her. “I want to thank my Big for” being my Big Sister, being my Big Brother, helping and supporting me, taking me places, or everything! One Little Brother wrote, “I want to thank my Big for… always caring about me and being so nice to me.” When he noticed that his sweet sentiments were being read, he folded it up quickly and shoved it in his pocket before running off to find his Big Brother.

I shifted focus to one Big Sister helping her Little by prompting the questions. “I can’t think of an exciting thing.” The Big said, “Well, what is one thing we’ve done together that you’d really like to do again?” Then when the Big left to go wrap a present, the Little called for her biological little sister (who was also at the party) to come sit by her. I watched as she prompted her own little sister exactly as her Big had. “I can’t think of an exciting thing,” the little one said. “Well, what is one thing you’ve done with your Big Sister that was so much fun you really want to do it again?” She was a mirror image of what her Big had been. She was patient and laughed when her sister said something silly. She helped spell words that minutes before had been spelled for her. I told her she was a very good big sister. “Yeah, but not as good as mine.”

I saw Littles finish the sentences of their Bigs. I saw true trust and friendship and understanding between adults and children who on the surface couldn't be more different.

While many of the children were reserved, one Little barely took a breath between words. While waiting for her Big Sister to finish wrapping a present in the “Bigs Only” room, I heard about the history of her siblings names, about her dog “who is so sweet, she wouldn’t hurt a fly. Well, she might eat a fly and then that would hurt but only by accident.” When I asked her about her Big Sister- “She’s only the best person in the whole world. We’re two peas in a pod- that’s what she says but I don’t really like peas so I say we’re twins. That’s funny because we don’t look alike at all and she’s like 40 and I’m only 9! ”

Then she asked me why we have this program for kids. I answered her with question, “How do you feel when you are going places with your Big or doing activities like this?”
She thought a minute. “Well… I’m happy. Like really , really happy.”
“There you go,” I said. “That’s why.”

10 Big ideas for the holidays

2011-11-29T11:26:00.000-08:00

To get in the holiday spirit with your Little, here are 10 ideas to help make this coming December one to remember…

1. Talk about holiday traditions. This is a great place to start. Remember, not everyone celebrates the same holidays, and even those who do may not celebrate in quite the same way. Be sensitive to differences and listen, but also enjoy this opportunity to share some of your favorite traditions with your Little and perhaps make some new ones together!

2. Make holiday cards for family members and friends. Make a few extras and send them to a local nursing home.

3. Keep cozy with a homemade scarf. Do you know how to knit or crochet? If your Little is interested, try teaching them this cozy winter pastime. If you would like to make something with your Little and need yarn, please contact Ellie at 573-874-3677 ext 224

4. Get baking. Baking holiday breads, cakes, or cookies is even more fun with your Little and learning to cook is an important skill. Sneak in some reading practice by asking them to read the recipe out loud.

5. Volunteer together. The holiday season abounds with opportunities to give back. Show your Little they can make a difference in their community (just like you!).

6. Learn a new tradition. Pick a religion, country, or culture and take some time learn how they celebrate the holidays. Go to the library to find a book or look it up together online. Read a traditional story from that country or pick a recipe to try. If you are stumped, try http://www.portharbor.com/santa/xsatrad.php for some ideas of where to start.

7. Rent a classic movie. Enjoy an old favorite like Charlie Brown, the Grinch, Rudolph, or Frosty. This will be as much for you as it is for your Little.

8. Bundle up and take a winter walk. Just because it’s chilly doesn’t mean you’re stuck inside. Take a walk and count lights or wreaths or walk down a street where you know there are special displays in the windows. If it's a nice day, walk a trail you've walked in the spring and ask your Little to notice the differences. End your outdoor adventure with some hot cocoa or tea.

9. Check the local paper and events calendar. The holidays are the perfect time to take advantage of community offerings and to expose your Little to new things.

10. Take a breath and sit down. The holidays fly by so fast and since we don't want to miss a single minute, we barely have time to finish swallowing that sugar cookie before running out the door in search of more holiday cheer. For children, the holidays can be an exciting but overwhelming time. Depending on the situation at home, your Little may be feeling more than just merriment this time of year so make sure to leave time just to sit and process. Did you decorate a Christmas tree together? Sit down and admire your work. Did you make cookies? Sit down and enjoy them. Some of the best memories are the simple moments and the ones you'll remember for the rest of the year.

Thank you volunteers

2011-11-09T12:36:00.000-08:00

A thank you speech for volunteers

Written DJ Cronin

You make a difference in the dash.

Life is short. In the scheme of things this oft quoted saying must be true. Our planet has been here for millions of years - our universe billions.

On our headstones will be the etching of when we were born and the date when we died. For example 1960 - 2050.

What matters to me are not the two years mentioned. It is the dash. That little dash. That's our life. That represents to me the short time we have, here, to make a difference, or not.

And making a difference means so many different things to so many people.

But for you, the volunteer, what you do during that dash is most significant.

You can give me money for my cause. Sure. But I may pay that back to you. Say you give a dollar a month. It is appreciated without doubt. It is your dollar. However you may pick it up elsewhere. Something extra you do. Some other way of earning that buck. But how do we give back time?

As a volunteer you give time. Time. The most precious resource in our lives.

Look at the dash. How many hours are in there? It's not billions. It's not infinite. Money can be printed. Time cannot.

Once you give an hour of your time it is lost forever. That hour you just gave volunteering will never be replicated.

Your time volunteering must be valued but we can never put a value on that time. How can you value something that is priceless?

As a volunteer you bring much to this organization. Skills, advice, experience, friendship, vision, leadership, inspiration etc. That you bring. But time you give. In our time poor world you bear the gift of time. You choose to donate the most precious commodity in the known universe.

We may count your time in numbers. We may attempt to count your time in cash value. Though such methods have their reasons we will all be poorer if we don't realize that the giving of your time is simply and utterly magnificent.

So today, we take a little time out to thank you for the amazing "time in" that you give.

Truly, thanks for your time!

This speech was found at http://www.energizeinc.com/reflect/poem.html

Partnering for Educational Success

2011-11-01T07:42:00.000-07:00

Little tip: have a healthy Halloween

2011-10-26T07:58:00.000-07:00

If you remember awhile back, we started talking about how encouraging a healthy lifestyle and smart food choices can easily be incorporated as part of the mentor/ mentee relationship.

Halloween, the official candy holiday, is right around the corner, so why not take this opportunity get creative and healthy with your Little? Sweets can be a fun treat but man does not live by Snickers bars alone. Most kids will be getting plenty of candy other places but as a mentor you have the chance to reinforce healthy habits all year long. Plus, what’s better craft you can eat? Visit http://familyfun.go.com/halloween/best-halloween-recipes-786790/ and http://startcooking.com/blog/275/9-Healthy-Halloween-Treats to check out some great ideas for deliciously spooky snacks that are fun to make together and good for you too!

Thanks for being part of Minute to Win It BIG!

2011-10-25T12:51:00.000-07:00

A big thank you goes out to everyone who participated in the first year of Minute to Win It BIG the past two Thursdays at Whiskey Wild Saloon. What a fun event!!

Congrats to Bob's Babes for Bigs for taking First Place in the Minute to Win It BIG Finale! Faster Than You came in 2nd and Docs for Bigs gave a great showing for 3rd! Congrats also goes out to the winner of the Sponsor Showdown - Boone County National Bank! Thanks to Rotary South for raising the most money!

Follow the link below to check a great article about the two events-

http://www.columbiamissourian.com/stories/2011/10/20/blue-ridge-oakland-players-compete-games-big-brothers-big-sisters-fundraiser/

Thank you again for making it a such a successful and exciting event. Hope to see everyone next year!

Minute to Win It BIG top 3 prizes

2011-10-04T08:28:00.000-07:00

So you're probably wondering what "great prizes" you'll win if you go all the way to the top at Minute to Win It BIG.

Each team has their own idea of the perfect prize so we’ll let you choose. First place will select their prize from the 3 great prize packages listed below. Second place will have a choice from the remaining two and so on.

Prizes packages for the 3 top teams:

· 6 Whiskey Wild Concert Tickets and

Shakespearience for 6 at Shakespeare’s Pizza

· Les Bourgeois VIP Wine Tasting and Tour for 6 and

6 tickets to Inside Columbia’s Grand Tasting at the

Wine and Food Festival

· Déjà Vu Comedy Club party for 16 tickets and

a $100 Gift Card to Geisha Sushi Bar

A BIG thanks go out to Whiskey Wild Saloon, Shakespeare’s Pizza, Les Bourgeois, Inside Columbia, Déjà Vu Comedy Club, and Melody Parry for donating to Big Brothers Big Sisters!

Games of the Day for Sept. 22nd

2011-09-22T13:29:00.000-07:00

Minute to Win it BIG is right around the corner! Here are just a few of the fun challenges you can look forward to...

Games of the Day for Sept. 21st

2011-09-21T11:03:00.000-07:00

Remember, Minute to Win It BIG games are as much fun to watch as they are to play. Take a look at today's games to get a sneak peak of what's to come. If this seems like something you'd like to be part of or attend, please look around the blog at older posts or visit http://www.bigsofcentralmo.org to learn more!

Games of the Day for Sept. 20th

2011-09-20T07:53:00.000-07:00

These games and more will be featured at our upcoming event, Minute to Win It BIG. Check back tomorrow for more featured games! Try these at home or register a team and compete on October 13^th at Whiskey Wild Saloon. Visit our website www.bigsofcentralmo.org to find out how!

Minute to Win It BIG Dates and Details

2011-09-14T07:40:00.000-07:00

Event : Minute to Win It BIG Boot Camp

Date : Friday, September 27^th

Time : 7:00 p.m.

Location : Paxton Keeley Elementary School

Cost : Free to teams
Details : Boot Camp is only open to registered teams and sponsor teams and is not required. Here you will find all the game supplies you need to practice and get and edge up on the competition.

Event : Minute to Win It BIG Semi-finals

Date : Thursday, October 13^th

Time : Doors open at 5:00 p.m. The first round of pool play begins at 5:45 and the competition will run approximately until 9:00.
Location : Whiskey Wild Saloon

Cost : $10 admission gets you a drink, a slice of Shakespeare’s pizza, and a great time!

Details : The Minute to Win It BIG Semi-final event is where 24 teams will go head to head to determine the top 6 teams who will move onto the Finale.

Event : Minute to Win It BIG Finale

Date : Thursday, October 20^th

Time : Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Event is from 6:00- 8:00.

Location : Whiskey Wild Saloon

Cost : $20 admission gets you a drink, dinner, and an event that’s bigger and better than you can imagine!

Details : At the Minute to Win It BIG Finale the victorious 6 six teams from the Semi-finals will face even harder challenges to determine the Minute to Win It BIG champion. The evening will also feature a Sponsor Showdown and some BIG surprises!

Please contact Ellie at ellie@bigsofcentralmo.org or 573-874-3677 ext. 224 with any questions.

Minute to Win It BIG- Calling all teams!

2011-09-09T08:22:00.000-07:00

If you've seen the hit show Minute to Win It on NBC, then you know the drill- common household items, deceptively simple challenges, and one minute to win it. But did you know that Minute to Win It is getting a BIG makeover? That's right! Minute to Win It BIG is bigger and better when it comes to having fun and raising money for at risk kids in Mid-Missouri and it's coming this October 13th and 20th to Whiskey Wild Saloon in Columbia, MO.

If you had a former team from Bowl For Kids' Sake, here's your chance to get the ol' team back together for an exciting head to head competition. If you've never participated with Big Brothers Big Sisters before, there's no better way to begin. Please tell everyone you know that teams are forming now! Minute to Win It BIG is a brand new fundraiser and we need you to help us start it off right.

For your first challenge, register a team of 2-3 individuals (18 years or older) and raise a minimum of $300. Failure to complete this challenge before October 7th will result in elimination. Hurry! Slots are limited to 24 teams, so only the first 24 teams to turn in their $300 donation will compete in the Minute to Win It BIG Semi-Finals on October 13th at Whiskey Wild Saloon. Beat the clock and your competitors to advance to the Grand Finale on October 20th.

With the team deadline just one month away, time is of the essence so register now! Please visit the registration page at http://minutetowinitbig.kintera.org/2011

Remember, even if you aren't the apple stacking, pencil bouncing type, Minute to Win It BIG also needs spectators! Who else is going to help countdown the "3, 2,1!" and cheer on teams? Tickets are $10 to the Semi-finals and $20 to the Finale. Plan ahead and buy a two event ticket for $25. Please go to our homepage to purchase tickets and to learn everything you need to know about Minute to Win it BIG!

Please contact Ellie at ellie@bigsofcentralmo.org or 573-874-3677 ext. 224 with any questions.

Important information for prospective Minute to Win It BIG teams

2011-09-02T14:40:00.000-07:00

If you are considering a TEAM for Minute to Win It BIG …

Your very first stop should be the registration page at http://minutetowinitbig.kintera.org/2011

Here you will find all sorts of useful and important details about how registration is being handled for this event.

If you have visited the registration page and still have questions, look below to see if we can answer them. However, if not, please don’t hesitate to contact Ellie at ellie@bigsofcentralmo.org or 573-874-3677 ext. 224.

Some questions you might be asking…

Why only 24 teams?

We wish we could let every team who wants to participate do so, but this year 24 teams is most we can accept in order to promise that each team competing has a fair, fun Minute to Win It BIG experience.

If I register my team, why am I not guaranteed a spot in the Semi-Finals?

Because spots are limited, we didn’t feel it was fair to guarantee a spot to a team before they have raised the minimum $300 donation required to compete in the Semi-Finals.

What happens if I’ve already started raising money and then 24 spots are filled?

The 24 spots will go to the first 24 teams to raise the $300. This isn’t meant to be unfair but get your competitive juices flowing and encourage you to secure your donation quickly. Once 24 teams have reached the $300 mark, we will immediately close the registration process so no new teams register. Then your team will be contacted so you and your teammates have the choice if you would like to continue raising money. Remember, even if you don’t make the Semi-Finals, you will still be rewarded with prizes such as t-shirts and event tickets based on the amount of money individual teammates raised for BBBS.

So do you prefer teams of 2 players or 3 players?

This is whatever works best for your team. Each team will be guaranteed a minimum of 6 games. A team of two will certainly play a lot of games. This may or may not appeal to you. The benefit of a 3 player team is you have insurance if a teammate cannot make the event and it spreads out fundraising responsibility. A team of 3 can use all 3 players equally or have 2 primary players and an alternate. There are no restrictions to how many times a player competes or doesn’t compete. That’s up to the team.

How will I know what games to practice?

A selected games list with rules will be posted on our website and blog. These games will also be available to all teams to practice on September 27^th at Paxton Keeley Elementary at 7:00. From that selected games list, games will be drawn at random the night of the event. You will not know beforehand what games you will compete in but you shouldn’t encounter a game you’ve never heard of (if you’ve done your homework). Once a game is drawn, teams will chose which teammate is best suited to compete in that challenge.

How will teams be eliminated?

Pool Play

- Each team is guaranteed at least 6 one minute challenges

- Pools consist of 4 teams

- The top team from each pool will advance to the Finale

- Best 2 out of 3

o Each team playing will have one minute to complete the challenge

o If one team complete the challenge in the minute and the other does not, the first team will win the game

o If both teams complete the game in one minute, whoever completes the game first will win the game

o If both teams fail to complete the game in a minute, it counts as a loss for both teams

o There will be sudden death tie breakers if need be

Thank you for your interest in our event! We hope to hear from you soon.

Again, please feel free to contact Ellie with any questions or concerns.

Only two weeks until Countdown to Kickoff!

2011-08-09T09:52:00.000-07:00

We truly hope you'll join us on August 23^rd at 5:00 p.m. for the 11th Annual Countdown to Kickoff: An Evening with Coach Gary Pinkel, and be part of a memorable evening dedicated to celebrating and supporting mentoring in Mid-Missouri. With only two weeks to go, please buy your tickets soon!

In addition to taking in the field view from the Bob LeMone Tiger Lounge at Faurot Field, you'll enjoy catering by Hoss's Market, wine from Les Bourgeois, beer from N.H. Scheppers, meet Head Coach Gary Pinkel, and have the chance to bid on some fabulous items in both the live and silent auction.

Please visit our improved website to see the 2011 sponsors, buy tickets, and watch a slide show featuring several auction items. Come prepared to bid on exciting items such as:

A custom playhouse donated by TrueSon Exteriors, Manor Roofing and Devon Casady
A baseball signed by Whitey Herzog, Lou Brock, Red Schoendienst, and Bob Gibson
A sushi class for 8 with Jina Yoo
An evening with the Mizzou Tigers
And much, much more!

Tickets are $40 per person. Advance registration is required so please visit www.bbbs.org/centralmo to purchase your tickets today!

Feel free to contact Ellie Rempel at ellie@bigsofcentralmo.org or at (573) 874-3677 ext. 224 with any questions. Thank you for your support!

"Unrealized Potential"

2011-08-09T08:36:00.000-07:00

Little tip of the week: LISTEN

2011-08-03T08:28:00.000-07:00

Our "Little" tip of the day is to never underestimate the power of listening.

Does it seem sometimes like you aren't getting anywhere with all your words of advice, but you feel like it's a mentor's job to say something? Or maybe sometimes you can't think of right thing to say. Remember, that's okay! As a mentor, one of the greatest gift you can give your Little is a listening ear. It's a rare an valuable experience for many children to feel like what they say is truly being heard, so next time your Little starts sharing, try waiting a moment or two longer before speaking. See what happens when you just listen...

"To be listened to is, generally speaking, a nearly unique experience for most people... Man clamors for the freedom to express himself and for knowing that he counts. " - Robert C. Murphy

"Listening is such a simple act. It requires us to be present, and that takes practice, but we don't have to do anything else. We don't have to advise, or coach, or sound wise. We just have to be willing to sit there and listen." - Margaret J. Wheatley

"To say that a person feels listened to means a lot more than just their ideas get heard. It's a sign of respect. It makes people feel valued." - Deborah Tannen

"One friend, one person who is truly understanding, who takes the trouble to listen to us as we consider a problem, can change our whole outlook on the world." - Dr. E. H. Mayo

Mudball this Saturday!

2011-07-15T10:46:00.000-07:00

Countdown to Kickoff on August 23rd

2011-07-06T11:02:00.000-07:00

It is almost time to celebrate with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Missouri!
Big Brothers Big Sisters and Coach Gary Pinkel will kick off the 2011 Tiger Football season at Faurot Field on August 23rd at the 11th annual Countdown to Kickoff: An Evening with Coach Gary Pinkel. We invite you to be there, too!

The event begins at 5:00PM with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, and features a live and silent auction benefiting the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Missouri. With items ranging from gift certificates for your favorite Columbia restaurants, weekend escapes, unique auction items from the MU football program and athletics, jewelry from L.C. Betz Jewelers, and art from Terry Hoyt, there are items certain to excite every bidder. And if that's not enough, the auction will have some BIG surprises you won't want to miss!

Tickets are $40 per person. Advance registration is required so please visit www.bbbs.org/centralmo to purchase your ticket today.

Feel free to contact Ellie Rempel at ellie@bigsofcentralmo.org or at (573) 874-3677 ext. 224 with any questions. Thank you for your support!

Help win up to $7,500 for BBBS!

2011-06-16T11:47:00.000-07:00

Dear friends of BBBS,

Get ready because starting Monday, June 20th we need your help! We have a chance to win BIG MONEY for Big Brothers Big Sisters but we can't do it without you!

Every town in the country with a McAlister's Deli is competing for the title of Tea Town USA and up to $7,500 for a nonprofit chosen by that town's restaurant. Our local McAlister's has chosen Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Missouri to be the beneficiary should our town win! All we have to do is earn the most points for our town by voting each day online, "checking in" on Facebook each time we go to McAlister's and by participating in the weekly challenges. The competition starts Monday, June 20th and will run until the end of July. For more information, you can go to www.teatownusa.com or http://apps.facebook.com/teatownusa/.

Let's work together to make Columbia, MO "Tea Town" and help Big Brothers Big Sisters in a BIG way. Remember you can vote daily and don’t forget to ask your friends and family to vote, too. Also, feel free to share this post, tweet about it, and talk about it in the grocery store. Tell everyone!

Whatever you do, we appreciate your support! And remember, the more we get the word out, the more votes our town gets and the closer we are to receiving $7,500!

Register NOW for Mudball!

2011-06-14T13:11:00.000-07:00

Mudball is back and its time to get dirty! Saturday, July 16th Mudball returns at Bradford Farms Research & Extension Center located at 4968 Rangeline Rd. (Approximately 6 miles east of the Grindstone & U.S. 63 interchange) This year, due to the limitations of one mud court space, this year's tournament will be a double elimination battle for all the mud. This also limits the number of teams that may register so get your teams together now! Bradford Farms has a great setup for us and should make for a great day with plenty of space to lounge during teams downtime. So bring out your bags, or washers. Or spend your time watching the muddy action from the bleachers!

You can download registration forms from our website www.bigsofcentralmo.org you will also find one attached to this email. Registrations will not be taken through the website this year but you may: 1)call in payment with credit and fax registration form 2) mail registraion with check 3)call in payment with credit and players names, shirts sizes, etc.

AmeriCorps 2011 Positions

2011-06-14T12:58:00.000-07:00

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central MO has received word that we are funded for an AmeriCorps 2011-2012 program. If you would like to know more about AmeriCorps, visit http://www.americorps.gov/. and pay attention to AmeriCorps State and National (http://www.americorps.gov/for_individuals/choose/state_national.asp). Please note that this is an opportunity for service as an AmeriCorps member to serve with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Missouri for one year.

There will be four 1700 hour positions (August – August). There is a living allowance of $11,800 for a year, health insurance, and an education award of $5,350 after the end of one year of service that can be used to pay off school loans or to pay for future education. These positions will include recruiting and coordinating mentors, planning Big/Little match activities plus other events, mentoring, and graphics work. A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree is required for these positions.

The full time positions will require daytime, night and weekend availability. If interested in a full time AmeriCorps position, please email kerrie.bloss@bigsofcentralmo.org with your resume and a short description of your experience working with volunteers by Friday July 1st, 2011.

There will be four 450 hour quarter-time positions for college students (over a 9 month period taking into consideration your college breaks). These positions will serve approximately 15 hours a week. There is a living allowance of $2,950 plus an Education Award of approximately $1,337 at the end of the 450 hours of service that can be used to towards school loans or to pay for future education. These students will recruit on high school and college campuses and in the community, mentor students in Columbia Public Schools in our school based program, as well as various office hours and program assistance.

If you are interested in a quarter time AmeriCorps position, please email kerrie.bloss@bigsofcentralmo.org with your resume, a copy of your fall college schedule, experience with children and experience in public speaking by Friday July 1st, 2011. Please also include information about your connections to any of the target recruitment areas listed below. If you are currently a Big, please list your Match Support Specialist.

Target areas for recruitment on high school and local college campuses are:
• Faith based organizations
• Sororities and Fraternities
• Students interested in outdoor activities
• High School students
• Students in general

Quarter-time positions will require daytime hours to mentor children in the school and for in-office hours, as well as some evening and weekend availability.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask Kerrie Bloss at kerrie@bigsofcentralmo.org . Thanks for your interest!

Coming October 13th and 20th - Minute to Win it BIG!

2011-06-10T09:43:00.000-07:00

Exciting news! We’re happy to announce that October 13th and 20th are the official dates for Minute to Win it BIG! so mark your calendars today! As the event nears, we’ll be posting lots of information from game lists to playing tips to opportunities to volunteer so stay tuned!

Semifinals: Thursday, Oct. 13
Finals: Thursday, Oct. 20
Where: Whiskey Wild Salon

Teams of 2 and up to 3 will compete in deceptively simply games using household items to Win it BIG for Big Brothers Big Sisters! Information on how to register a team or buy tickets to attend is coming soon.

Meanwhile (we know you’re so excited you can hardly wait!) check out this NBC video to familiarize yourself with the show our event is based on. Already a fan? Then head to the NBC website for game blue prints and start practicing!

Hot weather treats: ice cream alternatives

2011-06-07T08:49:00.000-07:00

With the weather warming up, kids usually have one thing on their mind…. ICE CREAM! But don’t forget that instead of heading to the ice cream parlor, you and your Little can make some cool and cost effective creations at home.

While ice cream is undoubtedly delicious, summer is a great time to explore and maybe introduce your Little to refreshing alternatives like sherbets and sorbets. This Simple Summer Lime Punch takes minutes to make and can easily be modified to meet taste preferences. Prefer orange or raspberry sherbet? Lemonade instead of limeade? Wanna add some strawberries? Or think orange sherbet, orange/pineapple juice, and lemon lime soda sounds better? Not a problem.

Better yet… does your Little have their own ideas of what might taste good? Feel free to get creative and make your own Big/Little creation! Don’t worry if it doesn’t taste perfect. Make it a goal to find the perfect the combination by the end of the summer.

Simple Summer Lime Punch

Lime sherbet

Limeade (made from concentrate works great)

Lemon/lime soda or seltzer water if you prefer less sweet

Take two tall glasses and put a single scoop of sherbet in each. Fill the glass half way with limeade and then fill the rest with lemon/lime soda or seltzer water. Add bendy straws and enjoy!

"Mentoring Journey" by Robin Cox

2011-06-03T13:41:00.000-07:00

Today's post was found at http://www.yess.co.nz/MentoringJourneyPoem.html. The link provides more background information about Robin Cox's writing and the site, http://www.yess.co.nz/index.html has some interesting information for mentors. But whether you mentor or just support mentoring, this beautiful poem touches on what a challenging but important journey mentoring can be. Thank you, mentors everywhere for everything you do.

Mentoring Journeyby Robin Cox
Confused, trying to unravel, understand
Life's intricate, pictureless puzzle
Through tinted, frustrated, alert eyes.
Outwardly disinterested, sharp listener.
Moody, rainbow emotions, whaddaya know?
Verbal protests mask insecure, fragile,
Awakening seeds of greatness.
Bravado? Adolescence!
Persevere. Walk in their shoes.
Occasional blistering painful experiences
Threaten to derail envisioned images,
Golden, sun-filled days; dreamy sweat-stained
Mountain peaks triumphantly conquered.
A stumble - curses, swears, mutters -
Potentially self-destructing, downward
Spiral rears a tortured head.
Respectfully reach out, take a hand; Smiling, wise eyes, whisper softly, sincerely,
"I believe in you!"
The nurturing journey continues.

Have you see the "Start Something" video? Please, pass it along!

2011-05-20T07:13:00.000-07:00

Cooking With Kids: Healthy Choices

2011-05-18T07:53:00.000-07:00

Hey Bigs! Did you know that the Harvard School of Public Health has developed a free resource to help mentors make healthy eating and physical activity natural parts of the mentor-mentee relationship? It’s called Eat Well, Stay Active, Have Fun: A Guide for Mentors and it's full of great tips ideas to incorporate healthy choices into your time together. Please contact your match support specialist to learn more.

A healthy tip from BBBS of Central MO:

Cooking with kids is a great teaching tool. It gives invaluable time to show how fun and easy cooking healthy food (with an adult’s help) can be. Looking for something to do? Try our kid-friendly recipe of the week...

My Own Pizza!

Making your own pizza gives a great sense of accomplishment and lets picky eaters get just what they want. Plus, the combination of healthy, inexpensive ingredients makes it a great alternative to hitting a pizza joint downtown. There are many versions of do-it-yourself pizza but here’s a kid tested favorite…

Dough Ingredients:

(Makes 4 mini pizzas)

1 & 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup water

2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions:

Place 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a bowl. Make a well in the center and add 1/2 cup water and 2 tablespoons olive oil.

Combine by gradually incorporating the flour into the olive oil and water, adding a little extra water if necessary.

Kids love this part! Transfer the dough to a floured board and knead until smooth and elastic, 5-7 minutes. Break dough into four balls and then roll out. If you don't have a rolling pin, a large firm, plastic cup works great.

For the actual pizza making, have shredded cheese, a jar of sauce, and other favorite toppings available. Chopped up veggies arranged in shapes can make the pizza experience that much more fun.

Heat oven to 425 and cook for approx 15 min. Check for melted cheese and dough to brown. Remove from oven and let cool on rack. Enjoy!

Saturday, May 21 Cattlemen's BBQ! Proceeds support BBBS!

2011-05-11T11:23:00.000-07:00

Don't miss the Boone County Cattlemen’s BBQ Contest from 10:00 am- 2:00 pm, May 21st at Patricia’s Foods benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters. There will be a Big/Little Build a Burger Contest at 11:30am with judging at 12pm. Everyone's invited so bring your friends and family and come out to support BBBS! See you there!

Coming this October- Minute to Win it BIG!

2011-05-02T12:04:00.000-07:00

You've watched the games on TV. Now test your own skills to beat clock and other teams in our exciting new fundraiser, “Minute to Win it BIG!”

Just like the popular show, Minute to Win it, our event will feature deceptively simple challenges that use every day, household items. From balancing 6 dice on Popsicle stick held in between your teeth to getting a cookie from your forehead to your mouth without using your hands, every challenge must be completed in 60 seconds or less. Failure to complete this task in 60 seconds may result in elimination... or just a whole lot of fun to raise money and awareness for BBBS!

We are now seeking sponsors, teams , and volunteers so please contact Ellie Rempel at 573.874.3677 ext. 224, ellie@bigsofcentralmo.org or Lisa Eimers at 573.874.3677 ext. 209, lisa@bigsofcentralmo.org to find out how you can make a BIG difference.

Look for more information soon to follow!

An easy way to earn for BBBS

2011-04-27T08:52:00.000-07:00

Do you shop at Schnucks in Columbia? Do you ever shop online? Did you know that you could be earning money for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Missouri every time you do?

If you haven't already, please stop by Schnucks and ask the cashier for an eScrip Community Card. Schnucks contributes a percentage of your purchase to the group of your choice. You can add up to three so please make BBBS one of them! Go to www.schnucks.com for program information. It’s free for you and easy to join. Plus, each time you use your card you are making a difference!

Additionally, once you sign up for eScrip, you can shop through the online mall. Buying plane tickets, clothes, toys… everything you buy can help BBBS. Click on eScrip logo on this page to learn more!

Moberly's Third Annual Bowl for Kids' Sake

2011-04-19T13:40:00.000-07:00

Teams are now forming for Moberly's Third Annual Bowl for Kids' Sake!

Help make a difference in the life of a Moberly Area child. Put together a team of five and work with friends, family and co-workers to collect $300. Then join us May 13th from 10-12 PM or May 15th from 1-3 PM at Moberly Community Lanes for a session of bowling, food, and prizes!

The more you raise, the more prizes you are eligible for. Grand prizes from Les Bourgeois Vineyard and Isle of Capri Casino Hotel! Bowling slots and a variety of sponsorship opportunities are still available!

Visit our home page for more information or contact Francine Nichols at francine.nichols@bigsofcentralmo.org or call 660-676-9320!

BBBS Night at Andy's

2011-04-19T13:06:00.000-07:00

What could possibly be better than Andy's Custard? Eating Andy's AND raising money for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Missouri!! On May 12th from 4:00 -9:00, don't forget to visit Andy's Custard in Columbia, MO to support Big Brothers Big Sisters and enjoy a delicious treat!