February 2024
Hello Friend!
When I was a senior in college, two of my roommates were computer majors. I assured myself that I would never need to work on a computer since I was going into human services. Brilliant insight, I know. In my defense, it was 1985. Purple Rain, anyone? Currently, I have no less than 12 platforms for an electronic message and at least nine ways to have a video call. That is generations away from the party-line telephone that we had back on the farm. It was high-tech at the time because the cord was so long that we could weave our way down the basement steps in an attempt for some privacy.
Today’s youth are navigating a world of information in a way that I could never have imagined. Given I didn’t think I would ever use a computer, that is easy to deduce. Our youth are challenged with having so much access - and trying to figure out how to manage that access. Despite all of the access, they are still in high need of mentorship. In today’s digital age, our mission takes on a new dimension. We recognize the importance of bridging the gap between technology and mentorship. Our youth need guidance to navigate the online world safely, but also harness the power of technology for their personal and professional growth.
I asked ChatGPT how our youth can benefit from technology and mentors, and this is the response I received:
"In the digital age, mentors are essential in guiding young individuals through the complexities of online platforms, fostering digital literacy, and promoting responsible online behavior. They address issues such as cyberbullying, privacy concerns, and the impact of social media on mental health.
Technology offers diverse career possibilities, but many youth may feel uncertain about their paths. Mentors provide valuable insights, share experiences, and offer guidance on pursuing tech careers, aiding youth in setting realistic goals and informed decisions.
The constant connectivity of the digital era can impact the emotional well-being of youth. Mentors offer a compassionate presence, providing support in navigating online challenges, social comparison, and the pressure to curate a digital persona. Open communication helps develop resilience and a healthy perspective.
Mentors play a key role in building confidence and leadership skills, essential attributes in the fast-paced tech industry. Through encouragement, positive reinforcement, and constructive feedback, mentors empower youth to thrive in a technology-driven world."
I must agree. I have to go, something is dinging/ringing/buzzing….
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Jackie S. Johnson
Executive Director
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MEET MADISON AND JOEY!
Madison Wenner and Joey are one of our matches in the St. Cloud School District! They have been matched since March 2023. They are a hybrid match that sometimes meets in person and sometimes meets virtually, as Madison currently lives in Montana for college.
Madison and Joey love to play games and talk during their time together! Their favorites are learning games and ‘Guess Who’ when they meet in person. When they meet virtually, Madison and Joey love to catch up and hear about all the fun things happening in each other’s lives. They’ve had a great 10 months together, and we’re excited to see what they’ll be up to next!
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Brett Watercott and Lamar are!
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THANK YOU, ATS!
This month’s Partner Spotlight goes to ATS! ATS has been supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters through yearly donations for more than 20 years. Thanks to their continued support, our program coordinators are able to continue to find just the right match for our waiting Littles, as well as host a variety of fun and engaging activities for our matches each month. Thank you, ATS, for your continued support of local kids! (Fun fact - the BBBS of Central Minnesota office in St. Cloud is located in ATS' former headquarters!)
We are grateful to all our Community Partners. Check out these lists, and the next time you are at that business or organization, please thank them for standing with kids!
BBBS of Central Minnesota is always looking for businesses to host or sponsor match activities. If you or your business are willing to sponsor or host a match activity, contact Emily Steinmetz at 320-258-4515 or [email protected].
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THE HUSKIES' NO. 1 FANS
This past fall, the St. Cloud State Men's Basketball team hosted a shootaround and skills clinic for our matches. Last week, our matches got to watch their favorite players in action as the Huskies took on Concordia-St. Paul in Halenbeck Hall! Everyone had a great time cheering SCSU to an 86-56 win and watching their favorite players perform on the court - and a few Littles took advantage of front-row seats to enjoy all the action!
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SPORTS BUDDIES GAME NIGHT
The Sports Buddies matches got out of the cold and came together for a game night in January! This marked the first hangout for our newest Sports Buddies match, and everyone had fun getting to know one another and letting their competitive sides show. Thanks to Scheels for sponsoring our Sports Buddies initiative!
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ALL ABOUT DEZURIK
The BIG Partners mentees had the opportunity to tour DeZURIK in Sartell. While at the facility, they were able to meet the DeZURIK team, compete in activities showcasing the plug valve product, and learn about career opportunities in the water and wastewater industry. The activity showcased just some of the ways these high school students can find careers right here in Central Minnesota.
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THE GREAT ESCAPE
A trip to Blacklight Adventures is always one of the most popular match activities of the year, and 2024 was no exception! A full group of Bigs and Littles went through two different escape rooms, and both groups escaped! They also had the chance to play laser tag this year, which was a big hit with everyone. Thank you to BBBS board member Curran Poganski for helping to sponsor this activity!
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THINKING ABOUT THE FUTURE
Our matches had the opportunity to learn more about the auto body and electrical programs at St. Cloud Technical & Community College! Littles got to learn more about what a career in either auto or electrical would look like in the future. The group got a tour of both programs, tried airbrush painting, and even got to have a race with piping and string materials. A few matches stayed after the event ended to get a more in-depth look at the electrical construction program.
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GROWING UP BIG NOMINATIONS OPEN
Nominations are open now for the 2024 Growing Up Big Award. This award is given annually to a former Little or High School Big from BBBS of Central Minnesota who is now an adult and doing great things in their community. The award honors BriAnna Kruzel, a former Little and High School Big who passed away unexpectedly in 2013. Nominations for the award are due Sunday, Feb. 25 - click here to nominate a deserving individual.
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BIGS ON CAMPUS NEEDS YOUR HELP
Have you ever thought about being a Big? Do you know someone who would be a great Big? BBBS of Central Minnesota is looking for mentors to be a part of the Bigs on Campus initiative at St. Cloud State, St. Cloud Tech & Community College, and the College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's University. Meet with your mentee twice a month for an hour at a time at SCSU, SCTCC, or CSB/SJU and help them get accustomed to life on a college campus! Click here for more information or to sign up to be part of the Bigs on Campus program!
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RANDOM ACT OF KINDNESS MONTH
February is Random Act of Kindness Month at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Minnesota, and we want to know if you're the recipient of one of those kind acts! In partnership with the Bounce Back Project, our Bigs and Littles will be getting kindness cards to hand out in the month of February when they do a good deed for a friend, neighbor, or stranger. We'd love to hear if you get one of the kindness cards! Email [email protected] and let us know what the kind act was, then click here to learn more about the Bounce Back Project!
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SUPPORT BBBS WHEN YOU SHOP!
Every time you shop, your spare change can help to support local youth! When you sign up today to donate on the BBBS of Central Minnesota website, you can round up every purchase on the credit card of your choosing. Every time you swipe that card, the total is rounded up to the nearest dollar - and that extra change stays right here in Central Minnesota! Your extra change could make a BIG difference to local youth - give it a try!
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Khaldoun Ahmad, Daine Billmark, Jenna Binsfeld, Debbie Clausen, Patty Funk (Secretary), Melinda Gau, Isaih Handy, Lee Hurd, Courtney Kunkel (Treasurer), Bill Martin-Chaffee (DEI Officer), Lori Mohs, Mardi Noyes, Emmanuel Oppong, Chris Owen, Curran Poganski, Jason Primus, Rick Roehl (Vice Pres.),
Alex Schoephoerster (President), Christie Schulte, and Vicky Welty (Past Pres.).
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Barb Anderson, Mimi Bitzan, Mark Coborn, Joe Francis, Keith Julson, Lori Kloos, Andy Knoblauch,
Shelly Bauerly Kopel, John Mahowald, Mike Markman, Gary Marsden, Vince Mohs, Steve Sauer,
Kurt Scepaniak, Joyce Schlough, John Schnettler, Peter Spaniol, Eric Stalboerger, Perian Stavrum,
Mark Traut, Joan Vincent, Bob Walter, and Don Watkins.
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